Student Assistant position (m/f/d) for the project CDRnext

The climate needs bright minds. The Potsdam Institute for Climate Impact Research (PIK) addresses crucial scientific questions in the fields of global change, climate impacts and sustainable development. It is one of the world's leading research institutions in its field and offers natural and social scientists from around the world an inspiring environment for excellent interdisciplinary research.

For the project CDRnext, PIK is offering a

Student Assistant position (m/f/d)

(Position number: 33-2026 SHK CDRnext)

in the field of environmental economics and EU climate policy, starting on 01.01.2027.

The position is funded for 1 year. The remuneration is determined according to the guidelines of the TdL. The hourly rate for student assistants with a bachelor's degree is set to be €15.20 under the collective bargaining agreement (€13.98 for those without a bachelor's degree). This is a part-time position with a weekly working time of 15 hours per week.

Key responsibilities:

• Strategic foresight for the ramp-up of Carbon Dioxide Removal (CDR) in the EU
• Support with the development of a numerical policy model for the power sector, industry, and CDR
• Data analysis of potentials and cost both for abatement and CDR in different countries

You are a Bachelor or Master student, enrolled at a German university, and ideally meet the following requirements:

• Background in economics, (industrial/environmental) engineering, or natural sciences
• Strong interest in policy analysis and design
• Coding experience, ideally in Python, and experience with code management (e.g. GitHub)
• Experiences with Claude Code are beneficial
• Experience with PyPSA or a similar optimization model would be ideal
• Background knowledge on EU climate policy, specifically on the EU ETS is beneficial

We expect:

• The ability to work independently and on your own initiative
• A methodical and systematic approach
• Structured and goal-oriented thinking
• Capacity to familiarise yourself quickly with new topics
• Creativity and openness to new approaches
• A high level of competence in oral and written German and English
• Reliability, engagement, and a high level of motivation
• Capacity for teamwork

We offer:

• Creative Collaboration: Be part of an engaged, dynamic, interdisciplinary and international team.
• Top Research: Working in an interdisciplinary environment with a variety of top scientists across the Potsdam Institute and beyond on the critical questions in policies for the ramp-up of CDR technologies, as well as the decarbonization of industry in the EU
• Engagement Opportunities: Connect directly with stakeholders and provide highlevel policy advice, turning research into actionable change.
• A Beautiful Setting: Work in a stimulating environment on Potsdam’s stunning, historic Telegrafenberg campus, just a short commute from Berlin.
• Flexible Work Environment: Enjoy flexible hours and the option for mobile working (up to 50% of your time).
• Competitive Compensation: Receive a collective pay scheme and associated benefits, including a subsidized travel card or Deutschland-Ticket Job.

PIK values equality and diversity. We encourage applications without photo. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment regardless of ethnic and social origin, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, care responsibilities, or age. PIK seeks to increase the share of women in scientific positions and therefore explicitly encourages women to apply. In cases of equal qualification and within the given legal scope, women will be given preference. PIK also encourages applications by parents returning from parental leave.

Please apply by 05.11.2026 directly via our application form below this job advertisement on our website.

For further information or to discuss the position please contact Mr. Darius Sultani.