Scientist (m/f/d) in the field of Assessment of N-Emissions in Field Vegetable Cultivation

The Leibniz Institute of Vegetable and Ornamental Crops (IGZ) contributes to an improved understanding of plant systems and the development of sustainable and resilient horticulture. The institute conducts research at the interface of plants, humans, and the environment, addressing systemic and global challenges such as biodiversity loss, climate change, urbanization, and malnutrition. Scientifically grounded recommendations are provided for healthy agricultural food systems and sustainable interactions with the environment. IGZ integrates a wide range of scientific disciplines, with staff from diverse backgrounds collaborating in national and international research partnerships. Located in Großbeeren near Potsdam, the institute is a member of the Leibniz Association.

In the programme area "Next-Generation Horticultural Systems" (HORTSYS) we are looking for an enthusiastic and ambitious:

Scientist (m/f/d) in the field of Assessment of N-Emissions in Field Vegetable Cultivation

Reference number: 16/2024/4

Employment will be initially until 31.03.2027. The salary will be based on qualification and research experience according to the wage agreement TV-L, salary domain east, up to pay scale 13, full time.

The aim of the BMEL-funded project NemGem ("Reduction of nitrous oxide and ammonia emissions through processing of crop residues in vegetable cultivation") is to reduce nitrous oxide (N2O) and ammonia (NH3) emissions in field vegetable cultivation by upgrading and reintroducing cabbage crop residues into field vegetable cultivation through composting, ensiling, or fermentation. In addition, the project will evaluate the yield effectiveness and nitrogen efficiency of the differently processed cabbage crop residues. The tasks include conducting field experiments, implementing various fertilization strategies, and investigating them. Measurements of nitrous oxide and ammonia emissions, as well as analysis of soil samples and plant biomass, will be conducted. The results will contribute to the calculation of nitrogen efficiency and life cycle assessment, and support the evaluation of nitrogen emission reduction measures.

Tasks include

• planning and conducting field trials at the IGZ and with two practice partners
• measurements of gaseous nitrogen emissions in field experiments using the static chamber method and analysis on a gas chromatograph and multi-gas sensor
• coordination of soil sample collection and analysis
• planning, management, and supervision of experimental work
• collaboration with other research partners to achieve project goals
• statistical analysis of trial results
• writing scientific publications and articles in relevant practice journals
• presenting results to the project consortium, scientific audience and horticultural practicians
• supervision of students and scientific assistants

We are looking for candidates with

• a Master or Diploma degree in agricultural sciences, horticulture, biology, environmental protection, or related fields, preferably with a PhD
• experience in nitrogen dynamics in soil-plant systems in field conditions
• experience in measuring gas fluxes
• experience in scientific supervision or guidance of bachelor's, master's, or PhD students
• proven track record of publication in peer-reviewed journals
• fluent in English, both written and spoken
• very good knowledge of German or willingness to learn German (B2 level)

We offer

• an attractive workplace at a modern research institute for horticultural sciences
• a pleasant and appreciative working atmosphere
• integration into a successful and dedicated team
• flexible and family-friendly working hours and the possibility of remote work (up to 50% of working time)
• subsidy for the company ticket for local public transport or the Germany ticket

For more information about IGZ, please visit www.igzev.de. For inquiries, please contact Dr. André Sradnick (033701 78 362; sradnick(at)igzev.de).

We encourage a healthy work-life balance. The IGZ attaches great importance to equal opportunities. Applicants with disabilities will be given preference in case of equal qualifications. The IGZ embraces diversity in its workforce, and welcomes applications from all qualified candidates, irrespective of age, gender, sexual orientation, religion, world view, disability and belief or ethnic origin.

We prefer to receive applications, including a motivation letter, your CV, copies of relevant certificates, and the names and addresses of two references by email to bewerbung(at)igzev.de in pdf format by 10^th of July 2024. Our postal address is: Personalbüro, Leibniz-Institute of Vegetable and Ornamental Crops, Theodor-Echtermeyer-Weg 1, D-14979 Großbeeren.