PostDoc (m/f/d) | Mediterranean Digital Twin Network for Understanding Climate Extremes

The Max Planck Institute for Biogeochemistry (MPI-BGC) in Jena is dedicated to interdisciplinary fundamental research in the field of Earth system sciences with a focus on climate and ecosystems. The internationally renowned institute, which currently employs around 250 people, celebrated its 25th anniversary in 2022. Jena is known for high-tech industry, internationally renowned research institutions and a modern university, but it also has a beautiful natural setting in the green Saale valley with steep limestone slopes. The city of Jena has an active student scene and a diverse cultural life. We are looking to recruit as soon as possible PostDoc (m/f/d) in full time/part time possible; fix term position, 2 years.

Background and position description

The Model Data Integration group (MDI) of the Department of Biogeochemical Integration (BGI) at the Max Planck Institute for Biogeochemistry in Jena offers a project related position open for a Postdoctoral Researcher in the context of a Horizon Europe project: MeDiTwin – Mediterranean Digital Twin Network for Understanding Climate Extremes.
MeDiTwin leverages AI for Earth Observation, emphasizing physics-guided ML, explainable AI, and causality. MeDiTwin is a cooperation between four partners from different European institutions focused on different aspects of Earth system sciences: Earth system modeling, explainable AI, Digital Twin Technology, Climate Extremes and Wildfires. In addition to research, it emphasizes a training and capacity-building agenda. The collaboration is centered on the development and utilization of the proposed Mediterranean Digital Twin to deepen our understanding of Earth's processes, especially in the context of climate change.

The current position focuses on exploring physics-guided ML approaches, e.g. hybrid modeling, to investigate the drivers and impacts of wildfire dynamics on biogeochemical cycles in terrestrial ecosystems. The ultimate goal is to improve understanding, diagnostic ability and predictions of fire and climate extremes impacts in the Mediterranean region.

Underpinning our goals is the integration of multivariate observation streams, from carbon flux data to EO-based observations, with ecological and physical process understanding towards an enhanced representation of wildfire and climate extremes impacts in the regional dynamics of carbon and water cycles. To achieve its goals, the MeDiTwin brings together experts in copernicus climate change services, observations, simulation and AI/ML methods.

A significant aspect of the position is the contribution to training activities, the communication of scientific results, as well as the scientific organization of workshops, to promote knowledge exchange and networking.

This is an appointment within the MDI group at the BGI. We are involved in development of advanced methods and datasets towards a better understanding of Earth system dynamics. In particular, we are actively involved in researching the use and development of machine and deep learning (ML/DL) approaches to model, parameterize and analyze large datasets on Earth system dynamics, with an emphasis on modeling terrestrial ecosystems and biogeochemical processes.

Your tasks

• Investigate and model processes underpinning wildfire temporal dynamics.
• Develop a hybrid modeling, or physics-guided ML, approach for modeling the impacts pf wildfire dynamics and climate extremes on ecosystem carbon and water dynamics.
• Maximize the intake of carbon and water flux data and EO-based observations to improve model structures and parameterizations.
• Disseminate results via conference communications and publications in scientific journals.
• Develop teaching materials and offer trainings for students and ECRs.
• Assume responsibilities on project communication, reporting and deliverables.

Your profile

• Successfully completed PhD in climate science, meteorology, computer science, environmental science, geoecology, biology, geography or comparable fields
• Expertise in statistical analysis and modeling: statistical and/or process-based modeling, be that focused on land or the Earth system
• Experience in analysis of climate extremes impacts, and/or fire dynamics; focus in the dynamics of Mediterranean regions is very valuable
• Experience in data assimilation or in machine learning, can be very beneficial
• Some experience in teaching or tutoring; related communication and dissemination activities can also be considered such as contributions to workshops, hackathon organization seminars, etc.
• Practical experience in scientific programming and data processing (data analysis and processing with e.g. Python, Julia, R, MATLAB)
• Affinity towards teamwork; collaborative and responsible culture
• Ability to work both independently and as part of a team
• Very good communication skills (oral and written) in English

Our offer

The abovementioned project started on September 01, 2024 and we hope for the position to be filled as soon as possible. The current position duration of two years could be extended given upcoming projects and other opportunities. Part-time work is generally possible. The position will be evaluated and graded following the collective agreement according to TVöD Bund; in addition, we will provide a pension plan based on the public service (VBL).

The Max Planck Society (MPS) strives for gender equality and diversity. The MPS aims to increase the proportion of women in areas where they are underrepresented. Women are therefore explicitly encouraged to apply. We welcome applications from all fields. The Max Planck Society has set itself the goal of employing more severely disabled people. Applications from severely disabled persons are expressly encouraged.

Your application

Any further inquiries about the position and/or expectations are very welcome and can be directed to Dr. Nuno Carvalhais (BGI-MDI, ncarvalhais@bgc-jena.mpg.de). Are you interested? Please send us your application with cover letter, curriculum vitae as well a s names and contact information of two references summarised in a PDF file (max. 10 MB) by October 23, 2024, quoting the reference number 18/2024 by e-mail to bewerbung@bgc-jena.mpg.de or to the

Max Planck Institute for Biogeochemistry
Personalbüro: Kennwort “PostDoc”
Hans-Knöll-Straße 10
07745 Jena
Germany

We ask that you do not use application folders, but only submit copies, as your documents will be destroyed in accordance with data protection regulations after the application process has been completed. We look forward to receiving your application!