PhD student for the investigation of 3D cloud-radiation effects (m, f, d, n. a.)
Leipzig, 15.04.2025
The Leibniz Institute for Tropospheric Research (TROPOS) is a research institute of the Leibniz Association and an internationally renowned institute in the field of aerosol and cloud research.
The advertised position is part of the DFG research unit C3SAR (Cloud 3d Structure And Radiation), coordinated by the Leibniz Institute for Tropospheric Research in Leipzig with partners at the Universities of Munich, Cologne and Hanover as well as the German Weather Service in Offenbach and Lindenberg. The partners combine leading expertise in modeling and observing clouds and their radiative properties with the aim of taking the complex spatial structure of clouds into account in climate models and global remote sensing. The position thus offers highly relevant and interesting opportunities for work and cooperation in one of the most important areas of climate research. In the sub-project under consideration, TROPOS contributes its expertise in the detailed modeling of clouds to the project network and plans to make it possible for the first time to link detailed cloud modeling and radiation calculations.
TROPOS is looking for a PhD student (m, f, d, n/a) for the following tasks:
- Creation of detailed cloud simulations and their combination with observational data to improve the interpretation of cloud processes
- Coupling of cloud simulation data with detailed radiation calculation
- Evaluation of simulated 3D cloud-radiation effects in relation to observable quantities
- Compilation and publication of the research results in scientific journals and presentation of the results at scientific conferences.
We are looking for a doctoral candidate with the following qualifications:
- Master's degree in meteorology, physics, mathematics, computer science or an equivalent scientific or mathematical discipline
- Very good knowledge of Python and FORTRAN programming, UNIX/Linux and shell script
- Knowledge in dealing with server-based computer structures and high-performance computers (e. g. HLRE at DKRZ)
- Confident handling of analysis and visualization software
- Very good written and spoken English skills are required
- Furthermore, experience in dealing with the ICON model and the scientific utilization of ICON data is an advantage
The ideal start date would be 1st August 2025. The position is limited to 36 months.
We offer you:
an exciting job with a varied range of activities in an interdisciplinary working environment and a wide range of options for balancing work and family life, as well as flexible working hours and daycare places
an attractive living environment with Leipzig as an interesting and culturally diverse city
The position involves part-time work of 30 hours per week and offers the opportunity for promotion.
The salary will be TV-L pay group 13, including the attractive social benefits of the public sector.
TROPOS values the diversity of its employees and pursues the goals of equal opportunities. In order to increase the proportion of female employees in scientific and science-related positions, we hereby specifically invite female candidates to apply. People with disabilities (“Schwerbehinderung” according to Book IX of the German Social Code) have priority in the hiring process if they have the same suitability, aptitude and professional qualifications.
If you are interested, please send your complete and informative application documents (including references) by 15th May 2025 exclusively by e-mail in one coherent PDF document to:
If you have any questions about this vacancy, please contact:
Fabian Senf senf[at]tropos.de
By submitting the application documents by e-mail, the applicant agrees to the storage/processing of personal data in accordance with Art. 13 DSGVO for the purpose of selection for this job advertisement. The risks of sending documents electronically are hereby pointed out.
More information about TROPOS can be found on the website www.tropos.de.