The Leibniz Institute of Atmospheric Physics (IAP) is offering a part-time (75%) PhD student position in the Department of Modelling of Atmospheric Processes, focusing on generative diffusion models for atmospheric data assimilation. This three-year position, starting as soon as possible, is designed for candidates interested in advancing scientific knowledge of the mesosphere and lower thermosphere through innovative modelling and machine learning techniques.

The research will center on generative diffusion models, which are powerful tools for solving inverse problems in atmospheric science. The successful candidate will train diffusion models on circulation fields from numerical models, aiming to generate atmospheric fields that closely match pointwise observations while preserving the dynamical and statistical characteristics of the model data. The project will explore whether data assimilation can be performed in one step for full 3D fields or if generating individual 2D horizontal layers separately is more efficient for GPU memory usage.

Applicants should hold a completed MSc degree in mathematics, informatics, physics, or a related field. Essential qualifications include strong expertise in machine learning, high performance computing on CPUs and GPUs, proficiency in Fortran, Python, shell scripting, and experience with Linux command-line environments (including remote systems via SSH) and Windows. Interest in modern software engineering practices such as testing, code review, and modular design, as well as fluency in English, are required.

The IAP offers an attractive workplace near the Baltic Sea, modern equipment, engagement in an international work environment, participation in the company pension scheme (VBL), flexible working hours, and mobile working options. The employment relationship follows the Collective Agreement for the Public Service of the Federal States (TV-L), with salary according to class EG 13 TV-L. The institute is committed to family friendliness, equality of opportunity, and flexibility, and encourages applications from qualified women and people with disabilities.

Applications should include a motivational letter, CV, diploma with final grade, certificates, testimonies, and references, and be sent to [email protected] with the keyword 2026-03. Applications received before April 14, 2026, will be given full consideration. For further information, contact Prof. Dr. Claudia Stephan ([email protected]) or visit the institute website at www.iap-kborn.de.

This position provides an excellent opportunity to contribute to cutting-edge research in atmospheric physics, data-driven modelling, and climate change, within a collaborative and supportive environment.