IDEAS PhD Researcher (f/m/x) Call 2027: 5 Interdisciplinary Projects in Data Science for Environmental & Life Sciences

Helmholtz-Zentrum für Umweltforschung - UFZ

04318 Leipzig

Bewerbungsfrist: 2026-07-26

The job

The Helmholtz School for Integrated Data Science in Environmental and Life Sciences (IDEAS) connects the domain-science expertise of UFZ and HZDR with the data/information science strength of Leipzig University (LU) and TU Dresden (TUD), supported by CASUS as an interdisciplinary bridge.
IDEAS is part of the Helmholtz Information & Data Science Schools under the Helmholtz Data Science Academy (HIDA).
Our research focus IDEAS advances and applies modern data science (e.g., machine learning, explainable AI, uncertainty quantification, and AI-ready FAIR data and research data management) to complex challenges in environmental and life sciences.
PhD topics: five topics, four funded; applicants considered for multiple projects; selection and ranking process.

Your tasks will depend on the project you are matched to.
Across all projects, you will conduct original PhD research at the interface of data science and domain science, contribute to publications and scientific dissemination, and participate in IDEAS training and cohort activities (e.g. seminars, coursework, and community events).

A very good Master’s degree (MSc or equivalent) in a relevant field (e.g., data science, computer science, mathematics/statistics, physics, environmental sciences, life sciences/bioinformatics, computational social science, or related areas), depending on the project.
Strong programming / data analysis skills and motivation to work with large, complex datasets and modern ML/AI methods.
A strong interest in interdisciplinary research bridging data science and application domains, and the ability to collaborate in diverse teams across institutions and locations.
Very good English skills (written and spoken) for work in an international research environment.

Excellent supervision and optimal professional and interdisciplinary qualification through our HIGRADE graduate programme
The freedom to master even the most demanding challenges between basic research and practical application
The opportunity to work in interdisciplinary, international teams and benefit from a wide range 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
A wide range of options for balancing care responsibilities and work 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 Deutschland-Job-Ticket
A workplace in a vibrant region with a high life quality and social and cultural diversity

Place of work Leipzig or Dresden, depending on the project; mobile work possible
Working time 100% (39 h/week)
Contract limitations limited contract / 3 years (extension by a fourth year is possible)
Salary Remuneration according to the TVöD public-sector up to pay grade 13 including attractive public-sector social security benefits.

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.
Application deadline: 26.07.2026
Diversity and Inclusion The UFZ values diversity and is actively committed to ensuring equal opportunities for all employees, regardless of their origin, religion, beliefs, disability, age or sexual identity. We welcome people who represent diverse backgrounds, identities and perspectives. We therefore particularly encourage people who are affected by structural discrimination to apply to us.

Diversity and Inclusion The UFZ values diversity and is actively committed to ensuring equal opportunities for all employees, regardless of their origin, religion, beliefs, disability, age or sexual identity.
We welcome people who represent diverse backgrounds, identities and perspectives. We therefore particularly encourage people who are affected by structural discrimination to apply to us.