About the Position
The Max Planck Institute for Meteorology (MPI-M) in Hamburg, Germany, is seeking a highly motivated Postdoctoral Scientist to join its pioneering team in Earth system modelling. This exciting full-time role is part of TerraDT, a major Horizon Europe research project focused on enhancing the Destination Earth (DestinE) digital climate twin. The successful candidate will work on integrating interactive ice-sheet dynamics into the next-generation kilometre-scale ICON Earth system model. Under the guidance of Dr Hauke Schmidt, you will explore atmosphere-ocean-ice interactions, helping to improve our understanding of polar climate processes and sea-level rise. This post offers a rare opportunity to work in a world-class research environment with strong computational resources and collaboration across Europe’s top institutions.
Position Details
- Position: Postdoctoral Scientist
- Institution: Max Planck Institute for Meteorology
- Department: Climate–Ocean–Ice Modelling (part of TerraDT project)
- Research field: Climate science, oceanography, atmospheric science, geophysics
- Location: Hamburg, Germany
- Number of posts: 1
- Job Type: Full-time, Contract
- Start Date (Anticipated): As early as possible
- Working Hours: 35 hours per week
- Salary Range: According to E14 TVöD (German public service scale)
- Required Degree/Diploma: PhD
Research Area
- Earth system modelling
- Ocean and ice-sheet dynamics
- Atmosphere–ocean–cryosphere coupling
- Climate change and sea-level rise
- High-latitude physical processes
- Numerical simulation and model development
Eligibility & Qualifications
Minimum Requirements:
- PhD in oceanography, meteorology, physics, or a closely related field
- Experience in climate or Earth system modelling
- Strong programming skills (e.g., Fortran, Python, or equivalent)
- Proven ability to work independently and as part of a team
- Strong written and oral communication skills in English
Preferred Qualifications:
- Background in ocean dynamics and polar climate processes
- Familiarity with ICON or similar coupled climate models
- Record of peer-reviewed publications and scientific presentations
- Enthusiasm for interdisciplinary and collaborative research
Key Responsibilities
- Integrate an ice-sheet model into ICON Earth system simulations
- Develop and analyse high-resolution coupled model experiments
- Investigate ice–ocean–atmosphere feedbacks, with a focus on polar regions
- Collaborate with internal and external partners across Europe
- Contribute to the open-source and scientific community through publications and code sharing
Application Process
How to Apply:
Submit all application documents via the MPI-M online application system by the deadline.
Required Documents:
- Cover letter outlining research interests and fit for the project
- Detailed CV
- Relevant academic certificates
- Contact details for two referees (including email and phone number)
- All documents must be in PDF format
Contact for Queries: Dr Hauke Schmidt (please do not send applications via email)
Application portal: Apply online at mpimet.mpg.de
Important Dates
- Application Opens: 28 July 2025
- Deadline: 15 August 2025
- Start Date: As soon as possible
- Contract End Date: 31 December 2028
Useful Links
- Institution Website: Max Planck Institute for Meteorology
- Official Notification Link: click here
- Apply now: click here
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