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.

A recent strategic extension of ZMT entitled ‘Modeling Socio-Economic Dimensions in Tropical Coastal Ecosystems and the Earth system – TropEcS’ aims to link the existing research capacities of ZMT in the fields of socioeconomics, marine ecology, physical oceanography and biogeochemistry with Earth system modeling.

The newly established Working Group Ecosystems and Resource Sustainability, led by Dr. Stefan Koenigstein, develops and applies a range of quantitative ecological models, making use of ecological data and eco-physiological process knowledge, ocean and earth system model outputs, and stakeholder participation. Our goals are to better understand the dynamics of marine ecosystems and the resilience of marine living resources to exploitation, to anticipate future trends under global change, and to co-develop sustainable, ecosystem-based adaptation strategies together with coastal communities.

The working group is seeking a doctoral candidate (subject to release of funds) as part of the TropEcS extension, and embedded within the interdisciplinary ZMT Programme Area Coastal Resources.

Doctoral candidate (gn) in natural sciences

(Reference: 2-STB-PB1-PhD)

on the topic of quantitative ecological modelling of marine environment–fish interactions. Focus regions are the Eastern Tropical Pacific (Peru, Central America), Indonesia, and/or further locations, depending on the applicant’s interests and experience. The specific PhD topic will be jointly developed.

Your tasks:

• Analyze environmental, biological and fisheries data, and available output from ocean-biogeochemical models;
• Contribute to the development of the TropEcS modeling framework, by developing and parameterizing quantitative ecological models for marine fish (e.g. early life stage, single or multi-species population, food-web, and/or individual-based models) for TropEcS focus regions;
• Present results at scientific conferences, and develop scientific publications based on the results;
• In collaboration with other scientists at ZMT and international partners, contribute to developing ecosystem-based recommendations for fisheries governance, policy, and/or societal climate change adaptation, for instance using participatory modelling approaches.

Requirements:

• Master of Science or equivalent in marine biology, biological oceanography, ecology, fisheries science, or a related field;
• Intermediate to advanced written and oral command of English;
• Some familiarity with scientific data analysis and programming (e.g., in R, Python, Java, or Stella Architect);
• Capacity for analysis of complex relations, and critical thinking; ability to work collaboratively and provide deliverables on time;
• Advantageous are previous experiences in ecological modeling, ecological field work, climate change biology, and/or participatory work with stakeholders.

Further information:

For questions, please contact Dr. Stefan Koenigstein, email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Details of position:

Salary will be paid according to the German TV-L (EG 13). The position is available for part-time (2/3 of a full-time position) employment starting as soon as possible for 36 months. The fixed term is for academic qualification according to § 2 (1) WissZeitVG (Wissenschaftszeitvertragsgesetz). Accordingly, only applicants who still have the relevant qualification periods according to § 2 (1) WissZeitVG can be considered. The position is intended to provide further academic qualification with the aim of obtaining a doctorate (Dr. rer. nat).

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 your application documents, including 1. a statement about your general research interests and/or suggestion on a specific PhD topic (1-2 pages); 2. a short CV (1-2 pages), and 3. a Master's course certificate or equivalent; by 22.02.2026 as a single pdf file with the reference number “2-STB-PB1-PhD” to Ms. Lena de Carné-Oehlmann, email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

Leibniz Centre for Tropical Marine Research, Fahrenheitstraße 6, D-28359 Bremen.