Professorship in Agrobioinformatics at Justus Liebig University Giessen, Germany
Researchers specializing in bioinformatics, agricultural genomics, computational biology, and data science now have an excellent opportunity to advance their academic careers in Germany. The Faculty of Agricultural Sciences, Nutritional Sciences and Environmental Management at Justus Liebig University Giessen (JLU) is inviting applications for a W3 Professorship in Agrobioinformatics. The appointment is expected to begin on 1 March 2027, or as soon as possible thereafter.
This prestigious professorship is part of the university’s strategic investment in data science and applied informatics under Germany’s Excellence Strategy, providing an outstanding platform for internationally recognized researchers to lead innovative research and teaching. The W3 Professorship in Agrobioinformatics at Justus Liebig University Giessen is an outstanding opportunity for internationally recognized researchers working at the intersection of bioinformatics, genomics, agriculture, and data science. By joining JLU, the successful candidate will play a key role in advancing innovative research on agricultural biodiversity, genome analysis, and computational biology while helping shape the future of interdisciplinary education through the university’s new English-language Master’s programme.
With access to world-class research collaborations, participation in major initiatives such as the IRTG 2843 “Accelerating Crop Genetic Gain”, and opportunities to contribute to Germany’s Excellence Strategy, this position offers an exceptional platform for academic leadership. Researchers who meet the eligibility requirements are encouraged to submit their applications before the 31 July 2026 deadline.
Position Overview
| Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Position | W3 Professor |
| Field | Agrobioinformatics |
| Institution | Justus Liebig University Giessen (JLU) |
| Faculty | Agricultural Sciences, Nutritional Sciences and Environmental Management |
| Country | Germany |
| Employment Type | W3 Professorship |
| Expected Start Date | 1 March 2027 or earliest possible thereafter |
| Application Deadline | 31 July 2026 |
| Reference Number | 9-15/26 |
About the Position
The W3 Professorship has been established to strengthen JLU’s university-wide research priority in Agricultural Systems and Resources.
The successful candidate will contribute to interdisciplinary research in bioinformatics, agricultural genomics, biodiversity, and computational biology, while collaborating with experts across multiple scientific disciplines.
The professor is also expected to engage actively with the Center for Applied Computer and Data Science (ZAD) and contribute to collaborative research initiatives throughout the university.
Research Focus
The university is seeking a scientist whose research addresses methodological challenges in modern agricultural bioinformatics.
Key research areas include:
- Agrobioinformatics
- Agricultural genomics
- Genome assembly
- Pan-genome analysis
- Genome structure
- Gene regulation
- Agricultural biodiversity
- Crop genetics
- Livestock genomics
- Computational biology
- Data science
- Bioinformatics algorithms
- Trait discovery
- Genomic data analysis
Research should contribute to improving the understanding of genome function and biodiversity in economically important crop and livestock species.
Collaboration and Research Opportunities
The successful professor will be expected to participate actively in interdisciplinary research projects at both faculty and university levels.
Important collaborative opportunities include:
- Center for Applied Computer and Data Science (ZAD)
- Agricultural Systems and Resources research initiative
- International Research Training Group (IRTG 2843) “Accelerating Crop Genetic Gain”
- National and international collaborative research projects
- Partnerships with plant breeding and crop diversity researchers
The university strongly encourages the development of new collaborative research initiatives with both internal and external partners.
Teaching Responsibilities
The appointed professor will contribute to teaching across Bachelor’s and Master’s programmes within the Faculty.
Responsibilities include:
- Teaching undergraduate courses.
- Teaching postgraduate courses.
- Supporting students from multiple faculties.
- Contributing to curriculum development.
- Supervising Bachelor’s and Master’s theses.
- Participating in academic administration.
The successful candidate is also encouraged to play a leading role in the university’s new English-language Master’s programme in Agrobioinformatics.
Teaching in English is required, while proficient German language skills are also expected.
Candidate Profile
The University seeks an internationally recognized researcher with expertise in agricultural bioinformatics.
