The Excellence Cluster Future Forests at the University of Freiburg 
invites applications for a *PhD position in Functional Tree Genetics & 
Genome Editing* (75%, TV-L 13), starting 1 May 2026.

The position is limited to 3.5 years. The application deadline is 2 
March 2026.

The project aims to establish CRISPR/Cas-based genome editing in poplar 
to causally dissect the role of epigenetic regulation in stress 
resilience and stress memory under climate change scenarios. By 
combining genome editing, epigenome profiling, and quantitative stress 
phenotyping, we seek to identify predictive molecular markers of tree 
resilience.

The PhD candidate will:

  * Establish CRISPR/Cas genome editing in poplar

  * Generate and characterize mutants of epigenetic regulators

  * Perform stress priming-challenge-recovery assays (drought × heat ×
    biotic cues)

  * Conduct molecular analyses (DNA methylation, chromatin marks,
    transcriptomics, hormone responses)

  * Contribute to publications, conferences, and cluster activities

The position offers an interdisciplinary training environment bridging 
molecular plant physiology, forest genetics, and environmental 
signalling within the Excellence Cluster Future Forests, an 
internationally visible research center supported by the German Research 
Foundation.

Applicants should hold an M.Sc. (or equivalent) in plant sciences, 
molecular biology, biotechnology, forest sciences, or a related field, 
with strong interest or experience in functional genetics or genome 
editing. Experience working with poplar is advantageous. Excellent 
English skills are required.

The position includes structured doctoral training, dedicated project 
and career development funding, conference participation, and a 
collaborative, inclusive research environment.

Applications (cover letter outlining motivation and qualifications, CV, 
transcripts, and two references) must be submitted via the University of 
Freiburg application portal by 2 March 2026:

https://uni-freiburg.de/en/job/00004838/

For further information, please contact Jürgen Kleine-Vehn 
(juergen.kleine-vehn@biologie.uni-freiburg.de).

katrin.heer@forgen.uni-freiburg.de

(to subscribe/unsubscribe the EvolDir send mail to
golding@mcmaster.ca)