Tenure-Track Professorship in Theoretical Atmospheric Physics (W1)

Karlsruhe Institute of Technology (KIT); Eggenstein-Leopoldshafen; On-site; EUR 70,000 - 85,000; Full time

Job summary

The KIT Division IV invites applications for a Tenure-Track Professorship (W1) in Theoretical Atmospheric Physics at IMKASF to strengthen atmospheric and climate modelling and contribute to the Helmholtz Earth and Environment programme.

You will conduct research on atmospheric modelling with observations and models, teach in Meteorology and Climate Physics, and, during the W1 phase, build a research group with potential expansion to a department, while fostering international collaboration.

Qualifications

• Demonstrated record of research success in theoretical atmospheric physics.
• Experience in development and evaluation of numerical atmospheric models.
• Experience with integrating observations and models is advantageous.

Responsibilities

• Research in atmospheric modelling and related topics.
• Teach in Bachelor's and Master's programs in Meteorology and Climate Physics.
• Lead and develop a research group during the W1 phase, with potential department expansion.

Skills

Atmospheric modelling

Numerical modelling

Interdisciplinary collaboration

Job description

In Division IV, Natural and Built Environment, the KIT Department of Physics invites applications for a Tenure-Track Professorship (W1) in Theoretical Atmospheric Physics at the Institute of Meteorology and Climate Research – Atmospheric Trace Gases and Remote Sensing (IMKASF), to be filled at the earliest possible date. The professorship is intended to further strengthen and develop the institute’s research in atmospheric and climate modelling and to contribute to the research activities of the Helmholtz research programme within the research field Earth and Environment.

Your Tasks

• Research: You will conduct research in the field of atmospheric modelling on societally relevant topics ranging from climate research to climate adaptation. In doing so, you will make use of the unique observational data generated at IMKASF and have the opportunity to contribute to the further development of the coordinated modelling activities within the Helmholtz research field "Earth and Environment."
• Teaching: You will teach in the Bachelor's and Master's degree programs, in particular in Meteorology and Climate Physics, e.g. on topics such as climate system modelling and theoretical atmospheric physics, and foster early-career researchers in this field.
• Governance: During the W1 phase, you will lead and develop a research group and, in the potential W3 phase, additionally a department at IMKASF. In this role, you will be integrated into the Helmholtz program-oriented research within the research field "Earth and Environment."

Your Profile

• You have a demonstrated record of research success in the subject area of the tenure-track-professorship and wish to take a leading role in shaping this field at KIT. In particular, you have experience in the development and evaluation of numerical models of the atmosphere. Experience in the synergistic combination of observations and model systems is an advantage.
• You value interdisciplinary exchange and use it productively in your work.
• Ideally, you already have initial teaching and supervision experience as well as the motivation to continuously develop yourself further.

Employment is subject to Art. 14, par. (2) of the KIT Act in conjunction with Art. 51 LHG Baden-Württemberg (Act of Baden-Württemberg on Universities and Colleges) as well as the

We Offer

• Excellent Research Conditions & State-of-the-art Infrastructure : Benefit from a unique environment that combines university and large-scale research, and gain access to state-of-the-art equipment and interdisciplinary projects. This environment enables you to conduct both basic and applied research at the highest level.
• International Networking : You will work in a global network that encompasses international collaborations and English-language scientific communication. KIT promotes exchange with leading research institutions and industry partners worldwide.
• Transparent Career Paths & Personal Development : Clear development prospects, individual coaching, and a well-developed leadership development program support you in steering your academic career in a targeted manner.
• Family-friendly Offers : The KIT Dual Career Service supports you and your partner in integrating into the workforce, while flexible working time models and company childcare facilities make it easier to balance work and family life.
• Onboarding & Integration : A customized onboarding program will accompany you from your first day at work, enabling you to quickly get started in research, teaching, and the KIT networks and get off to the best possible start.

Salary

Salary is determined by the statutory provisions of the state of Baden-Württemberg and corresponds to the basic salary of pay grade W1 (civil service pay scale). In addition, allowances may be awarded. Where applicable, a family allowance is paid in accordance with civil service regulations.

Contract Duration

In accordance with 51 of the Baden-Württemberg State Higher Education Act (Landeshochschulgesetz), the appointment will be made for six years as a temporary civil servant (Beamtenverhältnis auf Zeit) or as a salaried employee. An interim evaluation will take place before the end of the third year. Upon a positive final evaluation, an offer of a permanent professorship (W3) will be made.

The evaluation procedure and the general evaluation criteria follow the "Quality Assurance Concept for Junior Professorships and Tenure-Track Professorships at KIT" ( ).

Particular emphasis in the mid-term and final evaluation will be placed on academic excellence, a distinct research profile, and visible independent contributions to the field of research and teaching. Candidates are expected to demonstrate internationally recognized publication and presentation activities in Theoretical Atmospheric Physics, the successful acquisition of competitive third-party funding and research projects, and an active contribution to the advancement of the discipline. Special importance is attached to the establishment and long-term development of strong internal and external collaborations at the institutional, national, and international levels, as well as a collegial and collaborative approach to academic work. Further evaluation criteria include demonstrated excellence and commitment in teaching, supervision of undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral researchers, and the potential to represent the field independently, successfully, and with international visibility over the long term.

We at KIT value the diversity of our employees; different perspectives and backgrounds enrich our work. We therefore welcome applications from all candidates. Women are especially encouraged to apply. Applications from recognized severely disabled individuals are given preferential consideration when qualifications are equal.

Application up to: 2026-10-31

Job posting number: 1229/2026

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