The Leibniz Centre for Tropical Marine Research (ZMT) GmbH (www.leibniz-zmt.de) is an independent research and teaching institute that provides scientific knowledge for the protection and sustainable use of tropical coastal ecosystems. To this end, we work in an inter- and transdisciplinary manner with our partners in the tropics. The ZMT is a member of the Leibniz Association.
Starting in January 2025, the strategic institute extension ‘Modelling socio-economic dimensions across Tropical Coastal Ecosystems and the Earth System - TropEcS’ has been implemented at ZMT. With this extension (Sondertatbestand), ZMT is strengthening its capacities in the field of modelling and adding predictive aspects to its existing research programmes. The institute’s five Programme Areas (PAs) are interdisciplinary and work collaboratively towards achieving ZMT’s mission. This position will be located in and contributing to PA 5 on ’Ocean Literacy, Equity and Leadership’ which is about understanding and integrating various kinds of knowledges, their contributions to societal impact of ZMT’s research, and further developing capacities and partnerships that are required for sustainable oceans and coasts for generations to come. As a driving force at ZMT for societal impact and transdisciplinary research, PA5 is developing its expertise to contribute to TropEcS and its related exciting research developments, for which we are now looking to fill (subject to release of funds) the position of an:
Experienced social science modeller (gn)
(Reference: 15-STB-PB5-PD)
Your tasks:
- Conduct research using social science and qualitative modelling approaches for complex social-ecological systems (SES) of tropical coastal zones in Peru, Colombia and Indonesia;
- Scenario development and Horizon Scanning – to systematically identify potential ("desired") futures for TropEcS’ coastal SES;
- Qualitative and/or SES data synthesis and integration across modelling-oriented knowledge systems, PAs and research infrastructure;
- Supporting the implementation of the STB TropEcS:
- Contribute to or lead on scenario development based on different knowledge systems within TropEcS,
- Joint method and training development across PAs (e.g. on participatory modelling approaches, agent-based modelling),
- Joint publication of results across PAs in scientific journals and policy paper series;
- Support the complementarity between the diverse SES modelling aspects within TropEcS;
- Develop research-based policy advice with the project regions;
- Co-creation of further transformative research avenues within TropEcS and PA 5.
Requirements:
- Doctoral degree in social sciences (incl. economics), social-ecological modelling, environmental psychology, or related field;
- Experience in SES modelling, e.g., in qualitative network modelling, participatory modelling, and/or Bayesian belief networks;
- Experience in scenario development approaches, e.g. SSPs;
- Experience in the application of R-based analytical tools for qualitative or semi-quantitative modelling, incl. RQDA;
- Capability to discuss and co-develop models across disciplines;
- Willingness for international travel and working experience in tropical countries;
- Excellent communication and writing skills in English;
- Strong interest in fostering South-South exchange and collaborations across various disciplinary and geographical borders.
Desirable qualifications:
- Experience in project management;
- Communication, co-operation and conflict resolution skills;
- An interest in transdisciplinary research approaches, e.g., in the connection of Ocean art and modelling;
- Working knowledge of Spanish and/or Bahasa / Indonesian would be an asset.
Further information:
For questions, please contact Dr. Annette Breckwoldt, email: [email protected]
Details of position:
Salary will be paid according to the German TV-L (EG 13). The position is available for full-time, with a possibility of part-time employment with not less than 75% of a full position. Employment will start on 1 August 2025 with a duration until 31 December 2028. The fixed term is for academic qualification according to § 2 (1) WissZeitVG (Wissen-schaftszeitvertragsgesetz). Accordingly, only applicants who still have the relevant qualification periods according to § 2 (1) WissZeitVG can be considered.
ZMT is an equal opportunity employer. Applicants with a migration background are welcome. Persons with severe disabilities are given special consideration if they have the same professional and personal qualifications. The ZMT values its diverse workforce and pursues the goal of providing equal opportunity, which incorporates gender neutrality (gn). We will be happy to accept your documents without a photo.
We offer:
- A challenging and varied job in an international, dynamic and interdisciplinary research environment
- A motivated and committed team from different countries and cultures
- An open and cooperative working atmosphere
- Opportunities for personal and professional development
- Interesting, varied and challenging tasks and family-friendly working conditions
- Company pension plan (VBL)
- Company health promotion and the opportunity to participate in company fitness with EGYM Wellpass
Submission of application:
Please submit a cover letter with your motivation, CV, summary of your doctoral project(s)/dissertation(s), the names of two referees; letters of recommendation are also welcome. Please submit your application by 31 May 2025 as a single pdf file with the reference number “15-STB-PB5-PD” to Ms. Lena de Carné-Oehlmann, email: bewerb[email protected].
Leibniz Centre for Tropical Marine Research, Fahrenheitstraße 6, D-28359 Bremen.
