Scientist (f/m/x): Quanten Computing for Catchment Hydrology
Helmholtz-Zentrum für Umweltforschung - UFZ
04318 Leipzig
Bewerbungsfrist: 2026-07-15
The job
- The third-party funded project qFLOW harnesses the transformative potential of quantum computing to tackle urgent challenges in climate resilience and water security by advancing the simulation of complex hydrological systems.
- Place of work Leipzig, Remote working possible. Working time 100%
- The job position is available for full-time or part-time employment.
- Contract limitations limited contract / Limited until 31.12.2028, a further 6-month extension is possible, subject to the availability of funds.
- Salary Remuneration according to the TVöD public-sector up to pay grade 13 including attractive public-sector social security benefits.
Your tasks
- Hamiltonian Reformulation of different catchment hydrological systems ranging from simple synthetic to realistic cases
- Performance tests against classical solvers
- Definition and simulation of selected hydrological extreme cases like droughts
- The freedom to master even the most demanding challenges between basic research and practical application
- The chance to work in interdisciplinary, international teams and benefit from a variety of perspectives
- Firstclass integration into national and international research networks to work together on global challenges
- Excellent research infrastructure and research data management to optimally support your work
- Flexible working hours and a wide range of options for balancing work and care responsibilities through our family office
- Competent support and advice for international colleagues arriving at the UFZ from the 'International Office'
- Special annual payment, capital-forming benefits and subsidised Germany Job Ticket
- A workplace in a vibrant region with a high life quality and social and cultural diversity
Your profile
- University degree or doctorate in theoretical physics or quantum physics, mathematics or informatics
- Advanced programming skills in Python and/or Fortran
- High motivation for cooperation with the interdisciplinary project partners
- High level of personal responsibility in the work
- Teamwork and communication skills (good English skills)
- Curiosity and openness to new computational methods
We offer
- The freedom to master even the most demanding challenges between basic research and practical application
- The chance to work in interdisciplinary, international teams and benefit from a variety of perspectives
- First-class integration into national and international research networks to work together on global challenges
- Excellent research infrastructure and research data management to optimally support your work
- Flexible working hours and a wide range of options for balancing work and care responsibilities through our family office
- Competent support and advice for international colleagues arriving at the UFZ from the 'International Office'
- Special annual payment, capital-forming benefits and subsidised Germany Job Ticket
- A workplace in a vibrant region with a high life quality and social and cultural diversity
Befristung und Arbeitsbedingungen
- Contract limited until 31.12.2028 with possible 6-month extension
- Place of work: Leipzig with remote work possible
- Working time: 100%
Apply now
- Application deadline: 15.07.2026
- To ensure a fair selection process, please submit your application (cover letter, CV, and relevant supporting documents) via our online portal without a photo, age information, or details about your marital status.
Contact
- Prof. Dr. Sabine Attinger
- Dr. Jan Bumberger
- UFZ – Helmholtz Centre for Environmental Research
Additional information
- Diversity and Inclusion: The UFZ values diversity and is actively committed to equal opportunities for all employees.