FOR5903

We invite applications for Doctoral Researcher for a fixed term-position for four years to be filled by 30 March 2026

Description

The collaborative DFG-funded Research Unit FOR5903 “Sustainable Rurbanity – Resources, Society, and Regulatory Systems” has a wide interdisciplinary and international scope, covering diverse dimensions of global urbanisation processes. In the context of this project, a doctoral position is available addressing the research area “RurbanFoodWaste – Sustainability potential of food waste as livestock feed in Indian rurban contexts” which integrates Human Geography with Animal Sciences perspectives. The position cannot be shared. The registration for Doctoral Studies will be at a University in Germany with the entry criteria defined by them (CGPA above 3 out of 4 or equivalent). The candidate must fulfil all the assessment and evaluation matrices by the University they register for studies. Primary place of employment is Ashoka Trust for Research in Ecology and the Environment (ATREE), with extended field work in and around Bengaluru.

Your tasks

Reviewing and analyzing relevant literature,
Preparing, conducting and coordinating social science field work on food waste flows and revalorisation in Bengaluru, India, using a wide methodological portfolio,
Correspondence and close cooperation with academic partners in India and Germany,
Participation in project-related seminars and workshops, and in international conferences by presenting own results,
Analysis of collected data and preparation of scientific articles,
General project management tasks incl. some administration.

Requirements

Completed university post-graduate degree in geography, development studies, social sciences, economics, agricultural sciences or related fields,
Fluency in local language (Kannada) and English,
Excellent communication skills,
Ability and willingness to work in a dedicated interdisciplinary team with an international and intercultural background,
Willingness to travel / conduct field work in India for several months per year,
Experience in qualitative and/or quantitative social science research (incl. data collection and evaluation),
Desirable: Previous experience with field work,
Desirable: Knowledge of theoretical approaches to food systems, value chains, circular economy and/or livelihoods.

We offer you

A challenging, diverse and interesting job in an interdisciplinary research environment,
The possibility of pursuing a PhD with close supervision and integration into scientific networks,
Attractive, flexible working conditions that allow you to reconcile family responsibilities and professional obligations,
An interdisciplinary and committed team to which you can contribute your ideas,
A dynamic working environment with room for personal initiative,
A diverse and needs-oriented range of training opportunities at ATREE and other partner institutions.

For further information please refer to the project website www.uni-kassel.de/go/for-5903

or contact Prof. Dr. Soubadra Devy (she/her) (E-Mail: soubadra@atree.org).

We look forward to your application!

Please send your application (cover letter, CV, certificates, references incl. Contact details) by e-mail (in a single PDF file) quoting reference number FOR5903 to soubadra@atree.org

The closing date for applications is 8 March 2026

ATREE values and promotes the diversity of people and is actively committed to equal opportunities. This self-image is decisive for all selection procedures. Severely disabled applicants will be given preferential consideration if they are equally qualified.

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