PhD position: Scientific Discovery in Earth System Science: Applying Deep Learning Technologies in...

Work group:

IBG-3 - Agrosphäre

Area of research:

PHD Thesis,IT - EDV

Job description:

You want to apply your data science knowledge to the basic research questions and societal challenges of our modern world? Our scientists in HDS-LEE address some of the most pressing issues of our time, such as energy transition, climate change and resource scarcity, brain function, drug design, identification of diseases at very early stages. As Helmholtz School for Data Science in Life, Earth and Energy (HDS-LEE), we aim to educate and train the next generation of data scientists during their doctoral thesis in close contact to domain-specific knowledge and research in three application domains: Life and medical science, earth science, energy systems and material science. Visit HDS-LEE at: https://www.hds-lee.de/This ">www.hds-lee.de/This HDS-LEE PhD position will be located at the Institute of Bio- and Geosciences – Agrosphere (IBG-3), where we conduct research to improve our understanding of biogeochemical and hydrological processes in terrestrial systems. Specific studies focus on environmental controls on biogeochemical cycling of elements, the analysis of exchange processes and nutrient dynamics in the soil-plant-atmosphere continuum. A combination of experiments, modelling and innovative observation technologies is used to bridge the gap between model, process and management scale. Our research contributes to the sustainable and resource-conserving use of soils and water and to the quantification of the effect of climate and land use change on terrestrial ecosystems. We offer a competent and interdisciplinary working environment, as well as an excellent framework in the areas of experiments and modelling.

Your Job:

You will mine and explore big data from Terrestrial Modeling of the coupled water, energy, and nutrient cycle from groundwater to the top of the atmosphere. These type of simulations result in very large data sets (O(1000) TB) with hundreds of output variables that are correlated over short and long distances and timer periods via complex non-linear processes. Identification and characterization of these correlations and previously unidentified interacting mechanism constitutes a grand challenge in the Earth Science; only a fraction of available information from these simulations can be used today to predict, for example, extreme events such as drought and floods. In this project we tackle this challenge by developing and applying state of the art machine and deep learning technologies in massively parallel supercomputer environments leading to novel data mining and exploration capacities and new discoveries of previously unknown information in big simulation data. The project will be conducted in collaboration with the German Aerospace Center (DLR), and the Centre of High-Performance Computing in Terrestrial System, Geoverbund ABC/J.Your tasks in detail:

• Develop and apply machine and deep learning technologies for mining and exploring large geoscientific data sets


• Working with experts at the Jülich Supercomputing Centre (JSC)


• Regularly participate in national and international conferences to present and publish your own work and learn about Terrestrial Modeling

Your Profile:

• A high interest in applying your data science knowledge to Terrestrial Modeling


• University degree (Master) in hydrology, meteorology, computer science, physics, or applied mathematics


• Experience in statistical techniques and programming skills is an advantage


• Programming skills like Python, R, Fortran or C/C++ and experience with HPC-systems are also a clear advantage


• Ability to work independently as well as collaboratively in an international, interdisciplinary team; good communication and organizational skills


• Very good command of the English language: TOEFL or equivalent evidence of English-speaking skills


• A high level of scholarship as indicated, for example, by bachelor and master study transcripts and two reference letters

Our Offer:

We work on the very latest issues that impact our society and are offering you the chance to actively help in shaping the change! We offer ideal conditions for you to complete your doctoral degree:

• Unique HDS-LEE graduate school program with comprehensive training courses, e.g. in parallel computing, machine learning and deep learning, visualization, and scientific computing


• Outstanding scientific and technical infrastructure


• A highly motivated group as well as an international and interdisciplinary working environment at one of Europe’s largest research establishments


• Chance of participating in (international) conferences and project meetings


• Continuous scientific mentoring by your scientific advisor


• Doctoral degree conferred by RWTH Aachen University


• Qualification that is highly welcome in industry



Further development of your personal strengths, e.g., via a comprehensive further training program; a structured program of continuing education and networking opportunities specifically for doctoral researchers via JuDocS, the Jülich Center for Doctoral Researchers and Supervisors: https://www.fz-juelich.de/judocs target="_blank" rel="noreferrer">

">www.fz-juelich.de/judocs

• Targeted services for international employees, e.g. through our International Advisory Service

The position is initially for a fixed term of 3 years. Pay in line with 100% of pay group 13 of the Collective Agreement for the Public Service (TVöD-Bund) and additionally 60 % of a monthly salary as special payment („Christmas bonus“). Further information on doctoral degrees at Forschungszentrum Jülich including our other locations is available at: www.fz-juelich.de/gp/Careers_DocsWith your application please upload:

• Application letter explaining the motivation for the position and research interests


• Curriculum vitae


• Relevant certificates


• Bachelor and master or diploma study transcripts


• English skills: TOEFL score or equivalent evidence of English-speaking skills (high school diploma “Abitur” with English as main school subject)


• Two letters of recommendation/ reference letters

Forschungszentrum Jülich promotes equal opportunities and diversity in its employment relations.We also welcome applications from disabled persons.

This research center is part of the Helmholtz Association of German Research Centers. With more than 42,000 employees and an annual budget of over € 5 billion, the Helmholtz Association is Germany's largest scientific organisation.