ZMT - Leibniz Zentrum für Marine Tropenforschung

From first steps to lifelong connections: supporting the next generation of scientists

A successful research career involves much more than excellent science. It is shaped by good supervision, continuous learning, meaningful exchange across disciplines, and access to opportunities that broaden perspectives and open new pathways.

As part of ZMT’s Science Management, the ZMT Academy helps bring these elements into everyday research life. Working closely with programme areas, science enabling units, administrative departments, and external partners, we coordinate activities, connect expertise, and enable researchers to navigate the opportunities available throughout and beyond their time at ZMT.

Our services

Our activities address early career researchers (ECR) at various stages of their journey, including Bachelor and Master students, doctoral and postdoctoral researchers, junior research group leaders, and alumni.

Depending on career stage and individual needs, our offers include:

• welcoming and supporting new ECR as they join ZMT,
• guidance throughout the doctoral phase
• training on scientific, methodological, and transferable skills,
• mentoring, leadership, and career development opportunities,
• information on funding options and external training programmes,
• formats that promote learning, sharing, and networking across the institute.

Supporting Doctoral Researchers

Supporting doctoral researchers is a central part of our work. We accompany you throughout the different stages of your doctorate - from onboarding and administrative procedures to structured supervision, training opportunities, and preparing for the next career step. Our role is to provide guidance, connect you with relevant opportunities, and help you make the most of your doctoral journey at ZMT.

Information for Doctoral Researchers → link to structured supervision through doctoral studies regulations, collaboration with graduate programmes, the universities we work with etc 

Staying connected beyond your time at ZMT as an alumni

Scientific collaboration often continues long after a project, research stay, or position at ZMT has ended. Through the Office for Alumni Relations, we maintain links with former colleagues, guests, and partners, creating opportunities for continued exchange, mentoring and collaboration.

Visit the Office for Alumni Relations

Contact 

Whether you are new to ZMT, pursuing your doctorate, or planning your next career step, we invite you to get in touch with us!