Competitive applicants should demonstrate:
- Internationally recognized research excellence.
- High-impact scientific publications.
- Strong expertise in bioinformatics.
- Experience in agricultural genomics.
- Successful acquisition of competitive research funding.
- Excellent teaching abilities.
- Commitment to interdisciplinary collaboration.
Practical collaborations with fields such as plant breeding, crop genetics, and agricultural biodiversity are considered highly desirable.
Eligibility Requirements
Applicants should possess:
- A completed university degree.
- An outstanding doctoral degree.
- A habilitation or equivalent academic achievements.
- Internationally recognized publications in bioinformatics or a related discipline.
- Proven teaching competence.
- Experience managing externally funded research projects.
Experience securing grants from organizations such as:
- German Research Foundation (DFG)
- German Federal Ministry of Research, Technology and Space (BMFTR)
- European Union (EU)
will be considered an advantage.
International Outlook
JLU places strong emphasis on international collaboration.
The successful professor is expected to:
- Strengthen global research partnerships.
- Expand international academic networks.
- Collaborate with researchers worldwide.
- Support internationalization across the faculty.
Commitment to Equality and Diversity
Justus Liebig University Giessen welcomes applications from qualified candidates regardless of:
- Gender
- Nationality
- Ethnic or social background
- Disability
- Religion
- Age
- Sexual orientation or identity
The university strongly encourages applications from women and gives preference to equally qualified applicants with disabilities.
JLU is also recognized as a family-friendly university.
Required Qualifications at a Glance
Applicants should demonstrate:
- Expertise in agrobioinformatics.
- Strong publication record.
- Experience with genomic data analysis.
- Ability to teach in English.
- Proficiency in German.
- Success in securing research funding.
- Leadership in interdisciplinary research.
Important Dates
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Application Deadline | 31 July 2026 |
| Expected Appointment | 1 March 2027 |
Applicants are encouraged to submit complete applications well before the deadline.
How to Apply
We strongly recommend candidates to refer to our fact sheet on application procedures. Please send your application with the required documents via online form to the President of Justus Liebig University Giessen by July 31st, 2026, quoting the reference number 9-15/26.
Candidates should include all required application documents and quote the following reference number: Reference: 9-15/26
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What position is available?
Justus Liebig University Giessen is recruiting a W3 Professor in Agrobioinformatics within the Faculty of Agricultural Sciences, Nutritional Sciences and Environmental Management.
What research areas are emphasized?
The professorship focuses on agricultural bioinformatics, genome assembly, pan-genome analysis, gene regulation, biodiversity assessment, computational biology, and genomic data analysis.
Is this a permanent professorship?
Yes. The position is advertised as a W3 Professorship, which is one of the highest academic appointments within the German university system.
Is English required?
Yes. The successful candidate must be able to teach in English. In addition, proficient knowledge of German is expected.
What qualifications are required?
Applicants should hold a university degree, an outstanding doctorate, and a habilitation or equivalent academic achievements, together with internationally recognized research publications in bioinformatics or a related field.
What teaching responsibilities are included?
The professor will teach in Bachelor’s and Master’s programmes, supervise student research projects, contribute to curriculum development, and support the new English-language Master’s programme in Agrobioinformatics.
Is experience obtaining research funding important?
Yes. Applicants should demonstrate success in securing competitive external funding, preferably from organizations such as the DFG, BMFTR, or the European Union.
What collaborative opportunities are available?
The successful candidate will collaborate with the Center for Applied Computer and Data Science (ZAD), participate in the IRTG 2843 “Accelerating Crop Genetic Gain”, and contribute to interdisciplinary research initiatives across JLU.
When is the application deadline?
Applications must be submitted online by 31 July 2026.
Why is this opportunity significant?
This W3 Professorship combines leadership in one of the fastest-growing areas of agricultural research with access to Germany’s Excellence Strategy initiatives, advanced computational research infrastructure, and extensive international collaboration opportunities.
Discover more from Agristok
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.