Postdoc in Modelling Land Surface Hydrology

The Max-Planck-Institute for Biogeochemistry in Jena, Germany, invites applications for a postdoctoral scientist in the Biospheric Theory and Modelling Group for the project “Thermodynamics and Soil-Vegetation-Atmosphere Transfer processes” within the “Catchments As Organized Systems (CAOS)” research unit.

The successful candidate will work on the application and development of thermodynamics and optimality principles to processes within land surface hydrology and vegetation models. This research will build upon the extensive knowledge of non-equilibrium thermodynamics and optimality approaches within atmosphere-biosphere interactions within the group. Specific topics to investigate include the thermodynamic formulation of soil-vegetation-atmosphere transfer processes, testing of thermodynamic optimality and maximization principles with models and comparison to data, self-organization, heterogeneity, and/or the organization of river networks and other preferential flow structures.

A PhD degree in Earth system science or related fields is required. Familiarity with FORTRAN 90 and the Unix environment are required as well as fluent proficiency of the English language. Preference will be given to candidates with a proven publication record of creative research and experience in vegetation/land surface/climate system modeling with an emphasis on hydrology and/or theoretical and modelling interests.

The position is available as soon as January 1, 2012. The position is available for three years and is similar to a civil service position (TVöD E13/E14, level according to experience) including extensive social security plans and generous funds for equipment, publications, and travel. The conditions of employment, including promotion and extensions follow the rules of the Max Planck Society for the Advancement of Sciences and those of the German civil service. The Max-Planck-Society seeks to increase the number of female scientists and encourages them to apply. The Max Planck Society is committed to employing more handicapped individuals and especially encourages them to apply.

For best consideration, please submit your application, including a brief statement of your interest in this position and field of research, curriculum vitae and the contact details for two academic referees before November 30th, 2011 in electronic form to Axel Kleidon (akleidon@bgc-jena.mpg.de).

Further information about our research group can be found on the group’s web page at http://www.bgc-jena.mpg.de/bgc-theory.