Scientific Project Coordinator (f/m/x) Environmental Data and AI Platform (DataMon)
Helmholtz-Zentrum für Umweltforschung - UFZ
04318 Leipzig
Bewerbungsfrist: 2026-10-26
Your tasks
- The job DataMon is a new strategic UFZ initiative to build an integrated environmental data and AI platform that brings together established monitoring products, scientific data services and cross-domain analytical capabilities.
- Place of work Leipzig, Mobile work is possible for up to 50% of working time in accordance with the applicable UFZ regulations.
- Working time 100% (39h/week).
- The job position is available for full-time or part-time employment.
- Contract limitations limited contract / Initially limited to one year (planned: 1 January 2027 to 31 December 2027).
- An extension until the end of 2031 is envisaged, subject to approval of the DataMon project and availability of funds.
Your responsibilities
- Establish and maintain the integrated DataMon roadmap across the shared platform, monitor and data-product modules, and cross-cutting AI and spatial-compute services.
- Work closely with module leads to clarify requirements, resolve dependencies and conflicts, prepare decisions, agree on priorities and next steps, and ensure consistent follow-up across the DataMon portfolio.
- Coordinate milestones, deliverables, dependencies, resource requirements, risks and decisions across module leads, research data management, IT, knowledge transfer, research infrastructure units, technical working groups and external service providers.
- Translate scientific and user needs into clear technical and organisational requirements, identify reusable solutions and synergies across modules, and align priorities, interfaces and implementation pathways.
- Prepare and facilitate Steering Group meetings, readiness reviews and cross-project workshops; draft decision papers and ensure that agreed actions are followed up and, where necessary, escalated.
- Establish and maintain project controls for schedules, risks, changes, decisions, reporting and documentation, and prepare concise status and management reports.
- Support the procurement and commissioning of external development services, coordinate service providers, and monitor deliverables, acceptance criteria and knowledge transfer in close cooperation with the responsible UFZ units.
- Coordinate the transition from project implementation to sustainable operation, including responsibilities, update cycles, quality assurance, maintenance requirements and user support.
Your profile
- An academic degree at master’s level or equivalent in environmental or natural sciences, computer or data science, geoinformatics, engineering, science and technology management, or a related field.
- Several years of experience managing complex, interdisciplinary digital, research-infrastructure, software or data-platform projects, including multi-team roadmaps, deliverables, dependencies, risks and reporting.
- Proven ability to lead through influence, create commitment across organisational boundaries, address conflicts constructively, prepare and facilitate decisions, and ensure consistent follow-up.
- A strong technical understanding of data platforms and software development, interfaces and APIs, data and metadata workflows, FAIR principles, cloud or compute environments, and AI-enabled services. Hands-on coding experience is welcome but not essential.
- Excellent facilitation, presentation, negotiation and writing skills, with the ability to communicate confidently with researchers, IT specialists, management, stakeholders and external service providers.
- A structured, independent and outcome-oriented working style, sound judgement in evolving and complex project settings, and experience with agile or hybrid project management approaches.
- Very good written and spoken English and German.
- Experience with public procurement, contract deliverables or external service provider management is an advantage
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
- 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
Conditions
- Place of work Leipzig
- Mobile work is possible for up to 50% of working time
- Working time 100% (39h/week)
- Full-time or part-time employment
- Initially limited to one year; extension possible until end of 2031 subject to project approval and funds
- Remuneration according to TVöD public-sector up to pay grade 13
Apply now
- Application deadline: 26.10.2026
- Submit application (cover letter, CV, and relevant supporting documents) via online portal without a photo, age information, or details about marital status
Contact
- Your contact for any questions: Jan Bumberger jan.bumberger@ufz.de
- Thomas Schnicke thomas.schnicke@ufz.de
Diversity and inclusion
- Diversity and Inclusion: The UFZ values diversity and is actively committed to equal opportunities for all employees.
- We particularly encourage people affected by structural discrimination to apply to us.