Research Associate (Biology/Agricultural Sciences) | Bachelor oder Diplomingenieurin / Diplomingenieur (FH) (w/m/d)

Julius Kühn-Institut Bundesforschungsinstitut für Kulturpflanzen

Dossenheim, Baden-Württemberg, Deutschland
Published May 7, 2026
Full-time
Fixed-term

Job Summary

The Julius Kühn-Institut (JKI) is seeking a dedicated Research Associate to join the Institute for Plant Protection in Fruit Crops and Viticulture in Dossenheim. In this role, you will play a critical part in researching invasive insect vectors, specifically the reed glass-winged cicada, and the pathogens they transmit. Your day-to-day responsibilities will include planning and conducting laboratory and field experiments, rearing insect populations, performing Electropenetrography (EPG) to analyze feeding behavior, and utilizing molecular biological methods like qPCR for pathogen detection. You will also develop and evaluate innovative vibration-based mating disruption systems. This position is ideal for a candidate with a strong background in biology or agricultural sciences who is passionate about sustainable plant protection and climate change research. You will work in an international environment, contributing to scientific publications and presenting findings. This is a fixed-term full-time position offering a dynamic opportunity to contribute to high-impact agricultural research within a leading federal research institute.

Required Skills

Education

Bachelor's degree or University of Applied Sciences degree (Diplom FH) in Biology, Agricultural Sciences, Environmental Sciences, Horticulture, or a related field.

Experience

  • Professional experience in biology, agricultural sciences, or related fields
  • Experience with chemical-ecological methods and insect behavioral bioassays
  • Experience with molecular biological pathogen detection methods such as qPCR
  • Proficiency in data evaluation and graphical representation of research results
  • Familiarity with EPG techniques or willingness to undergo specialized training

Languages

German (Fluent)English (Fluent)

Additional

  • Valid Class B driver's license (III) required. Must be willing to travel for field work. Position is subject to a fixed-term contract until December 31, 2029. Must be able to work within the German public service pay scale (TVöD E 10).