Summary
The University of Potsdam invites applications for two fully funded Postdoctoral Researcher positions within the DFG-funded Collaborative Research Centre (CRC) 1294: “Data Assimilation – The Seamless Integration of Data and Models.”
These positions offer an excellent opportunity to work at the intersection of mathematics, statistics, machine learning, and Earth system sciences in a highly interdisciplinary and international research environment. The appointments are full-time (100%), funded until 30 June 2029, and expected to begin on 1 March 2026.
Two Postdoctoral Research Positions in Data Assimilation (CRC 1294) – University of Potsdam, Germany
Summary Table
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Institution | University of Potsdam |
| Project | DFG CRC 1294 – Data Assimilation |
| Positions | 2 × Postdoctoral Researcher |
| Employment Type | Full-time (100%), TV-L E13 |
| Contract Duration | Until 30 June 2029 |
| Location | Potsdam, Germany |
| Start Date | 1 March 2026 |
| Application Deadline | 15 January 2026 |
Designation
Academic Staff Member (Postdoctoral Researcher)
Position ID: 378/2025
Pay Scale: TV-L E13 (German public service)
Research Areas
Applicants may apply for one or both of the following projects:
Project B04
Point Process Modelling of Seismicity: Deaggregation and Model Reduction
Fields: Mathematics, Mathematical Statistics, Seismology
Supervisors:
- Prof. Dr. Gert Zöller
- Prof. Dr. Matthias Holschneider
- PD Dr. Sebastian Hainzl
Project B11
Understanding Time-Varying Earth System Properties Using Data Assimilation
Fields: Hydrology, Data Assimilation, Applied Mathematics
Supervisors:
- Prof. Dr. Thorsten Wagener
- Prof. Dr. Sebastian Reich
Location
- Primary Location: University of Potsdam, Germany
- Additional Collaboration Site (B04): GFZ Helmholtz Centre for Geosciences, Potsdam
- Campuses: Am Neuen Palais, Griebnitzsee, and Golm
Eligibility / Qualification
General Requirements
- Ph.D. degree completed by the start date
- Strong motivation for interdisciplinary research
- Excellent written and spoken English
- Ability to work collaboratively in an international research environment
Project-Specific Requirements
B04 Position
- Ph.D. in Mathematics, Mathematical Statistics, or Geophysics
- Strong background in statistics, probability theory, and numerical methods
- Experience in scientific computing (preferably Python)
B11 Position
- Ph.D. in Mathematics, Statistics, or Hydrological Modelling
- Strong interest in data assimilation or Earth system science
- Openness to interdisciplinary methodological research
Job Description
General Responsibilities
- Conduct high-quality postdoctoral research within CRC 1294
- Collaborate across disciplines and partner institutions
- Publish results in peer-reviewed journals
- Participate in conferences, workshops, and international exchanges
- Contribute to CRC research activities and graduate training
Specific Responsibilities
B04
- Extend and apply the GP-ETAS Bayesian seismicity model
- Identify key forecast-driving components and design reduced models
- Implement probabilistic earthquake forecasts on the CSEP platform
B11
- Develop tailored data assimilation strategies for hydrological models
- Analyze time-varying Earth system properties
- Design diagnostic tools to improve large-scale hydrological modeling
🕒 Workload: 40 hours/week
📚 Career Development: At least one-third of working time reserved for independent research (Habilitation possible)
How to Apply
Applications must be submitted by email as one single PDF file to:
Required Documents
- Statement of research interests and motivation
- Full academic CV
- Names and email addresses of at least two referees (including reference letters)
- Academic transcripts
- Link to Master’s/Diploma thesis
- List of publications, talks, or presentations (if available)
⚠️ Important: Clearly indicate which project(s) you are applying for (e.g., “B04” or “B11”).
Last Date for Apply
📅 15 January 2026
- Evaluation begins immediately after the deadline
- Interviews will be held within three weeks (online interviews via Zoom possible)
Equal Opportunity Statement
The University of Potsdam is committed to diversity and equal opportunity. Applications from women, individuals with disabilities, international candidates, and applicants with a migration background are strongly encouraged.
