The UFZ
The Helmholtz Centre for Environmental Research (UFZ) is a world-leading institution in environmental research and a member of the Helmholtz Association, Germany’s largest scientific organisation. With approximately 1,200 employees across Leipzig, Halle, and Magdeburg, we have been conducting research since 1991 using a transdisciplinary approach to address the most pressing challenges of our time: biodiversity loss, climate change, and environmental pollution. Our goal is to translate excellent research into practical solutions for policymakers, business, and society, and to serve as a reliable partner in supporting transformation processes toward a sustainable and just future for current and future generations. We foster a culture of collaboration, openness, and diversity within a work environment that actively promotes creativity and personal development.
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.
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
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
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 openess to new computional methods
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.
Contact
Your contact for any questions you may have about the job:
Prof. Dr. Sabine Attinger
sabine.attinger@ufz.de
Dr. Jan Bumberger
jan.bumberger@ufz.de
Your application
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.
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.
Application deadline: 12.07.2026
