PhD position (m/f/d) | Improving understanding of seasonal and interannual carbon and water flu[...]

PhD position (m/f/d) | Improving understanding of seasonal and interannual carbon and water fluxes using process-based modelling

Join to apply for the PhD position (m/f/d) | Improving understanding of seasonal and interannual carbon and water fluxes using process-based modelling role at Max Planck Society.

Position Overview

The Max Planck Institute for Biogeochemistry (MPI-BGC) in Jena is dedicated to interdisciplinary fundamental research in Earth system sciences, focusing on climate and ecosystems. The institute employs around 250 people and celebrated its 25th anniversary in 2022. Jena offers a vibrant student scene, cultural diversity, and natural beauty in the Saale valley. We are seeking a PhD candidate for a 3-year position starting September 2025 or later.

Background and Project Description

The Amazon Tall Tower Observatory (ATTO) project is a German-Brazilian collaboration aimed at understanding Amazonian forest processes and their atmospheric interactions. Using vegetation modeling, the project investigates impacts of climate extremes and future scenarios on the Amazon rainforest, focusing on processes like leaf phenology and plant hydraulics that are underrepresented in current models.

The successful candidate will utilize the terrestrial biosphere model QUINCY, integrating experimental data from ATTO (phenocam, eddy covariance, functional traits) to enhance model accuracy. The improved model will help scale insights to the Amazon basin, assessing extreme event impacts. Collaboration with international groups and participation in workshops in Manaus, Brazil, are integral parts of the role.

Responsibilities

• Apply and analyze the QUINCY model at the ATTO site and across the Amazon basin
• Integrate observational data into model calibration and testing
• Contribute to model development concerning phenology and plant hydraulics based on data comparisons
• Collaborate with experimental groups for data-model integration discussions

Candidate Profile

• Diploma or Master’s in geosciences, environmental sciences, physics, or related fields
• Knowledge of ecosystem processes, climate change, biogeochemical cycles, and vegetation modeling is advantageous
• Experience with scientific programming (Python, R, or others)
• Strong mathematical and analytical thinking skills
• Curiosity and willingness to learn interdisciplinary topics
• Excellent English communication skills (written and spoken)

Offer Details

The position is full-time, with flexible part-time options, starting September 2025 or later, and follows the TVöD Bund collective agreement. The Max Planck Society encourages applications from women, disabled persons, and all qualified candidates regardless of gender or background.

Application Process

Interested candidates should submit a PDF including cover letter, CV, and contact info for two references by June 15, 2025, quoting reference 10/2025, via email to bewerbung@bgc-jena.mpg.de. Please do not submit application folders; only copies are required. Applications from severely disabled persons are encouraged.