Postdoctoral Researcher (f_m_x) - AI-based analysis of complex systems

Position Overview

GFZ is Germany's national centre for solid Earth research. We advance the understanding of dynamic processes to address global challenges, from mitigating the impacts of natural hazards to responsibly managing georesources. We are part of the Helmholtz Association, the largest German scientific organisation. With around 1,200 employees and roughly 500 guest researchers, we contribute to the Helmholtz Research Field Earth and Environment, aligning cutting‑edge research with societal relevance and international collaboration.

In Department 5 "Geoinformation" we are looking for a Postdoctoral Researcher in Artificial Intelligence (Reference Number 11336).

Area of Research

Artificial intelligence (AI) methods have the potential to significantly advance and transform Earth system sciences. The goal of this position is to develop data‑driven approaches to AI‑based analysis of complex interaction systems and suitable hybrid architectures for this purpose.

Responsibilities

• Conduct research in method development for physics‑informed/physics‑aware AI.
• Develop generative AI methods in interdisciplinary research projects.
• Publish research papers in relevant academic journals and at conferences.
• Participate in the application process for national and international research projects.
• Participate in GFZ‑wide AI projects.

Essential Qualifications

• A Master’s degree and a PhD in Data Science, Mathematics, Computer Science, Physics, or a related field.
• In‑depth knowledge of current AI methodology (Deep Learning, generative AI, Explainable AI, etc.) and relevant programming frameworks.
• Advanced programming skills in Python, HPC/GPU programming, and big‑data applications.
• Strong team spirit and experience in interdisciplinary collaboration.
• Fluent in spoken and written English.

Desirable Qualifications

• Knowledge of German.
• Experience in scientific research in physics‑informed/physics‑aware AI.
• Experience with interdisciplinary research projects.
• Solid understanding of data‑driven modelling and related mathematical and statistical methods.

Compensation and Benefits

• Ambitious and varied tasks in a dynamic and international research environment.
• Public service benefits.
• Extensive training opportunities.
• Professional career advice offered by our in‑house Career‑Centre.
• Flexible working hours and conditions; suitable for part‑time work.
• Support with work‑life balance.
• Workplace at the Albert Einstein Science Park on the Telegrafenberg in Potsdam, within walking distance of the main train station or a short shuttle bus ride.

Start date : As soon as possible
Fixed‑term : 3 years
Salary : Position classed as salary group 13 according to “TVöD Bund”.
Working hours : Full‑time (currently 39 h/week); generally suitable for part‑time work.
Place of work : Potsdam

Equal Opportunity Statement

The GFZ actively promotes diversity and explicitly welcomes applications from all qualified individuals, irrespective of ethnic and social origin, nationality, gender, sexual orientation and identity, religion/belief, age or physical characteristics. Anyone who has been recognised as severely disabled will be given preferential consideration in the event of equal suitability and qualification in accordance with the provisions of the German Social Code IX. If you have any further queries regarding gender equality, please contact our Equal Opportunities Officer.