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.

The strategic extension of ZMT entitled ‘Modelling socio-economic dimensions across Tropical Coastal Ecosystems and the Earth System - TropEcS’ aims to link the existing research capacities of ZMT in the fields of socioeconomics, marine ecology, physical oceanography and biogeochemistry with Earth System modelling. The overarching goal is to better understand and predict the impacts of global change on tropical coasts and to assess consequences of changes along tropical coasts for the Earth system. The strategic extension is integrated into the interdisciplinary Programme Areas of ZMT. It will enhance ZMT’s modelling capabilities, contributing to its overall research programme and strategy.

To support activities in the TropEcS research group “Earth System Modelling”, we are looking (subject to release of funds) for a motivated

Postdoctoral researcher (gn) –

Scientific Programmer

(Reference: 31-STB-PB2-PD)

The successful candidate will have the opportunity to run km-scale ocean and coupled Earth system simulations. They will design experiments to advance understanding of tropical dynamics and their interactions, and to improve and expand current Earth system models. A particular focus will be on how mesoscale and submesoscale eddies, alongside small-scale, wave-driven turbulence, influence tropical circulation systems. This work will be carried out in close collaboration with the interdisciplinary ZMT modelling community. The candidate will further benefit from close engagement with the German model development community and is encouraged to pursue new collaborations with partners from tropical countries.

Your tasks:

• Design and run novel ocean and/or Earth system simulations to advance ZMT's ocean and Earth system modelling capacity
• Publish research results on ocean and Earth system dynamics in peer-reviewed scientific journals
• Contribute to the interdisciplinary TropEcS team, addressing research questions on tropical (in particular coastal) system dynamics
• Extend ocean and Earth system models by developing new features or parameterizations
• Contribute to securing third-party funding through proposal writing
• Co-supervise Bacherlor’s / Master’s / PhD students and contribute to teaching

Requirements:

• PhD in meteorology, oceanography, physics, climate science, or a related field
• Demonstrated experience in developing and/or applying ocean or Earth system models, including work on high-performance computing systems
• A solid understanding of geophysical dynamics
• Strong programming skills relevant to model development and data analysis
• Track record of high-quality research, evidenced by peer-reviewed publications in the field of oceanography or Earth system sciences
• Excellent written and oral communication skills in English
• Ability to work both independently and within an interdisciplinary team

Further information:

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

Details of position:

Remuneration is based on Pay Group 13 of the Collective Agreement for the Public Service of the Federal States (TV-L). The gross monthly salary is determined in accordance with the provisions of the TV-L and currently ranges from 5366.89 EUR to 6764.69 EUR employees gross salary per month, depending on the candidate’s recognized relevant professional experience. The gross salary listed here applies to a full-time position. For part-time employment, this amount should be adjusted proportionally. Further details regarding remuneration are governed by the TV-L and the TV-L Pay Scale Regulations (Entgeltordnung zum TV-L).

The position is available for full-time employment starting as soon as possible for 36 months. The fixed term is for academic qualification according to § 2 (1) WissZeitVG (Wissen-schaftszeitvertragsgesetz). Accordingly, only applicants who still have the relevant qualification periods according to § 2 (1) WissZeitVG can be considered.

The fixed term is based on the remaining qualification periods available under the WissZeitVG. During the contract period, a formal assessment will take place after 18 months and, if necessary, a second assessment after 24 months. If the assessment is positive, the position will be converted into a permanent position.

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 varied job in an international, dynamic and interdisciplinary research environment
• A motivated and committed team from different countries and cultures
• The possibility to shape next generation earth system models and their application in the tropics
• 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, a reference letter and a letter of motivation by 31.10.2026 as a single pdf file with the reference number “31-STB-PB2-PD” to Ms. Wiebke Harms-Krusemeyer, 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.