Leibniz Institute for Baltic Sea Research (IOW), Warnemünde

Job posting (Phy 01/2026)

The Leibniz Institute for Baltic Sea Research Warnemünde (IOW) has a temporary vacancy from April 01, 2026

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, subject to the funding of the project.

Who are we?

The Leibniz Institute for Baltic Sea Research Warnemünde (IOW) is an independent research institute within the Leibniz Association. Our research focuses on coastal and marginal seas, particularly the Baltic Sea. The staff of the five departments – Physical Oceanography, Marine Chemistry, Biological Oceanography, and Marine Geosciences – as well as the Marine Observation Department, work interdisciplinarily within the framework of a joint research programme. Equal opportunities, family-friendliness, and work-life balance are of great importance to us.

What will be your tasks?

Within the framework of the project "Sediment–Wave Interactions in the Baltic Sea (SWIBS)" you will simulate wave-induced sediment transport in the practically non-tidal shallow waters of the Baltic Sea, to better understand the interaction between sediment and water column and to predict the sediment deposition in shipping channels. You will couple an existing coastal ocean model with an existing wave model and extend it by a module for sediment transport. Continuously collected field data and satellite remote sensing data will help you validate the model simulations. You will carry out this work within our ECOP (Processes in Estuaries and Coastal Seas) working group within the Physical Oceanography department at IOW, in cooperation with the Federal Waterways Engineering and Research Institute (BAW) in Hamburg, Coastal Branch, which also funds the project, and in international cooperation with the University of Victoria in Canada. In addition to coupling the models and planning and executing the simulations, your primary responsibilities will include analysing and interpreting the results, and ultimately publishing and presenting them at national and international conferences. The work to be carried out ideally combines methods and theories from basic research with aspects of BAW's applied research.

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 skills, good programming skills and the ability to work in a team. Preferable would be a sound background in geophysical fluid dynamics, experience in numerical ocean or atmospheric modelling, and experience with numerical data analysis. Good scientific presentation, writing, and communication skills are also an advantage.

What does IOW offer?

The IOW offers you a varied workplace in the immediate vicinity of the Baltic Sea with flexible working arrangements, the option of mobile working, company health programs, an annual bonus, pension plan, 30 days of vacation per year, time off on Christmas Eve and New Year's Eve, as well as qualification and further training opportunities. You will find a friendly working atmosphere with short communication channels and binding decisions, a cafeteria, free parking, and support services for balancing work and family life. Excellent infrastructure with modern laboratory and office equipment, including on our own research vessel, provides the framework for optimal working conditions.

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

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 01/2026 by January 27, 2026

Human Resources Department

Unfortunately, we cannot cover your application and travel costs.

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