Several PhD Positions Fully Funded at the University of Hamburg & Max Planck Institute for Meteorology, Germany
The International Max Planck Research School on Earth System Modelling (IMPRS-ESM) is inviting applications for its fully funded PhD positions beginning in Spring 2027. The program is jointly offered by the University of Hamburg and the Max Planck Institute for Meteorology (MPI-M), providing doctoral researchers with world-class training in climate science and Earth system modelling.
If you are passionate about understanding climate processes, environmental systems, numerical modelling, or interdisciplinary Earth system research, this is an outstanding opportunity to pursue a PhD at two of Germany’s most prestigious research institutions. Application Deadline: 15 September 2026
Program Overview
| Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Position | Research Associate (PhD Candidate) |
| Program | International Max Planck Research School on Earth System Modelling (IMPRS-ESM) |
| Institutions | University of Hamburg & Max Planck Institute for Meteorology |
| Country | Germany |
| Start Date | Spring 2027 (or individually agreed) |
| Contract Duration | Initial 3-year employment contract |
| Employment Type | Part-time (65% of full-time hours) |
| Salary | E13 TV-L or TVöD |
| Application Deadline | 15 September 2026 |
About the IMPRS-ESM Program
The International Max Planck Research School on Earth System Modelling (IMPRS-ESM) is one of Europe’s leading doctoral programs dedicated to understanding the Earth’s climate system. The program combines expertise from the University of Hamburg and the Max Planck Institute for Meteorology to provide an interdisciplinary research environment where doctoral researchers study climate dynamics, environmental change, and predictive Earth system modelling. Students work alongside internationally recognized scientists while gaining advanced research and professional development skills.
Why Choose IMPRS-ESM?
The IMPRS-ESM doctoral program offers much more than a traditional PhD.
Participants benefit from:
- An interdisciplinary research environment
- Close collaboration with internationally renowned climate scientists
- Structured doctoral training
- Access to state-of-the-art scientific facilities
- Opportunities to develop transferable research and professional skills
- An international academic community with English as the primary language of instruction
The program is designed to prepare researchers for careers in academia, research institutes, government agencies, and the private sector.
Research Areas
PhD candidates can contribute to a wide range of research topics related to Earth system science.
Areas of research include:
- Climate modelling
- Earth system modelling
- Atmospheric sciences
- Oceanography
- Meteorology
- Climate dynamics
- Numerical simulations
- Environmental modelling
- Large-scale data analysis
- Statistical modelling
- Climate prediction
- Ecosystem interactions
- Environmental economics
- Climate policy and governance
The interdisciplinary structure allows students from different scientific backgrounds to collaborate on complex global challenges.
Responsibilities
As a Research Associate, your primary responsibility will be conducting original scientific research toward a doctoral degree.
During the program, you will:
- Conduct independent research within your selected project
- Work toward completing a PhD dissertation
- Collaborate with supervisors and interdisciplinary research teams
- Analyze complex environmental and climate datasets
- Develop numerical and computational models
- Present research findings at conferences and workshops
- Publish scientific articles in peer-reviewed journals
- Participate in seminars, training sessions, and doctoral school activities
At least one-third of your contracted working hours are reserved for your own academic research and dissertation work.
Who Can Apply?
The IMPRS-ESM welcomes applicants from a broad range of scientific disciplines. Eligible applicants should hold, or be close to completing, a Master’s degree (or equivalent) in fields such as:
- Physics
- Meteorology
- Oceanography
- Geophysical Sciences
- Ecology
- Mathematics
- Computer Science
- Engineering
- Economics
- Political Science
- Environmental Sciences
- Other closely related disciplines
Applicants should demonstrate a strong interest in Earth system research and scientific problem-solving.
Ideal Candidate Profile
Successful applicants typically have:
- An excellent academic record
- Strong analytical and quantitative skills
- Passion for climate and Earth system science
- Interest in interdisciplinary research
- Ability to work independently and collaboratively
- Motivation to complete a rigorous doctoral program
Prior experience in programming, numerical modelling, statistics, or data science can be an advantage, depending on the chosen research project.
