Earth System Modeller (m/f/d)

The climate needs bright minds. The Potsdam Institute for Climate Impact Research (PIK) addresses crucial scientific questions in the fields of global change, climate impacts and sustainable development. It is one of the world's leading research institutions in its field and offers natural and social scientists from around the world an inspiring environment for excellent interdisciplinary research.

In the Research Department Earth System Analysis, we are offering an exciting opportunity to be part of a new development phase of the Potsdam Institute. We are looking for an

Earth System Modeller (m/f/d)

(Position number: 57-2024 Earth System Modeller)

in the field of tipping point modelling, ideally starting on 01.01.2025 or as soon as possible thereafter.

The position is initially funded for 2,5 years. Extensions are envisaged but depend on new external funding. Remuneration is in accordance with the German public tariff scheme (TV-L Brandenburg), salary group E 13. This is a full-time position with a weekly working time of 40 hours. The position can be filled on a part-time basis.

Background

At PIK, we are developing a model to bridge the gap between traditional EMICs and the current generation of comprehensive models, called the Potsdam Earth Model (POEM). Instead of focusing on the highest resolution possible, POEM is designed to be as comprehensive as possible, focusing on including as many Earth System components as possible (including land use, biosphere with dynamic vegetation, ice sheets, dynamic bathymetry, the carbon and nitrogen cycles, etc.) to simulate the interactions and feedbacks within and between these systems. This is particularly crucial when studying tipping points and their interactions.

Key responsibilities:

In the context of an international research initiative, the candidate is expected to contribute to advancing our modelling capabilities with our integrated Earth System modelling framework POEM with a special focus on enabling simulations of tipping points and their interactions as well as conduct model simulations for the Tipping Point Modelling Intercomparison Project (TIPMIP). TIPMIP is an international initiative that aims to systematically advance our understanding of tipping dynamics and associated critical thresholds which might commit parts of the Earth system to large-scale, non-linear change.

Requirements:

We require a PhD in a relevant subject area (e.g., Atmospheric Science, Climate Modelling, Mathematics, Physics, or related field), numerical modelling experience, and a good scientific publication record appropriate for the level of experience. Experience with GFDL models and good programming skills in languages such as Python, Fortran or C++ are welcomed.

We expect:

• a solid understanding of Earth system models
• advanced skills in scientific modelling and computing
• the ability to work independently and on your own initiative
• structured and goal-oriented thinking
• capacity to familiarize yourself quickly with new topics
• creativity and openness to new approaches
• high level of proficiency in the English language
• reliability, the ability to cope with the challenges of research environments, and a high level of motivation
• willingness to travel for work (project meetings, workshops etc.) and take part in further training
• capacity for teamwork
• organizational talent

We offer:

• the chance to be part of a creative, interdisciplinary team,
• a stimulating working environment in an internationally recognised research institute on Potsdam's beautiful, historic Telegrafenberg campus, a short commuting distance from Berlin,
• flexi-time and mobile working (up to 50% of your hours),
• a collective pay scheme and associated benefits as well as a subsidized travel card or the Deutschland-Ticket Job.

PIK values equality and diversity. We encourage applications without photo. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment regardless of ethnic and social origin, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, care responsibilities, or age. PIK seeks to increase the share of women in scientific positions and therefore explicitly encourages women to apply. In cases of equal qualification and within the given legal scope, women will be given preference. PIK also encourages applications by parents returning from parental leave.

Please apply by 31.10.2024  directly using our application form below this job advertisement on our website.

If you hold an international higher education qualification, please also submit a certificate evaluation from the Central Office for Foreign Education (ZAB) with your application. If you do not yet have a transcript evaluation, please note that you may have to request one if your application is successful. For further information, please visit the website: https://www.kmk.org/zab/central-office-for-foreign-education.html

For further information or to discuss the position please contact Dr. Georg Feulner.