(W-0055) Postdoctoral Scientist
THE POSITION
The MPI-M is now opening a 2-year position for
Postdoctoral Scientist (W-0055 | all genders)
to investigate the response of oceanic gyres to large scale changes in buoyancy forcing.
The project aims to advance our fundamental understanding of the large-scale ocean circulation by revisiting the classical theory of wind-driven gyres to i) include buoyancy forcing, and ii) investigate the role of eddy-driven transport across the edges of gyres. The successful candidate will use theory to develop scalings that help understand how ocean models respond to variations in extratropical buoyancy forcing. Special attention will be given to the response of mesoscale eddies that regulate transport across the poleward edges of gyres. Numerical experiments will be carried out in both realistic and idealized configurations. To accomplish these goals, preference will be given to candidates who are experienced working with both the theory and numerical simulation of geophysical flows.
This position is hosted by the Theoretical Ocean Dynamics group in the Climate Dynamics Department (CDY), and the successful candidate will work closely with atmospheric scientists in CDY.
YOUR RESPONSIBILITIES
- Develop theoretical arguments for the large scale ocean response to changes in buoyancy forcing
- Test the validity of arguments using output from coupled climate models at multiple resolutions (100 to 10 km horizontal resolution)
- Apply algorithms for Lagrangian parcel tracking and use the results, along with theory of isopycnal eddy stirring, to understand interactions between gyres
YOUR PROFILE
- Ph.D. in Oceanography, Atmospheric or Climate Sciences, or a related discipline
- Excellent analytical and programming skills. Experience in working with numerical models and large datasets is desired
- Proven record of high-quality research on geophysical fluid dynamics and/or large scale air-sea interactions
- Strong written and oral communication skills, and the ability to work independently as well as collaboratively
OUR OFFER
- Participation in a challenging part of science in an international, intellectually stimulating environment
- Access to complex workflows on the bleeding edge of what is technologically possible, as well as working for and with an open-source community
- A network of very experienced and innovative colleagues within the institute, and at partner institutions with a long-proven tradition of sharing knowledge and information
- Possibility for flexible time-management and measures to support work-life balance
- Attractive benefits incl. subsidy for public transport across Germany (Deutschlandticket)
EMPLOYMENT CONDITIONS
- The potential start date is as early as March 1st, 2026
- Payment will be in accordance with German public service positions depending on qualification (E14 TVöD), including extensive social security plans. The conditions of employment, including upgrades and duration, follow the rules of the Max Planck Society for the Advancement of Science and those of the German civil service
- The Max Planck Society strives for gender and diversity equality. We welcome applications from people of all backgrounds
- The Max Planck Society is committed to increasing the number of individuals with disabilities in its workforce and therefore encourages applications from such qualified individuals
INTERESTED?
We are looking forward to receiving your online application by November 27th, 2025 (23:59 CET).
The application documents should include:
- A complete curriculum vitae including list of publications
- A motivation letter (maximum 2 pages) that summarizes past research and the candidate’s fit to work in this project
- Contact information of three references
ABOUT US
The Max Planck Institute for Meteorology (MPI-M) is a multidisciplinary center for climate and Earth system research located in Hamburg, Germany. It is one of the premier climate science research institutes in the world. Located in the heart of one of Europe’s most livable and vibrant cities, it provides a highly international and interdisciplinary environment to conduct scientific research as well as access to state-of-the-art scientific facilities. You can also have a virtual tour to our campus.
CONTACT
For further information, please contact Dr. Noel Gutierrez-Brizuela.
Please do not forward your application to this email address. The application document.s (PDF only) need to be submitted through this online application system.
