PhD position (f/m/d) in the Department of Physical Oceanography

The Leibniz Institute for Baltic Sea Research Warnemünde (IOW) has a temporary vacancy from Jun 01, 2025

PhD position in the Department of Physical Oceanography

for a period of 3 years and a percentage of 75% (30h/week). Remuneration is paid in accordance with the Tarifvertrag für den öffentlichen Dienst der Länder  (TV-L , Federal States Public Sector Collective Agreement) salary scale at level 13.

Female applicants are given preference in the case of equal qualifications and suitability.

Who are we?

IOW is an independent marine research institute of the Leibniz Association, which is committed to equal opportunities, family friendliness and the compatibility of work and family life. Our research focuses on the coastal and marginal seas, in particular the Baltic Sea. The staff of the five departments Physical Oceanography, Marine Chemistry, Biological Oceanography, Marine Geology and Marine Observations work on an interdisciplinary basis in a joint research program.

What will be your tasks?

This position will be part of the Shore to Basin (S²B) research initiative of IOW. S²B is an interdisciplinary approach targeted at creating a holistic understanding of the very shallow but highly dynamic near-shore regions and their role in marine systems with a focus on the Baltic Sea.

More specifically, this PhD thesis will contribute to the physical oceanography part of the overall S²B project with a focus on turbulent transport, mixing processes, and their interactions with the benthic and pelagic marine chemistry and biology. You will investigate the role of turbulence on the oxygen transport within the water column and the sediment. This will involve seagoing field work using state-of-the-art oceanographic equipment, for example eddy-covariance flux systems, shear microstructure turbulence probes and PIV systems. You will also be involved in the extension of an existing numerical model to represent sediment-water exchange especially in the sandy sediments of shallow coastal zones.

While the PhD position announced here will be located at IOW, you will also have the opportunity to visit relevant partner institutions, annual retreats and spring/summer schools jointly with other PhD students and researchers in the S²B.

What do we expect from you?

An excellent MSc degree in Physical Oceanography, Meteorology, Physics, Mathematics or a related field is required.  We also expect very good English language and programming skills (Python) as well as the ability to work in a team. A sound background in geophysical fluid dynamics is an advantage. As some of the work will be carried out on oceanographic research vessels, we expect you to be willing and able to participate in multi-week international research expeditions. Seagoing experience with skills in oceanographic equipment such as eddy-covariance systems, acoustic water velocity measurements (ADCP) and velocity shear microstructure measurements are of  advantage, as well as skills in developing and improving oceanographic devices and skills in the analysis of oceanographic datasets. Good scientific presentation, writing, and communication skills are also an advantage.

What does IOW offer?

IOW offers you a varied workplace with flexible working models, for example the option of working from home or remotely. We provide an excellent research infrastructure with modern laboratory and office equipment, including access to our own research vessel. Warnemünde, a district of the university city of Rostock, is a lively seaside resort with a maritime flair and direct access to the long sandy beaches on the Baltic Sea coast.

How do we promote equal opportunities ?

Our job offers are aimed at all people regardless of their gender. Research benefits from a diverse working environment, which is why we have signed the Diversity Charter. IOW aims to specifically promote women in areas where they are underrepresented. For this purpose, the institute has given itself a plan to promote equality and has repeatedly been awarded the Total E-Quality award for its commitment.  You can find an overview of our measures for equal opportunities and for improving the compatibility of work and family on our website.

We give preference to applications from disabled persons with equal professional and personal suitability. Please mention the disability or equality in your letter of application and enclose a copy of the relevant certificates.

How to apply?

Please send us your application documents with cover letter, CV, copies of your certificates, description of relevant activities and experiences as well as references.

We look forward to receiving your application as a single PDF file, quoting the

keyword: Phy 02/2025 by March 27, 2025 to:

bewerbung.physik(at)io-warnemuende.de

or

Leibniz Institute for Baltic Sea Research Warnemünde

Human Resources Department

Seestraße 15

18119 Rostock

Germany

The interviews are expected to take place on 11. April, 2025.

Unfortunately, we cannot cover your application and travel costs.

For further information, please contact:

Peter Holtermann (peter.holtermann@io-warnemuende.de)