Job Description

InstitutionFaculty of Mathematics, Informatics and Natural Sciences, Department of Earth System Sciences, Institute of Soil Science
Salary levelEGR. 13 TV-L
Start date01.03.2026 (negotiable), fixed for a period of three years (This is a fixed-term contract in accordance with Section 2 of the academic fixed-term labor contract act [Wissenschaftszeitvertragsgesetz, WissZeitVG]).
Application deadline27.11.2025
Scope of workfull-time position suitable for part-time
Your responsibilities


Duties include academic services in the project named above. Research associates may also pursue independent research and further academic qualifications.



We are looking for a PostDoc working in the project “PeTCaT – Rapid Permafrost Thaw Carbon Trajectories”, a large, international consortium project funded by Schmidt Sciences. The PostDoc position will be part of the working group “Dynamics of Soil Processes” at the University of Hamburg. PeTCaT aims at closing key knowledge gaps and at reducing uncertainties in arctic component of the carbon cycle. PeTCaT will quantify and project the development of rapid thaw processes on a panarctic scale and address their impact on greenhouse gas production and release. The project aims at understanding permafrost vulnerability and carbon budgets at a global scale. The work will be conducted in close cooperation with the Alfred Wegener Institute (AWI) in Potsdam, and international project partners in Canada, USA, Sweden and the Netherlands. At the University of Hamburg, the PostDoc will work in a team consisting of senior scientists, PostDocs, PhD students and technicians.



The research associate will contribute to work package 6 “Modeling of Carbon-Climate Feedback”.



The successful candidate will work in a dynamic team of experts, and use state-of-the-art laboratory facilities.



The research associate is expected to collaborate closely with team members and project partners. Scientific results have to be presented in scientific meetings and conferences as well as through publications in scientific journals. We expect the candidate to be able to independently design scientific experiments. The PostDoc may also be involved in student supervision if desired. Applicants must have very good English language skills in speaking and writing.


Your profile


A university degree in a relevant field, plus doctorate.



We seek enthusiastic applicants with a PhD in a relevant field of science and expertise in:


biogeochemical processes in high-latitude ecosystems dynamic modelling of terrestrial ecosystems We offer

Reliable remuneration based on wage agreements Continuing education opportunities University pensions Attractive location Flexible working hours Work-life balance opportunities Health management, EGYM Wellpass Educational leave 30 days of vacation per annum
Universität Hamburg—University of Excellence is one of the strongest research educational institutions in Germany. Our work in research, teaching, educational and knowledge exchange activities is fostering the next generation of responsible global citizens ready to tackle the global challenges facing us. Our guiding principle “Innovating and Cooperating for a Sustainable Future in a digital age” drives collaboration with academic and nonacademic partner institutions in the Hamburg Metropolitan Region and around the world. We would like to invite you to be part of our community to work with us in creating sustainable and digital change for a dynamic and pluralist society.



The University of Hamburg is committed to equity. Diversity enriches our university life, whether in our studies, research, teaching, education, or workplace. We therefore welcome all applications, regardless of gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, ethnic or social background, age, religion or belief, disability, or chronic illness.


Severely disabled and disabled applicants with the same status will receive preference over equally qualified non-disabled applicants.


Instructions for applying


Contact


Prof. Dr. Christian Beer



christian.beer@uni-hamburg.de



+49 40 42838-2699


PD Dr. Christian Knoblauch



christian.knoblauch@uni-hamburg.de



+49 40 42838-2277


Reference number


338
Location


Allende-Platz 2

20146 Hamburg



Application deadline


27.11.2025
Use only the online application form to submit your application with the following documents:


cover letter (detailing your motivation and research ideas) CV, including names and contact details of three references copies of degree certificate(s) list of publications

If you experience technical problems, send an email to bewerbungen@uni-hamburg.de.