Scientific PostDoc (m/f/d) | Biosphere Theory and Modelling

The Max Planck Institute for Biogeochemistry (MPI-BGC) in Jena is dedicated to interdisciplinary fundamental research in the field of Earth system sciences with a focus on climate and ecosystems. The internationally renowned institute, which currently employs around 250 people, celebrated its 25th anniversary in 2022. Jena is known for high-tech industry, internationally renowned research institutions and a modern university, but it also has a beautiful natural setting in the green Saale valley with steep limestone slopes. The city of Jena has an active student scene and a diverse cultural life. For the research group Biosphere Theory and Modelling (BTM) we are looking for a Scientific PostDoc (m/f/d) in full-time, 3 years.

Background and position description

The Biosphere Theory and Modeling (BTM) group investigates how the Earth functions as a whole system, the role of life within it, and what a sustainable human future might look like.  To do this, we take a unique Earth system approach that focuses on energy and thermodynamics.  Previous work by our group has shown that thermodynamics and its fundamental limits strongly determine the dynamics of the Earth system, and thus the exchanges between land, ecosystems, and the atmosphere.  This can be used to construct very simple yet physically-based models that reproduce observations very well, setting a basis to evaluate land-atmosphere exchange and interactions, the function of the hydrologic cycle, the role of vegetation, and climate change sensitivities.

We are seeking a motivated and interested person to help us further develop this approach, evaluate it using observational data, compare it to climate model results, and to develop materials that can be used in teaching and training.  The position is not project-based and therefore offers freedom for the exact thematic focus within the applications of the thermodynamic Earth system approach.

Your tasks

• Evaluation of the approach with FluxNet observations, climate data sets, and/or climate model simulations* Further development of the approach and applications to topics in land-atmosphere-vegetation interactions, climate change, and/or other anthropogenic forcings
• Write and publish scientific papers in leading international journals
• Present results at national and international conferences
• Co-supervising undergraduate and graduate students
• Contribute to broader activities to bring thermodynamics and simple modeling approaches to Earth system science, e.g., by organizing workshops, establishing and continuing collaborations, contributing to summer schools, and/or developing project proposals
• Contribute to teaching and educational activities

Your profile

• Completed scientific higher education degree (PhD) in environmental/natural sciences (e.g., meteorology, geoecology or other geosciences, environmental and natural sciences, environmental physics)
• Experience with data analysis of observations or climate models
• Expertise in climatology, boundary layer meteorology, hydrology, and/or terrestrial ecology is beneficial
• Ability to work independently with scientific curiosity
• Excellent written and spoken English skills are essential
• Interest in exploratory research
• Interest in teaching and outreach

Our offer

Full-time position for 3 years, suitable for PostDocs, with desired start at the earliest possible date. Part-time work is generally possible. The position will be evaluated and graded following the collective agreement according to TVöD Bund; in addition, we will provide a pension plan based on the public service (VBL).
The Max Planck Society (MPS) strives for gender equality and diversity. The MPS aims to increase the proportion of women in areas where they are underrepresented. Women are therefore explicitly encouraged to apply. We welcome applications from all fields. The Max Planck Society has set itself the goal of employing more severely disabled people. Applications from severely disabled persons are expressly encouraged.

Your application

Are you interested? Please send us your application with cover letter, curriculum vitae as well a s names and contact information of two references summarised in a PDF file (max. 10 MB) by e-mail to bewerbung@bgc-jena.mpg.de or to the
Max-Planck-Institut für Biogeochemie
Personalbüro: Kennwort “08/2023”
Hans-Knöll-Straße 10
07745 Jena
Germany

by 31/05/2023, quoting the reference number 08/2023. We ask that you do not use application folders, but only submit copies, as your documents will be destroyed in accordance with data protection regulations after the application process has been completed. We look forward to receiving your application!