Postdoctoral Researcher*in in enhanced modeling of coupled ecosystem feedbacks in peatlands (m/f/d)

Postdoctoral Researcher in enhanced modeling of coupled ecosystem feedbacks in peatlands (m/f/d)

• Full or Part Time

• Berlin

• With Professional Experience

• 12/16/24

The research group “Landscape Ecohydrology”, led by Professor Dörthe Tetzlaff, in the Department of Ecohydrology & Biogeochemistry of IGB (Leibniz Institute for Freshwater Ecology and Inland Fisheries) in Berlin is inviting applications for the position of a Postdoctoral Research Fellow (24 months, with option for extension, fulltime with part-time option) starting from 01.04.2025. The project is part of a major project funded by the German Research Foundation (DFG) “WETSCAPES2.0: Sinks, links and legacies of novel ecosystems in rewetted fen landscapes”. WETSCAPES2.0 combines expertise from the Universities of Greifswald and Rostock, the IGB Berlin, GFZ Potsdam, LMU München, the MPI for Biogeochemistry Jena and the Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin. WETSCAPES2.0 focusses on the functional understanding of rewetted fens, including coastal peatlands. The rewetting of previously drained and often agriculturally used fens results in the development of novel ecosystems that differ from natural peatlands and are largely unexplored. In our research we will address biogeochemical, hydrological and biological processes, focusing on water and matter fluxes within and beyond the peat body and their associated microbiological and biological drivers. In addition to site-level studies, the role of rewetted fens in the broader landscape is investigated. For more details about the overarching research questions, specific topics, training program and contact persons please visit http://www.uni-greifswald.de/wetscapes2.

The advertised position aims specifically to: (i) quantify physical and biogeochemical process-interactions and feedbacks between peatlands, their landscapes and beyond; (ii) identify challenges and uncertainties in quantifying these feedbacks at larger and across scales via multiple, integrated modeling approaches; (iii) use process-based models as learning frameworks by informing and enhancing data collection and experimental setup schemes as well as model structures to reduce uncertainties in the future. This project is a close collaboration between IGB, University of Greifswald and LMU Muenich.

We seek a dynamic, motivated and ambitious young scientist to join existing interdisciplinary science and modelling teams at IGB to support the use of tracer-aided ecohydrological modelling in peatlands linking this to land surface models. Research visits to LUM Muenich and University Greifswald are supported. It is expected that the modelling will utilise existing data sets from instrumented peatland research sites. The successful candidate will have experience in the development and application of numerical models for different purposes, across various scales and environmental science contexts. We expect you to be experienced in combining process-based understanding with strong numerical / computational skills. Experience with programming is essential. Expertise in remote sensing & data assimilation and / or incorporation of tracers into hydrological models would be advantageous. Access to high-performance computer clusters is available to facilitate use and development of “state of the art” research models.

Your role 

• Applying and linking tracer-aided modelling with land surface models
• Assessing the effects of land use and climatic variability on different physical-chemical-ecological processes of rewetted peatland landscapes

Your profile

• A PhD or equivalent (or being close to receiving a PhD) in hydrology, geoecology physics, or a related field of environmental science or environmental engineering
• Excellent programming and numerical skills
• Experience in the development and application of numerical models at various scales and different environmental science contexts
• A strong publication record in internationally leading journals (commensurate with career stage)
• Strong English language skills both in oral and written communication
• Ability to work in a team environment

Other advantageous attributes include:

• Experience in research in wetlands or fens
• Experience in multi-criteria calibration and working within uncertainty frameworks
• Experience in incorporating tracers into hydrological models
• Experience of working in interdisciplinary research projects
• Evidence of successful research collaboration with national and international researchers and stakeholders

Our offer

We offer an interesting position in an international and dynamic scientific environment. We foster flat hierarchies and active participation. We allow maximum individual freedom, enabling everyone to develop and use their creativity to the best of their abilities.

Salary is paid according to the German salary scheme for the public sector (TVöD Bund, E13). It is a full-time position with 39 working hours per week (less % possible). The position is available from 01.04.2025 for 24 months based in Germany, with the possibility of extension.

Are you interested?

Questions can be directed to Professor Dörthe Tetzlaff by e-mail (do*****.********ff@ig*-******in.de).