Joint Junior Researcher Programme (Master’s Thesis)

Eligibility

This programme is for master’s students enrolled at the Technische Universität Dresden (TU Dresden). Master’s students enrolled at other universities are invited to visit the section Master’s Thesis Opportunity.

Objective

This initiative provides graduate students with the opportunity to write a master’s thesis under the guidance of supervisors at both UNU-FLORES and TU Dresden. Upon completion of the master’s thesis, successful candidates are expected to have developed deeper knowledge, understanding, and capabilities in the context of the study area and will disseminate the research results in a way that is beneficial for the research area and for their career.

The master’s thesis topics are developed together with professors at TU Dresden.

Criteria

The qualifications which will be considered in the application process include, but are not limited to, the following. The ideal candidate:

is currently pursuing a master’s degree at TU Dresden
has proven proficiency in oral and written English
is able to work within agreed timelines and to communicate clearly and effectively
is a good team player with strong interpersonal skills
demonstrates the ability to work in a multicultural environment with sensitivity and respect for diversity
works on a thesis topic that is related to the Resource Nexus
connects their work to ongoing projects

UNU is committed to diversity and inclusion within its workforce and encourages all candidates, irrespective of gender, nationality, religious and ethnic backgrounds, including persons living with disabilities to apply and become part of the organisation.

Duration

The successful candidate shall complete and submit the master’s thesis for evaluation within an agreed timeline of not more than six months with both supervisors.

Important Information

Please note that this opportunity will not be financially remunerated. The purpose of the master’s thesis opportunity is not to lead to further employment at UNU-FLORES but to complement an applicant’s studies. Therefore, there should be no expectation of employment after completion of the master’s thesis. Also, please note that the medium of instruction at UNU-FLORES is English.

Please note that only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.

Topics

Climate and Context: The Role of Location in the Environmental Sustainability of Vertical Farming
This thesis investigates how the environmental performance of vertical farming systems varies across different climate zones. Since vertical farms operate with many controlled factors, the need for heating, cooling, and humidity regulation may significantly differ by location, affecting energy use and overall environmental impact. The study aims to explore these differences through a literature analysis comparing different environmental assessments and the context of the vertical farm, such as location and resource availability. The study should identify the conditions under which vertical farming can be considered environmentally favorable.

Research Question: How does the environmental performance of vertical farming systems vary across different locations, and what are the main factors influencing these differences?

In case of the interest, please reach out to Ms Juliane Dziumla.

Assessing Grassland Ecosystem Vulnerability Under Climate Change Scenarios

This study employs an integrated nexus approach to analyze the interrelationships between climate variables, vegetation dynamics (NDVI, NPP, EVI). Through regression modeling and scenario projections (RCP2.6 and RCP8.5), it identifies vulnerable areas and provides insights for sustainable land use planning.

Research Question: How do projected changes in climate variables affect vegetation productivity, and what regions are most at risk?

In case of the interest, please reach out to Dr Azin Zarei .

Modeling the Spatio-Temporal Response of Grassland Vegetation to Climate Change

Focusing on long-term trends (2001–2050), this study models the impact of temperature, precipitation, and evapotranspiration on Net Primary Productivity (NPP). Using statistical regression and remote sensing data, it identifies patterns of vegetation response and implications for ecological sustainability.

Research Question: What are the projected spatio-temporal patterns of grassland vegetation change under different climate scenarios, and how can these patterns inform conservation strategies?