Reference Number
11300
Digitalisation is transforming the way science is conducted across all disciplines today. The entire scientific knowledge process is mirrored in the virtual world. Academic work is shifting towards digital methods.
Section 5.2 at the Department of Geoinformation of the Helmholtz Centre for Geosciences (GFZ) supports Earth system sciences in this transformation and acts as a driver of digitalisation and innovation. To this end, the section develops digital solutions in collaboration with other research centres within the framework of the Helmholtz AI Basecamp (DataHub) "Earth & Environment" for professional research data management according to FAIR principles, for supporting scientific data acquisition, processing and analysis in virtual research environments, up to tools for visualisation and data science.
The work in Section 5.2 is characterised by agile working methods, co-design approaches together with users from the scientific disciplines, laboratories, and observatories, and a consistent orientation towards DevOps principles.
Your responsibilities:
1. Leadership, personnel responsibility and associated resource management of the section
2. Strategic planning, management and development of digital tools (including AI) for the digital transformation in the sciences
3. Active shaping of the centre's positions on relevant topics, particularly research software engineering, software policies and open science in dialogue with relevant stakeholders in the regional, national and international environment
4. Active development of the section's service portfolio with a view to the outstanding international positioning of the centre in the geosciences
5. Acquisition, coordination and management of third-party funded projects
About You:
Essential Qualifications:
6. Successfully completed a scientific university degree in computer science or a related field
7. Several years of experience and in-depth knowledge in coordinating and managing agile projects, particularly in software development
8. Experience in motivating and leading employees
9. In-depth technical understanding of modern software development methods, the development of digital services and technological trends
10. Communication skills based on respect and a dialogue-oriented leadership style, as well as the ability and willingness to collaborate constructively and solution-oriented with other executives in the department and throughout the GFZ
11. German (Level B2) and fluent English skills
Desirable Qualifications:
12. Experience in acquiring third-party projects (screening of funding programs, proposal writing, project coordination)
13. Relevant doctorate
14. Several years of experience working in an academic environment
15. Experience and networking within the German and international RSE community
16. Familiarity with current developments in the context of Open Science
What we offer:
17. Ambitious and varied tasks in a dynamic and international research environment
18. State-of-the-art equipment
19. Public service benefits
20. Extensive training opportunities
21. Flexible working hours and conditions
22. Support with finding a good work-life balance offered by benefit@work
23. Institute day-care centre on site
24. Working at the Albert Einstein Science Park on the Telegrafenberg in Potsdam
25. Workplace within walking distance of Potsdam main train station, or just a short ride on the shuttle bus
Start date: As soon as possible
Fixed-term: Permanent position
Salary: The position is classified according to TVöD Bund (tariff area East) with salary group 15. The classification is based on the collective agreement provisions and the corresponding personal requirements.
Working hours: Full-time (currently 39 h/week); The position is generally suitable for part-time work.
Place of work: Potsdam
Have we piqued your interest?
If so, we look forward to receiving your application by 2nd July 2026. Please use our online application form only. Required documents: letter of motivation, CV and certificates/grades