As cities face increasing challenges from urbanization and climate change, Sustainable Urban Drainage Systems (SUDS) are being widely implemented to reduce runoff, enhance infiltration, improve water quality, and provide additional ecosystem services. However, the long-term performance of these systems depends strongly on soil properties, which remain poorly understood in many established SUDS. 

Are you interested in urban ecology, soil science, and nature-based solutions? Would you like to contribute to research that helps make cities more resilient to climate change? 

This project will investigate the soil functioning of established SUDS across several cities in Bavaria. Field and laboratory measurements will include infiltration capacity, soil compaction, soil carbon, and soil water retention characteristics. The results will help identify the soil properties that support effective stormwater management and inform the design and maintenance of future urban green infrastructure. 

You will gain hands-on experience in field campaigns, soil sampling, laboratory analyses, and environmental data analysis, while contributing to research with direct relevance for climate-resilient cities. 

✅ Requirements 

• Availability to travel (occasionally) 1-3 days a week. 
• Valid driver’s license to drive in Germany. 
• Previous lab experience is a plus, but motivation to learn is equally important. 
• Reliability, attention to detail, and ability to work in a team. 

The project is planned to start from August 2026. 

Please send a short email expressing your interest to Samantha Spinoso Sosa