At the Research Institute for Farm Animal Biology (FBN), we strive to advance sustainable livestock farming in a globalized world. Our research focuses on enhancing resource efficiency while addressing both local and global environmental and climate impacts. We prioritize animal welfare, health, and the safety of food derived from livestock.

FBN is renowned for its innovative and multidisciplinary approach supported by a modern research infrastructure and international collaboration. Settled on a green, natural campus just a short drive from the vibrant coastal city of Rostock, FBN offers an inspiring setting for impactful research dedicated to a sustainable future in agriculture

The *Nutritional Biochemistry* working group has a vacancy for a

# **PhD position (m/f/d)**

**- ** **subject to grant approval -**

**Start date**
01.04.2026

**Working hours**
Half-time

**Limitation**
36 months

**Remuneration**
Pay group 13 TV-L (65 %)

**Tender number**
2026-02

### **What to expect:**

- Collaboration and qualification (PhD) within the project ‘Sustainable Agrivoltaic Grazing Ecosystem: Agroecological Synergies through Ruminant Integration for Enhanced Environmental and Economic Benefits’ in close cooperation with the project partner University of Potsdam
- Conducting an animal experiment with sheep in photovoltaic systems as part of a European consortium
- Monitoring animal health and welfare
- Analysis of biodiversity, microclimate and nutritional value of the feed
- Testing a novel pasture management system (virtual fencing)
- Data evaluation and statistical analyses
- Presentations at conferences
- Writing publications, manuscripts and reports

### **What to bring:**

- Master’s degree in agricultural science, veterinary medicine or a comparable discipline
- Good knowledge in animal physiology, feed science and taxonomic identification of plants in extensive grasslands
- Willingness to perform field work in photovoltaic systems and to work with climate sensors
- Practical experience in working with ruminants
- Experience in using Office, and willingness to learn R and QGIS
- Sense of responsibility, operational readiness, and physical resilience
- Driver's license
- Good written and spoken German and very good written and spoken English

### **What we offer:**

At FBN, you will be welcomed by a dedicated, multidisciplinary team. We will support you with a structured onboarding. We will also help you with any questions you may have regarding your arrival in the Rostock region. We also offer our employees

- an additional company pension (VBL),
- 30 days annual leave,
- flexible working hours and
- mobile working after finishing the work with animals.

The compatibility of work and family life is important to us at FBN, which is why we stand out for our certified family friendliness. Employees with children also find optimal working conditions thanks to our cooperation with the local kindergarten and parent-child rooms.

If you would like to become part of our team, we look forward to receiving your application. As equal opportunities and diversity are important components of our HR policy, we welcome applicants from all backgrounds.

For further information, please contact:

**Dr. Franziska Koch**
**koch@fbn-dummerstorf.de**
**Tel. 038208 68 870**

**Dr. Jessica Schwerdtfeger**
**schwerdtfeger@fbn-dummerstorf.de**
**Tel. 038208 68 683**

Please send applications (single pdf-file preferred), including a motivation letter, detailed CV, copies of diplomas and certificates, and the contact information of references to:

### personal@fbn-dummerstorf.de

Please quote the job number **2026-02** in your application.

Finally, it should be noted that we are not allowed to reimburse application or travel expenses in connection with the application. By submitting your application, you consent to the processing of your personal data for the purpose of the application procedure.

For more information about the FBN, please visit us online:

[\*\*www.fbn-dummerstorf.de](http://www.fbn-dummerstorf.de).\*\*