Doctoral ; gn; WG Systems Ecology

The Leibniz Centre for Tropical Marine Research (ZMT) GmbH () is an independent research and teaching institute that provides scientific knowledge for the protection and sustainable use of tropical coastal ecosystems. To this end, we work in an inter- and transdisciplinary manner with our partners in the tropics. The ZMT is a member of the Leibniz Association.

(Reference: 27-SE-PhD)

• Investigate how cognitive biases influence opinion dynamics
• Investigate how information and media influence opinion dynamics
• Develop computational models of opinion dynamics
• Apply network theory to models of opinion dynamics
• Produce results publishable in peer-reviewed journals
• Produce and defend a PhD thesis

• Applicants must hold a Master degree in one of the following disciplines: mathematics, physics, computational sciences, social modelling, or in similar quantitative or numerical disciplines.
• Knowledge or a keen interest in behavioral economics, psychology, sociology, and data science will represent an advantage.
• Candidates should possess very good programming skills, possibly in python, and should have a keen interest in developing a research career focused on the mathematical modelling of social problems.
• We are looking for highly motivated students with an interest in interdisciplinary studies and good communication and scientific writing competences.
• The working language is English.
• This study is undertaken in close cooperation with Prof. Paul
  
  E. Smaldino (from University of California Merced and Santa Fe Institute) and, pending funding availability, short visits to the University of California Merced may be required.

For questions, please contact Prof. Dr. Agostino Merico, email: ag

Remuneration is based on Pay Group 13 of the Collective Agreement for the Public Service of the Federal States (TV-L). The gross monthly salary is determined in accordance with the provisions of the TV-L and currently ranges from 4759.37 EUR to 6764.69 EUR employees gross salary per month, depending on the candidate’s recognized relevant professional experience. The gross salary listed here applies to a full-time position.

For part-time employment, this amount should be adjusted proportionally. Further details regarding remuneration are governed by the TV-L and the TV-L Pay Scale Regulations (Entgeltordnung zum TV-L).

The position is available for part-time (2/3 of a full-time position) employment starting December 1st, 2026 for 36 months. The fixed term is for academic qualification according to

• 2 (1) WissZeitVG (Wissenschaftszeitvertragsgesetz). Accordingly, only applicants who still have the relevant qualification periods according to
• 2 (1) WissZeitVG can be considered. The position is intended to provide further academic qualification with the aim of obtaining a doctorate.

ZMT is an equal opportunity employer. Applicants with a migration background are welcome. Persons with severe disabilities are given special consideration if they have the same professional and personal qualifications. The ZMT values its diverse workforce and pursues the goal of providing equal opportunity, which incorporates gender neutrality (gn). We will be happy to accept your documents without a photo.

• A challenging and varied job in an international, dynamic and interdisciplinary research environment
• A motivated and committed team from different countries and cultures
• An open and cooperative working atmosphere
• Opportunities for personal and professional development
• Interesting, varied and challenging tasks and family-friendly working conditions
• Company pension plan (VBL)
• Company health promotion and the opportunity to participate in company fitness with EGYM Wellpass

Leibniz Centre for Tropical Marine Research, Fahrenheitstraße 6, D-28359 Bremen.