The Leibniz Centre for Tropical Marine Research (ZMT) GmbH (www.leibniz-zmt.de) is an independent research and teaching institute that provides scientific knowledge for the protection and sustainable use of tropical coastal ecosystems. To this end, we work in an inter- and transdisciplinary manner with our partners in the tropics. The ZMT is a member of the Leibniz Association.

We aim to advance our understanding of groundwater availability across the world’s islands. Building on previous work in our research group, the project will develop a comprehensive global database of island hydrogeological characteristics and adapt an existing global groundwater modeling framework (Nazari et al., 2025) to capture the unique conditions of insular environments. The results will provide new insights into groundwater availability and recharge dynamics under present and future climate scenarios, supporting sustainable water management in vulnerable island regions.

The working group Submarine Groundwater Discharge is seeking to fill an opening for a doctoral candidate (subject to release of funds).

Doctoral candidate (gn)

(Reference: 27-SGA)

Your tasks:

• Develop and curate a global database of island hydrogeological characteristics.
• Adapt and apply an existing a global groundwater modeling framework to small islands.
• Evaluate and interpret model outputs with respect to groundwater resources and recharge processes under current and projected climate conditions.
• Communicate and disseminate research outcomes through peer-reviewed publications.

Requirements:

• MSc in Hydrogeology, Geosciences, Hydrology, or a related field

• Demonstrated experience in geospatial analysis (GIS) and proven skills in hydrogeological or hydrological modeling
• Proficiency in programming (e.g., Python)
• Ability to handle large datasets at global scale and strong statistical understanding
• Excellent written and spoken English, with a strong interest in scientific writing and publishing
• High motivation for research on groundwater in the Earth System, particularly in coastal environments

Further information:

For questions, please contact Prof. Dr. Nils Moosdorf, email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Details of position:

Salary will be paid according to the German TV-L (EG 13). The position is available for part-time (75 % of a full-time position) employment starting May 1st, 2026 for 36 months. The fixed term is for academic qualification according to § 2 (1) WissZeitVG (Wissenschaftszeitvertragsgesetz). Accordingly, only applicants who still have the relevant qualification periods according to § 2 (1) WissZeitVG can be considered. The position is intended to provide further academic qualification with the aim of obtaining a doctorate.

ZMT is an equal opportunity employer. Applicants with a migration background are welcome. Persons with severe disabilities are given special consideration if they have the same professional and personal qualifications. The ZMT values its diverse workforce and pursues the goal of providing equal opportunity, which incorporates gender neutrality (gn). We will be happy to accept your documents without a photo.

We offer:

• A challenging and varied job in an international, dynamic and interdisciplinary research environment
• A motivated and committed team from different countries and cultures
• An open and cooperative working atmosphere
• Opportunities for personal and professional development
• Interesting, varied and challenging tasks and family-friendly working conditions
• Company pension plan (VBL)
• Company health promotion and the opportunity to participate in company fitness with EGYM Wellpass

Submission of application:

Please submit your complete application documents (cover letter, resume, references, job references, certificates and attestations) and a letter of motivation by 31.01.2026 as a single pdf file with the reference number “27-SGA” to Ms. Lena de Carné-Oehlmann, email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

Leibniz Centre for Tropical Marine Research, Fahrenheitstraße 6, D-28359 Bremen.