Leibniz Institute of Plant Genetics and Crop Plant Research (IPK), Gatersleben

The research group Resources Genetics and Reproduction is dedicated to unlocking beneficial genes from crop wild relative species (CWR), currently conserved in the genebank. The long-term goal is to identify genes that will improve the resilience and sustainability of our cereal crops.

As climate change accelerates the emergence of novel biotic and abiotic stresses, the reliance on narrow elite germplasm pools poses an increasing risk to sustainable barley production. Despite clear recognition of the value of CWRs, introgression remains technically difficult, slow, and resource-intensive, due to strong reproductive barriers.

The aim of this project will be the characterization and mobilization of unique genetic diversity from Hordeum Bulbosum, a perennial relative of Barley. Among wild Hordeum species, Hordeum bulbosum occupies a unique position as the only non-vulgare species from which stable introgressions into cultivated barley have been achieved. This PhD project will be dedicated to the exploration of novel genetic tools and resources that could facilitate further genetic exchange among Hordeums.

Your tasks:

• Phenotypic characterization of a global collection of Hordeum Bulbosum.
• Development of crossing protocols for hybridization.
• Cytogenetic analysis of Bulbosum and barley.
• Generate and analyze whole genome sequencing data.
• Analysis, publication, and presentation of research results.
• Become a champion of Hordeum diversity.

Your qualifications and skills:

• You hold a MSc degree (or equivalent) in biology, biochemistry, crop science or a related field.
• Practical experience in molecular biology is strongly desirable.
• You have experience in molecular biological and/ or biochemical techniques, esp. cytogenetic and PCR.
• Basics in bioinformatics and/or cytogenetic skills are of advantage.
• You have problem solving skills.
• You own the ability to conduct independent scientific research and collaborate in an interdisciplinary research environment.

You fit to us:

• If you enjoy working with plants in an interdisciplinary team.
• If you have strong scientific curiosity and motivation.
• If you are passionate to shape a climate-just future of agriculture.

We offer you:

• The opportunity to work in a world-class research center with state-of-the-art facilities and scientists from all over the world.
• A collegial working atmosphere.
• A PhD position for 3 years, starting earliest by 01.04.2026.
• A gross salary up to 65% E13 TV-L.

If you need further information, please feel free to contact Dr. Anna Backhaus Tel.: +49 (0) 39482 5202

What you need to know:

For us, your qualifications and strengths count. Therefore, everyone is welcome – independent of gender, origin, age, or disability. The IPK is striving to increase the proportion of women in sectors where they are underrepresented and, therefore, explicitly encourages qualified women to apply. Our institute has been certified for Career and Family ("berufundfamilie”), and we offer family-friendly working conditions and flexible working hours. The IPK has set a goal to employ more people with disabilities. Qualified applicants with a disability will be given preference.

Your application:

We are looking forward to receiving your online-application (http://www.ipk-gatersleben.de/en/job-offers/) by 11.02.2026. If you have questions or require more information, please contact Kerstin Schweigert (jobs(at)ipk-gatersleben.de). Please indicate the reference number 04/01/26 in your correspondence. Foreign qualifications must carry out an equivalence test in Germany, which is subject to a fee. This must be presented in the event of later hiring: https://zab.kmk.org/en/statement-comparability