The Leibniz Centre for Tropical Marine Research (ZMT) GmbH (www.leibniz-zmt.de) is an independent research and teaching institute that provides scientific knowledge for the protection and sustainable use of tropical coastal ecosystems. To this end, we work in an inter- and transdisciplinary manner with our partners in the tropics. The ZMT is a member of the Leibniz Association.
Subject to release of funds, we are seeking to fill a position within the ESA-funded FRESCH initiative. FRESCH aims to evaluate existing remote sensing techniques for estimating CO₂ concentrations in surface waters and assess their applicability in coastal environments. The position will be based in the ZMT’s program area (PA2) Impacts of Global Change and Adaptation and will actively contribute to its objectives. It will also strengthen collaboration between ZMT, the FRESCH consortium, and, in particular, our partners at the Flanders Marine Institute (VLIZ) in Belgium. ZMT’ PA2 is committed to improving regional climate forecasts and reducing uncertainties about the future of tropical marine ecosystem services, with a strong focus on elemental cycles such as carbon. VLIZ’s work combines in situ measurements with machine learning approaches, which have revealed significant fluctuations in marine CO₂ sinks over interannual to decadal timescales — fluctuations that need to be better quantified. To advance FRESCH and support our research priorities, we are looking for a
Your tasks:
- Extract data from existing databases containing in-situ observations and remote sensing information.
- Develop, extend, and adapt software originally created for the open ocean under other ESA initiatives.
- Conduct sensitivity analyses to quantify uncertainties in line with the defined requirements for estimating CO₂ concentrations in surface waters.
Requirements:
- Doctoral degree in mathematics, physics, or equivalent numerical disciplines
- Background in marine sciences
- Experience in MARLAB and Python
- Self-motivation, collaboration, critical thinking, and effective communication skills
Further information:
For questions, please contact PD Dr. Tim Rixen, email:
Details of position:
Salary will be paid according to the German TV-L (EG 13). The position is available for part-time (50 % of a full-time position) employment starting as soon as possible with a duration until June 15, 2027. ZMT is an equal opportunity employer. Applicants with a migration background are welcome. Persons with severe disabilities are given special consideration if they have the same professional and personal qualifications. The ZMT values its diverse workforce and pursues the goal of providing equal opportunity, which incorporates gender neutrality (gn). We will be happy to accept your documents without a photo.
We offer:
- A challenging and varied job in an international, dynamic and interdisciplinary research environment
- A motivated and committed team from different countries and cultures
- An open and cooperative working atmosphere
- Opportunities for personal and professional development
- Interesting, varied and challenging tasks and family-friendly working conditions
- Company pension plan (VBL)
- Company health promotion and the opportunity to participate in company fitness with EGYM Wellpass
Submission of application:
Please submit a cover letter with your motivation, CV and the names of two referees; letters of recommendation are also welcome by 04.01.2026 as a single pdf file with the reference number “31-FRESCH” to Ms. Lena de Carné-Oehlmann, email:
Leibniz Centre for Tropical Marine Research, Fahrenheitstraße 6, D-28359 Bremen
