Ph.D. position in the area of marine science and climate change

Reference code: 50085495_2 – 2022/KS 5

Commencement date: 01.11.2022

Work location: Geesthacht (near Hamburg)

Application deadline: 11.09.2022

The Institute of Coastal Systems Analysis and Modelling at the Helmholtz-Zentrum Hereon hosts several highly motivated and experienced researchers in the broad field of coastal research. Our research focus lies in numerical modelling of coastal processes and interactions between different environmental compartments on regional and coastal scales. At Helmholtz-Zentrum Hereon, we develop numerical models with the aim to determine the past and current state of the environment and to identify the major drivers for future changes in the system.

We welcome applications for a Ph.D. position in the area of marine science and climate change. The research to be carried out during the Ph.D. thesis will be framed in the EU European Green Deal H2020 project REST-COAST (Large scale RESToration of COASTal ecosystems through rivers to sea connectivity

[https://rest-coast.eu]). The position is initially for 3 years.

The overall project will demonstrate to what extent upscaled restoration of coastal ecosystems can mitigate climate change impact by providing carbon storage, reducing risks, and providing gains in biodiversity for vulnerable coastal ecosystems. REST COAST will develop solutions for the resilient delivery of coastal ecosystem services and test these at nine pilot sites throughout Europe. The selected ecosystem services (e.g. risk reduction, environmental quality) touch on urgent coastal problems such as the erosion/flooding during recent storms or the accelerating coastal habitat degradation.

Equality of opportunity is an important part of our personnel policy.

Your tasks

The Ph.D. candidate is expected to conduct research focusing on a risk assessment suite based on coupled models with ecosystem services parameterized as a function of restoration scale and climatic conditions. The focus is also on multi-hazard predictions, including ecosystem services synergies. The work will also support, together with other project partners/stakeholders in the Wadden Sea pilot, the new adaptive management and innovative governance arrangements, including the effect of the proposed services.

Your profile

Essential qualifications are:

• holding a Master (M.Sc.) or diploma degree (academic university degree) in physics, mathematics, physical oceanography, atmospheric sciences, environmental sciences, or related disciplines
• good skills in written and spoken English
• computing skills (e. g., experience with MATLAB, R, FORTRAN or Python)

A background in environmental modelling is advantageous. We expect creativity and independence, ability to work and communicate with an international team of scientists from different disciplines.

We offer you

• multinational work environment with ca. 1,100 colleagues from more than 50 nations
• extensive options of vocational training (i. a. expert seminars, language courses or leadership seminars)
• flexible working hours and various models to ensure the compatibility of family and career
• excellent infrastructure, including a scientific in-house library as well as modern work spaces
• remuneration according to the standards of the collective wage agreement TV-AVH including further social benefits
• free employee advice – Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
• childcare offers
• Welcome Office, guest accommodation
• PhD Buddy Program
• canteen at the Geesthacht location

Helmholtz-Zentrum Hereon

The Helmholtz-Zentrum Hereon conducts cutting-edge international research for a changing world: Around 1,100 employees contribute to the tackling of climate change, the sustainable use of the world's coastal systems and the resource-compatible enhancement of the quality of life. From fundamental research to practical applications, the interdisciplinary research spectrum covers a unique range.

Institute of Coastal Systems Analysis and Modeling

The Institute for Coastal Systems Analysis and Modeling studies the dynamics of coastal systems as part of the Earth system and develops prediction methods and future scenarios for coastal systems. One focus of our research is the study of coastal ecosystems, which are subject to increasing pressure to change due to climate change, use of coastal environments, and other human drivers.

Interested?

Then we are looking forward to receiving your comprehensive application documents (cover letter, CV, transcripts, certificates etc.) indicating the reference number 2022/KS 5 until 11.09.2022.

Apply now

Severely disabled persons and those equaling severely disabled persons who are equally suitable for the position will be considered preferentially within the framework of legal requirements.