Research Associate for the International Max Planck Research School on Earth System Modelling (IMPRS-ESM)

Role overview

The Faculty of Mathematics, Informatics and Natural Sciences at the University of Hamburg, in collaboration with the International Max Planck Research School on Earth System Modelling (IMPRS-ESM), is recruiting a research associate for a structured, interdisciplinary and international PhD-oriented programme.

The programme focuses on improving understanding of Earth system processes and dynamics, as well as strengthening predictive capabilities. It is a joint initiative of the Max Planck Institute for Meteorology and the University of Hamburg.

Working arrangement

This is a part-time, on-site position with a workload of 65% of regular weekly working hours. The initial appointment is for three years, with the contract structured as a fixed-term role under the German academic fixed-term employment law (WissZeitVG). The position is offered at salary level EGr. 13 TV-L or TVöD, depending on the funding source.

The planned start is spring 2027, though the start date can be arranged individually.

Key duties

The main task is independent research. In addition, the role provides scope to work toward further academic qualification, especially a doctoral dissertation. At least one third of the working time is reserved for the researcher’s own academic work.

Candidate profile

Applicants should have a university degree in a relevant discipline and a strong academic record. The university is looking for candidates who hold, or are close to completing, an MSc or equivalent qualification in physics, geophysical sciences including meteorology and oceanography, ecology, mathematics, computer science, engineering, economics, political science, or a related subject.

Successful candidates should be highly motivated for Earth system research and prepared to carry out rigorous scientific work throughout the full duration of the degree programme.

Programme highlights and benefits

The IMPRS-ESM offers advanced scientific training, skills development and problem-solving opportunities. Researchers can work across numerical modelling, analysis of large data sets, statistical methods and other fields within a highly collaborative scientific setting.

The position comes with reliable pay under collective wage agreements, continuing education, university pension coverage, flexible working hours, work-life balance options, health management support including EGYM Wellpass, educational leave, and 30 days of annual leave.

Additional advantages include access to excellent research facilities, a broad range of PhD projects within the main research areas of IMPRS-ESM, interdisciplinary research in an international environment, close supervision and mentorship by internationally recognised experts, and strong training in both subject-specific and transferable skills in English.

The University of Hamburg describes itself as a University of Excellence with a strong focus on research, teaching, education and knowledge exchange, supporting sustainable and digital change in a pluralistic society. The Max Planck Institute for Meteorology is presented as a leading international climate and Earth system research centre based in Hamburg, offering a world-class scientific environment and modern facilities.

Equal opportunity information

The organisation encourages women in academia to apply. Severely disabled applicants and applicants with equivalent status will be given preference when qualifications are otherwise equal.

Application details

Applications must be submitted only through the online application form. Required documents are a motivation letter, CV, copies of degree certificates, and two reference letters, with the reference letters to be submitted by 20 September.

The application deadline is 15 September 2026. The reference number is MPI-26. The contact point is the IMPRS-ESM Office, reachable at office.imprs@mpimet.mpg.de and +49 40 41173-467. The workplace address is Bundesstraße 53, 20146 Hamburg, Germany.

Additional information

This role is tied to the academic career pathway and includes the opportunity to complete a doctoral dissertation during the contract period. The role is based in Hamburg and is connected to the scientific collaboration between the University of Hamburg and the Max Planck Institute for Meteorology.