Salary and Employment Conditions
Doctoral researchers are employed under the German public sector salary agreements. Employment benefits include:
- Salary under E13 TV-L or TVöD
- Three-year employment contract
- 65% of standard full-time working hours
- University pension scheme
- 30 days of annual paid leave
- Flexible working hours
- Work-life balance initiatives
- Continuing education opportunities
- Health management programs, including EGYM Wellpass
- Educational leave
The employing institution—either the University of Hamburg or the Max Planck Institute for Meteorology—will determine the applicable pay agreement.
World-Class Research Environment
The University of Hamburg is recognized as a University of Excellence, while the Max Planck Institute for Meteorology is internationally respected for climate and Earth system research. Students gain access to:
- Advanced climate modelling facilities
- High-performance computing resources
- International collaborations
- Interdisciplinary research teams
- Leading climate scientists
- Modern laboratories and research infrastructure
Hamburg also provides an excellent quality of life, making it one of Europe’s most attractive cities for international researchers.
Professional Development
In addition to research, IMPRS-ESM emphasizes career development through:
- Scientific workshops
- Research seminars
- Communication training
- Programming and computational courses
- International networking
- Career mentoring
- Transferable skills development
All training is conducted in English, making the program highly accessible to international students.
Required Application Documents
Applications must be submitted through the online application system.
Prepare the following documents:
- Motivation letter
- Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Copies of degree certificates
- Two reference letters
- Reference letters may be submitted until 20 September 2026, even though the application deadline is earlier.
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Important Dates
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Application Deadline | 15 September 2026 |
| Reference Letter Deadline | 20 September 2026 |
| Program Start | Spring 2027 (or individually agreed) |
| Contract Duration | 3 Years |
Applicants are encouraged to submit their applications well before the deadline to ensure all required materials are received on time.
Why Study in Hamburg?
Hamburg is one of Germany’s leading scientific and innovation hubs. As a doctoral researcher, you will benefit from:
- An international academic environment
- Excellent public transportation
- Strong research collaborations
- High quality of life
- Access to Europe’s leading climate research institutions
- Opportunities for professional networking and career development
Commitment to Diversity and Equal Opportunity
The University of Hamburg and the Max Planck Institute for Meteorology are committed to fostering an inclusive and equitable research environment. Applications are welcomed regardless of gender, nationality, ethnicity, disability, religion, or social background. The institutions actively encourage applications from women in science and provide equal opportunities for all qualified candidates. Applicants with severe disabilities will receive preference where legally applicable.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is the IMPRS-ESM PhD program fully funded?
Yes. Successful applicants are employed as Research Associates and receive a salary under the German E13 TV-L or TVöD public sector pay scale.
How long is the PhD contract?
The initial employment contract is three years, beginning in Spring 2027 or on an individually agreed start date.
Which universities are involved?
The program is jointly organized by the University of Hamburg and the Max Planck Institute for Meteorology (MPI-M).
What research topics are available?
Research projects cover climate modelling, Earth system science, meteorology, oceanography, environmental modelling, numerical simulations, ecology, climate prediction, and related interdisciplinary fields.
Which academic backgrounds are eligible?
Applicants with a Master’s degree in physics, geophysical sciences, meteorology, oceanography, ecology, mathematics, computer science, engineering, economics, political science, or related disciplines are encouraged to apply.
What is the workload?
The position is 65% of standard full-time working hours, allowing dedicated time for doctoral research.
What documents are required?
Applicants must submit a motivation letter, CV, copies of degree certificates, and arrange for two reference letters.
When are reference letters due?
Reference letters can be submitted until 20 September 2026, even though the application itself must be submitted by 15 September 2026.
Is English required?
Yes. The doctoral program is international, and training, supervision, and scientific communication are conducted primarily in English.
Why should I choose IMPRS-ESM?
IMPRS-ESM offers world-class supervision, structured doctoral training, interdisciplinary research opportunities, excellent funding, international collaboration, and access to one of the world’s leading climate research communities, making it an exceptional choice for aspiring Earth system scientists.
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