PhD in Agricultural Sciences at Slovak University of Agriculture in Nitra (Slovakia)

Key details

• Host institution: Slovak University of Agriculture in Nitra
• Location: Slovak University of Agriculture in Nitra, Trieda Andreja Hlinku 2, Nitra, Slovakia
• Application deadline: May 31, 2026

Funding

Not funded by a EU programme

Funding level (from listing): partial or not via EU framework — confirm on the official call.

How to apply

• Application portal / instructions: Official application link.
• Context on Euraxess: Original listing.

About the position

Long-Term Research into the Synergy of Biochar and Soil Nutrients under Field Experiment Conditions

Institution: Slovak University of Agriculture in Nitra

Supervisor: doc. Ing. Ján Horák, PhD.

Workplace: Institute of Landscape Engineering

Field of study: Agriculture and landscaping

Study program: Landscape Engineering

Form of study: full-time

Thesis Description

Biochar (BC) is a product of the pyrolysis or charring process (incomplete combustion of biomass in limited to zero oxygen supply at temperatures above 250 – 700°C). Numerous studies representing a diverse range of soil climatic conditions have indicated a positive effect of biochar on soil chemistry and its ability to supply nutrients to cultivated crops, improve biological and physical properties of the soil. Biochar has also been shown to increase crop yields, reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions and increase soil carbon storage. The aim of the dissertation is to evaluate the long-term impact of the synergy of biochar and soil nutrients on greenhouse gas emissions and selected soil quality parameters.

Rationale

While many studies focus on the short-term effects of biochar application to soil, there is almost no available data that would monitor its long-term effects (i.e. > 10 years) in field, so that recommendations can be formulated for farmers (appropriate biochar application rate, how often to apply biochar, fertilizer management, etc.). For the purpose of long-term research on the impact of biochar on greenhouse gas emissions, soil quality and crop yields, a field experiment was established in 2014, which is still ongoing.

Financial Coverage

VEGA 1/0024/25: Use of pyrolysis-treated organic waste as a suitable soil additive (2025-2028)