Leibniz University Hannover (LUH) offers outstanding working conditions in a vibrant academic environment nestled within one of Germany’s greenest urban centers. As part of its commitment to sustainable agriculture and innovative pest management, LUH’s Applied Entomology Group (Institute of Geobotany – Department of Phytomedicine) is now recruiting for a:
Scientific Assistant (Doctoral Position, Entomology)
Salary Group: TV-L 13, 65%
Start Date: As soon as possible
Contract Duration: Until July 31, 2028 (project-based)
This position is funded under the BMBF initiative “SME-innovative: Bioeconomy”, as part of the joint research project DHYNAmite. The goal: to develop drone-based hyperspectral detection of spider mite infestations and targeted biocontrol applications in open-field cucumber cultivation.
Your Role in the Project
The successful candidate will play a central part in a cutting-edge, interdisciplinary research effort combining entomology, remote sensing, AI-based image analysis, and practical agronomy. Responsibilities include:
- Maintaining breeding programs for pest insects, beneficial arthropods, and host plants.
- Conducting greenhouse, lab, and field experiments to observe and record infestation symptoms in cucumber crops.
- Building and validating an image database to support hyperspectral identification of pest populations.
- Investigating the impact of temperature variations on population dynamics and efficacy of predatory mites—essential for understanding future-proof pest control under climate change.
- Designing small-scale precision application trials to assess beneficial organism densities.
- Performing continuous literature reviews, writing project reports, and participating in workshops and scientific conferences.
What We’re Looking For
Ideal candidates will bring a balance of scientific curiosity and applied problem-solving. You should have:
- A completed university degree (Master or equivalent) in agriculture, horticulture, biology, or ecology, ideally with a strong entomology focus.
- Strong interest in technological applications in agriculture, such as drone usage, digital pest monitoring, and precision farming.
- Willingness to work in interdisciplinary teams involving academic researchers and industry partners.
Women, persons with disabilities, and candidates from underrepresented groups are strongly encouraged to apply. LUH is committed to equal opportunity hiring and the principles outlined in the Lower Saxony Equal Opportunities Act (NGG).
How to Apply
To apply, please submit the following documents by August 15, 2025:
- A cover letter outlining your motivation
- Your detailed CV
- Two academic references
Send your application (PDF format preferred) to:
Email: meyhoefer@ipp.uni-hannover.de
Or by post to:
Gottfried Wilhelm Leibniz University Hannover
Institute of Geobotany – Dept. of Phytomedicine – Applied Entomology
Attn: Prof. Dr. Rainer Meyhöfer
Herrenhäuser Str. 2, 30419 Hanover, GermanyContribute to Sustainable Agriculture and Climate-Resilient Pest Control:
This doctoral position at LUH offers the chance to be part of Germany’s growing innovation sector in sustainable agriculture and bioeconomy. Work hands-on with cutting-edge technology, help shape the future of plant protection, and contribute to resilient food systems. Data protection notice (GDPR): Data Collection Info for Applicants