Research Group Leader*in (f,m,div) Open Field Horticultural Systems

03.12.2024

Research Group Leader (f,m,div) in Open Field Horticultural Systems

Leibniz Institute of Vegetable and Ornamental Crops (IGZ), Großbeeren

With its work, the Leibniz Institute of Vegetable and Ornamental Crops (IGZ) contributes to a better understanding of plant systems and thus to the development of sustainable and resilient horticulture. The IGZ conducts research at the interface between plants, humans and the environment. In doing so, we address systemic and global challenges such as biodiversity loss, climate change, urbanization and malnutrition. We provide scientifically sound recommendations for healthy agri-food systems and sustainable interactions with the environment. The IGZ brings together a broad spectrum of scientific disciplines. Employees with different backgrounds conduct research in national and international research co-operations.

The research group Open Field Horticultural Systems focuses on the development of innovative crop and soil management strategies for the sustainable use of resources and for adaptation to climate change. The research approach ranges from basic research on pot, plot and field scales to applied research for transfer into horticultural and agricultural practice. The group provides new technological and biobased solutions as well as software-based tools to optimise productivity, nutrient management and resource use efficiency. Thereby it contributes to the IGZ missions “Resource-Efficient Agrifood Systems” and “Climate Change”. Mathematical models are used to analyse main and sub-processes in detail and transfer our know-how into practice, e.g., via model-based decision support systems.

Due to the imminent retirement of the current research group leader, we are looking for an enthusiastic and ambitious

Research Group Leader (f,m,div)

in Open Field Horticultural Systems

Reference number: 27/2024/4

Employment will be initially for two years. A permanent position is being pursued upon a satisfactory evaluation of your performance. The salary will be based on qualification and research experience according to TV-L, salary domain east, up to pay scale 14, full time. The position is suitable for part-time work for at least 32 hours per week. IGZ will provide mentoring, leadership development and suitable resources to lead this research group and develop their own scientific career as well as that of their group members.

Tasks include

• strategic development of a research program in open field horticultural systems that contributes to the IGZ missions
• independent grant acquisition for scientific research projects
• publication of research output in international peer-reviewed Q1 journals
• supervision and support of Bachelor’s, Master’s and PhD students, postdoctoral researchers and technicians
• knowledge transfer to practitioners on resource management in vegetable crops
• maintaining an active network with stakeholders relevant to horticulture in Germany and abroad
• project design, budget management, progress reporting, personnel and data management
• contribution to research group leader meetings, strategic development and outreach activities at IGZ

We are looking for candidates with

• a PhD degree in horticulture or related fields with emphasis on horticultural or agricultural production systems
• at least three years of postdoctoral research experience in horticultural sciences
• a proven track record in obtaining third party funding for research projects
• a very good scientific publication record in the field of horticultural sciences
• experience with (coordinating) collaborative research projects with practitioners in the horticultural industry
• a proven track record in supervising Bachelor’s, Master’s and PhD students or other personnel
• very good proficiency in English (both oral and written)
• very good proficiently in the German language (C1 level or higher)

We offer

• an inspiring research environment, including state-of-the art research facilities for horticultural sciences in its full breadth
• support to further develop your leadership and mentoring qualities as well as language courses
• a place of employment located close to the cities of Potsdam and Berlin
• flexible and family-friendly working hours and the option of remote work (up to 50% of working time)
• subsidy for a company public transportation ticket or a Germany-wide travel ticket

Further information about the IGZ and the research group Open Field Horticultural Systems can be found on the Internet at www.igzev.de. For questions, please contact the scientific director: Prof. Nicole van Dam (vandam(at)igzev.de; phone: +49-33701 - 78 105).

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. In an effort to increase the proportion of female employees in this area, we specifically urge women scientists to apply for the position.

To apply to this position, send a concise and specific motivation letter for this position plus a research statement (1 A4 max) specifying your vision to further develop and lead this research group aligned with the research missions of IGZ. Also send your CV, names of two references**,** and copies of academic certificates. We prefer to receive applications by email to bewerbung(at)igzev.de in pdf format by 05.01.2025. Our postal address is: Leibniz-Institute for Vegetable and Ornamental Crops, Theodor-Echtermeyer-Weg 1, D-14979 Großbeeren.