Full Professor Position: Plant-Soil Interactions – University of Hohenheim, Germany
Quick Overview
The University of Hohenheim is seeking a Full Professor (W3) of Plant-Soil Interactions to lead research and teaching in plant nutrition and sustainable agricultural systems. The position offers a tenured appointment, participation in the prestigious TERRA Cluster of Excellence, and the opportunity to shape the future of agricultural research at one of Europe’s top agricultural universities.
Key Details
| Position | Full Professor (W3) |
| Field | Plant-Soil Interactions |
| Institution | University of Hohenheim |
| Location | Stuttgart, Germany |
| Employment Type | Tenured |
| Start Date | April 1, 2028 |
| Deadline | September 15, 2026 |
| Qualification | PhD in Plant Science, Soil Science, Agronomy, or related field |
| Language | German and English (or willingness to learn German) |
| Experience | Habilitation or equivalent research and teaching record |
About the Position
The successful candidate will lead research and teaching in practice-oriented agricultural sciences, with a strong emphasis on plant nutrition and sustainable farming systems. The university is particularly interested in applicants whose work contributes to improving plant and soil health through innovative agricultural practices.
Research areas may include:
- Plant nutrition and soil health
- Root–soil interactions
- Sustainable fertilization strategies
- Crop production systems
- Agricultural sustainability and climate-resilient agriculture
Research Expectations
The appointed professor will be expected to develop an internationally competitive research programme.
Key responsibilities include:
- Conducting greenhouse experiments and leading field trials
- Publishing in high-impact international journals
- Securing competitive third-party research funding
- Supervising doctoral and postdoctoral researchers
- Contributing to interdisciplinary scientific initiatives
- Active participation in the TERRA Cluster of Excellence
TERRA Cluster of Excellence
A major responsibility will be active participation in the TERRA – Terrestrial Geo-Biosphere Interactions in a Changing World Cluster of Excellence. This interdisciplinary research initiative investigates how terrestrial ecosystems respond to environmental and climate change through collaboration across multiple scientific disciplines.
Teaching Responsibilities
Teaching forms an important part of this professorship.
Courses will cover:
- Plant nutrition and fertilization strategies
- Crop production and sustainable agriculture
- Practice-oriented agricultural sciences
Language: Courses will be taught in both German and English. International applicants are expected to acquire sufficient German language proficiency within a reasonable period after appointment.
Candidate Profile
The University of Hohenheim is looking for candidates who can demonstrate:
- Internationally recognized research achievements
- Strong publication record in leading scientific journals
- Success in obtaining competitive research funding
- Experience in interdisciplinary research
- Expertise in plant nutrition and soil science
- Capacity to supervise research students
- Commitment to high-quality university teaching
Eligibility Requirements
- Habilitation or equivalent academic qualification
- Outstanding research and teaching record
- Experience obtained through a Junior Professorship, Assistant Professorship, or equivalent academic career pathway
- The university follows the appointment criteria outlined in its official appointment guidelines
What They Offer
| Benefit | Details |
|---|---|
| Position | Full Professor (W3) – Tenured |
| Location | Stuttgart, Germany |
| Start Date | April 1, 2028 |
| Research | TERRA Cluster of Excellence participation |
| Teaching | German and English courses |
| Career | Attractive conditions for first-time full professors |
Application Documents
- Cover letter
- Statement of future research interests
- Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Academic transcripts and degree certificates
- Complete publication list
- List of third-party funded projects
- Teaching record and teaching evaluations
- Three key publications
Application Tips
- Review appointment guidelines – The university has specific appointment criteria.
- Prepare a strong research statement – Outline your future research directions.
- Highlight third-party funding – Success in securing competitive funding is essential.
- Show teaching excellence – Teaching evaluations and record are important.
- Submit complete application – Ensure all required documents are included.
- Apply online only – Through the university’s appointment portal.
How to Apply
Questions: Prof. Dr. Ludwig Hölzle – Ludwig.Hoelzle@uni-hohenheim.de
Frequently Asked Questions
- Is this a permanent position? Yes, this is a tenured W3 professorship. First-time full professor appointments may include a probationary period.
- What language skills are required? Teaching in German and English. International applicants must learn German after appointment.
- What qualifications are required? Habilitation or equivalent research and teaching record.
- What is the start date? April 1, 2028.
- When is the deadline? September 15, 2026.
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