Scientific Position (PhD or Postdoctoral level) (m/f/d)

(Position number: 05-2026 Researcher Marine Biodiversity)

on the topic of Marine Biodiversity and Ecosystem Resilience, ideally starting on 01.04.2026.

The position will be filled either at PhD or postdoctoral level, depending on qualifications. Postdoctoral positions are funded for up to 2 years, PhD positions for 3 years. Remuneration is in accordance with the German public tariff scheme (TV-L Brandenburg), salary group E 13 (75% PhD position, 100% postdoctoral level). This is a full-time position with a working time of 40 hours per week. The position can be filled on a part-time basis.

Background

The project The Role of the Ocean in Earth System Stability investigates how ocean heat and carbon uptake, circulation changes, and biosphere feedbacks may push the Earth system toward critical thresholds. Within this project, work package 1 focuses on the resilience of the marine sinks of heat and carbon, using Earth system and biogeochemical models, observational data, and scenario analysis to identify early-warning signals and tipping points relevant to the Planetary Boundaries framework. Complementing this, work package 2 addresses marine biodiversity, ecosystem health, and biosphere functioning by developing and testing indicators of ecosystem resilience and systemic risk, linking biological change to Earth system stability.

This position is one of several scientific positions within the project and will be embedded in a closely collaborating interdisciplinary team.

Key responsibilities:

• conduct research on marine biodiversity, ecosystem resilience, and systemic risks within work package 2
• contribute marine biodiversity expertise to the project research agenda
• advise on suitable biodiversity data, indicators, models, and methods relevant to Earth system stability
• support the identification, evaluation, and prototyping of marine biodiversity indicators
• Contribute to synthesis activities linking biodiversity, multiple stressors, and the Planetary Boundaries framework
• Postdoctoral level: Provide scientific guidance within work package 2 and potentially co-supervise a PhD student
• PhD level: Develop a focused doctoral project embedded within work package 2

Requirements:

Master’s degree or PhD in marine biology, ecology, biogeochemistry, oceanography, or a related field.

strong interest in marine biodiversity, Earth system science, and interdisciplinary research

Ability to work with complex ecological or environmental datasets

experience with data analysis is expected; familiarity with scientific programming environments (e.g. Python, R, or similar) is highly desirable

interest in policy-relevant science and sustainability frameworks

strong motivation to collaborate across disciplines

PhD level:

• Experience working with ecological or environmental datasets

Postdoctoral level:

• Proven expertise in marine biodiversity data and indicators
• Experience with Earth system models and/or regional modelling frameworks
• Model development experience is an asset

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 English
• reliability, engagement, and a high level of motivation
• capacity for teamwork

We offer:

• close integration into the Planetary Boundaries Science Lab and opportunities to contribute to high-visibility synthesis products such as the Planetary Health Check
• the opportunity to complete a high-quality dissertation within an excellent, collaborative, and transdisciplinary research environment for PhDs
• a lively community of PhD students on the campus, offering the chance to engage and connect – our PhD Representatives offer information and advice when needed
• the chance to be part of an engaged, interdisciplinary team,
• a stimulating working environment in an internationally recognised research institute on Potsdam's beautiful, historic Telegrafenberg campus, a short commuting distance from Berlin
• company KITA/kids day nursery “Geolino” directly in the science park on Telegrafenberg, within walking distance of PIK
• flexi-time and mobile working (up to 50% of your hours)
• a collective pay scheme and associated benefits as well as 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 18.03.2026 directly via our application form below this job advertisement on our website. The application process remains open until the position is filled.

For further information or to discuss the position, please contact Dr. Sabine Mathesius.