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

• Apply by email to [email protected] (subject line and attachments per the official instructions).
• Full vacancy text and updates: Euraxess listing.

About the position

Job Offer: PhD Position

Institution: Slovak University of Agriculture in Nitra

Topic Title and Form of Study: The influence of soil tillage system on the quantity and quality of soil organic matter (full-time form of study)

Supervisor: prof. Ing. Erika Balontayová, PhD.

Workplace: Institute of Agrochemistry and Soil Science, FAFR SUA in Nitra

Language: Slovak

Scientific Objectives

The aim of the dissertation is to assess the influence of different tillage systems on soil quality through organic carbon indicators. The specific aims are as follows:

• Determination of the amount of organic carbon and its balance on soil types in the selected locations;
• Determination of the mechanisms of organic carbon stabilization and the potential for its sequestration in the given soil types;
• Assessment of the quality of organic matter in the soil through labile and stable fractions of organic carbon;
• Analysis of the relationship between soil water and soil organic matter.

Methodological Objectives and Expected Benefits

The research focuses on the most widely used soil tillage systems in Slovakia. It is carried out in real production and specific soil-climatic conditions. The suitability of a given soil tillage system is not universal, but is linked to specifics of a particular region and cultivation system. One of the basic indicators of soil quality and health is the soil organic matter (SOM). The soil tillage system is a key factor influencing the quantity and quality of organic carbon in the soil. Its impact on SOM is monitored through selected quantitative and qualitative parameters of SOM. Moreover, the SOM is in a close relation to the ability of soil to retain water. This relationship should be parametrized in more detail.

Expected Benefits: The positives and negatives of the given soil tillage systems in relation to soil type, soil species, landscape, and cultivation system will be specified.

Requirements for Applicants

The applicant should be able to handle basic chemical and physical analysis of soil samples. Knowledge of a foreign language – English is preferred.