Overview

In accordance with the The Competitive Hiring Process Code of Charles University, the Dean of the Faculty of Science of Charles University announces a competitive hiring process with a deadline for applications April 22, 2026

The Faculty of Science, Charles University, invites applications for a PhD position in soil–plant interactions under changing climatic conditions, focusing on soil organic matter dynamics under drought and elevated CO2. The PhD student will be based at the Institute for Environmental Studies, Faculty of Science, Charles University, Prague. The position is part of an ongoing research project under the supervision of Dr. Olga Vindušková (Assistant Professor).
We are seeking a motivated candidate with a strong interest in environmental research, soil carbon dynamics, and experimental approaches to climate change impacts on soils and plants.
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Responsibilities
  • Preparation of soil and plant samples and performing laboratory analyses using various methods
  • Establishment and maintenance of pot experiments in greenhouses and growth chambers
  • Work on scientific publications (4 publications required for PhD completion)
  • Presentation of results at lab meetings and national/international conferences
  • Participation in at least one international research stay of at least one month
Research methods will include especially:
  • Soil organic carbon (SOC) fractionation
  • Soil respiration measurements
  • Carbon isotope analyses
  • FTIR spectroscopy
  • Root and root exudate analyses
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Requirements
  • MSc degree (or equivalent) in soil science, ecology, environmental science, or a related field
  • Laboratory experience
  • Good command of English (sufficient for scientific literature and communication)
  • Positive attitude toward nature and environmental research
  • Independence, responsibility, and attention to detail
  • Ability to organize own experimental work
  • Teamwork and active communication of results
  • Basic knowledge of statistical analysis (e.g., R or equivalent)
  • Openness and motivation to apply for a student grant or external funding during the PhD
Additional advantages (not required but welcome):
  • Experience with soil organic matter analyses
  • Driving license (useful for fieldwork)
  • Sense of humor and positive attitude
  • Active hobbies or interests outside of work
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We Offer
  • 4-year full-time PhD position in Environmental Science (starting October 2026)
  • Financial support through a doctoral scholarship and employment within the research project
  • Option to start part-time (50–75%) from May 2026
  • Supportive and collaborative research environment
  • Engaging and meaningful research project in environmental science
  • Optional participation in teaching or supervising
  • Based at the Institute for Environmental Studies, Faculty of Science, Charles University, Prague, Benátská 2, located in the Botanical Garden of the Faculty of Science
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How to apply:
To apply, please include your CV and motivation letter.

Application Instructions

Application, which you can download here https://natur.cuni.cz/en/faculty/official-board/selection-procedures, with cover letter, curriculum vitae, list of publications, diplomas, research and teaching statement, must be send within 30 days from the announcement of the tender to the e-mail address: volnamista@natur.cuni.cz with subject “Výběrové řízení.”

If a candidate applies for more than one position, you must submit a separate application form for each selected position.

Candidates who progress to the second round of the selection procedure will be invited to an interview. The interview may be conducted by means of information and communication technology if justified, at the request of the candidate. The Committee may invite selected candidates to give a lecture to the academic community of the Faculty.

By sending your application, you agree that Charles University, Faculty of Science will process your personal data for the purpose of keeping records of job seekers in accordance with applicable laws.

Required Documents

  • structured CV
  • motivation letter

Job offer code: 202604-VP1-PřF-7500-014
Published: 2026-03-23
Starting date by agreement: Yes
Hours per week: 40
Duration: 3 years
Pay grade: VP1
Salary conditions: Starting salary from CZK 25,000 to CZK 30,000
Contract for an indefinite period: No
Work location: Prague

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