Postdoctoral Fellowship in Earth System Modeling at Max Planck Institute, Jena, Germany
About Position/Job
The Max Planck Institute of Geoanthropology in Jena invites applications for a Postdoctoral Research Fellowship in Land Use, Climate, and Earth System Modeling. This role supports the PANTROPOCENE project and the Department of Coevolution of Land Use and Urbanization, focusing on integrating archaeological and historical data into Earth system models. It offers a unique opportunity to work in an interdisciplinary setting at a globally renowned research institute, contributing to cutting-edge science on the long-term impacts of human land use on climate.
Position/Job Details
- Position: Postdoctoral Research Fellow
- Institution: Max Planck Institute of Geoanthropology
- Department: Coevolution of Land Use and Urbanization
- Research Field: Earth System Modeling, Climate Science, Geoanthropology
- Location: Jena, Germany
- Number of Post: 1
- Job Type: Full-time, Postdoctoral
- Start Date (Anticipated): September 2025 (flexible)
- Working Hours: 39 hours per week (standard full-time in Germany)
- Salary Range: Based on public sector pay scale (TVöD) up to paygroup 13
- Required Degree/Diploma: PhD
Research Area
- Earth system modeling
- Human-environment interaction
- Land use and land cover change
- Archaeological and historical data integration
- Climate change feedback mechanisms
- Soil erosion and atmospheric composition modeling
Eligibility & Qualifications
Minimum Requirements:
- PhD in Earth Sciences, Geography, Earth System Modeling, Climate Science, Mathematics, or Physics
- Practical experience with global climate or vegetation models
- Strong publication record and communication skills
- Ability to work independently and in interdisciplinary teams
- Willingness to travel for fieldwork
Preferred Qualifications:
- Experience with archaeological, historical, and palaeoenvironmental datasets
- Analytical experience in tropical regions
- Interest in science communication and outreach
- Background in multidisciplinary research
Key Responsibilities
- Develop and apply models of past land use into dynamic Earth system models
- Collaborate with archaeologists, geoscientists, and climate researchers
- Analyze impacts of pre-industrial human land use on climate and ecosystems
- Contribute to international research networks and publications
Application Process
How to Apply
Applicants should submit their materials via the Max Planck online application portal or by email. The position is hosted under the PANTROPOCENE project led by Dr. Patrick Roberts.
Required Documents:
- CV (with publication list)
- Summary of previous research
- Statement of interest
- List of up to 10 relevant publications
- Degree certificates
Important Dates
- Application Opens: May 2025
- Deadline: Not specified early applications recommended
- Interview Date: To be communicated to shortlisted candidates
- Start Date: 1 September 2025 or as agreed
Useful Links
- Institution Website: https://www.gea.mpg.de
- Job Posting:Postdoc position | Max Planck Postdoc Program
- Apply Now: https://www.gea.mpg.de
