Fully Funded PhD in Antarctic Research at GFZ Helmholtz

About the Program

The GFZ Helmholtz Centre Potsdam – German Research Centre for Geosciences, part of the Helmholtz Association, invites applications for a fully funded PhD position in Antarctic Research. Based in Potsdam within the Section “Earth System Modelling”, this doctoral project is embedded in the DFG-funded priority programme ‘Antarctic Research’ (ANT-GIA) and carried out in close collaboration with TU Dresden. The research will focus on glacial isostatic adjustment (GIA) in Antarctica, using advanced 3D numerical modelling, geodynamic constraints, and geodetic GNSS data interpretation. This interdisciplinary project is central to improving understanding of Earth’s dynamic processes in response to ice sheet changes, with strong implications for climate science and geoscience. The position offers a supportive, international research environment, training opportunities, and collaboration with leading national and international partners.

Program Details

Position: Fully Funded PhD Candidate (Doctoral Researcher)
Institution: GFZ Helmholtz-Zentrum für Geoforschung
Department/Faculty: Section 1.3 “Earth System Modelling” (Department of Geodesy)
Supervisor: Dr Volker Klemann
Location: Potsdam, Germany
Start Date (Anticipated): 1 December 2025
Duration: 36 months (fixed term)
Funding: Fully funded, TVöD Bund (EG 13, 75% – 29.25 hrs/week)
Working Hours: Part-time, 75% (29.25 hrs/week)
Required Degree/Diploma: Master’s degree (or equivalent) in Geophysics, Physics, Mathematics, or Geosciences

Research Focus / Area

Antarctic Research
Glacial Isostatic Adjustment (GIA)
Geophysics & Geodynamics
Earth System Modelling
GNSS Data & Numerical Modelling

Eligibility & Qualifications

Minimum Requirements:

Master’s degree in Geophysics, Physics, Mathematics, or Geosciences
Strong command of English (B2–C1 level)

Preferred Qualifications:

Experience in numerical modelling of geodynamic processes and/or continuum mechanics
Knowledge of Earth–ice sheet interactions
Programming/scripting skills (Python, C++, shell; FORTRAN beneficial)
Strong analytical and communication skills