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
We are looking for a motivated student assistant, starting on 1st of October 2026, to contribute to cutting-edge hydrologic modelling. Our goal is to develop a holistic hydrologic management system that integrates the mesoscale Hydrologic Model (mhm-ufz.org) with a human water demand model (C-CWATM). To achieve this, we’ve built a Python-based model coupler (finam.org) and are seeking support to further advance this innovative approach.
Your tasks
- Familiarization with the structure, configuration, and execution of CWatM (https://iiasa.ac.at/models-tools-data/cwatm) and mHM (mhm-ufz.org)
- Analysis of the relevant input and output variables of CWatM for coupling with mHM
- Documentation of the technical workflow for installing, configuring, and running CWatM
- Identification of suitable exchange variables between CWatM and mHM, e.g., hydrological fluxes, state variables, or routing-relevant variables
- Support in developing a FINAM wrapper or a FINAM component for CWatM
- Setting up a simple test case to demonstrate the coupling
- Running small test simulations and plausibility checks
- Documentation of work steps, interface assumptions, and open technical questions
- Contributing to Git-based development workflows, e.g., issues, merge requests, and code reviews
We offer
- Excellent supervision that supports your personal and professional development
- Exciting insights into the work of a leading research institute
- The chance to work in interdisciplinary, international teams and benefit from a wide range of perspectives
- The opportunity to contribute and actively shape your own ideas and impulses
right from the start
- Modern technical equipment and IT service to optimally support your work
Your profile
Student in geography, hydrology, environmental science or related with strong affinity for computer science.
Please note that we can only consider applications from individuals who are enrolled as students at an European university during the term of the contract.
The job
We are looking for a motivated student assistant, starting on 1st of October 2026, to contribute to cutting-edge hydrologic modelling. Our goal is to develop a holistic hydrologic management system that integrates the mesoscale Hydrologic Model (mhm-ufz.org) with a human water demand model (C-CWATM). To achieve this, we’ve built a Python-based model coupler (finam.org) and are seeking support to further advance this innovative approach.
Place of work
Leipzig, mobile working partially possible
Working time
Up to 19h/week, but at least 8 h/week
Contract limitations
limited contract / 6 months
Contact
Your contact for any questions you may have about the job:
stephan.thober@ufz.de, sebastian.mueller@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: 15.08.2026
