ICDP Science Coordinator (f_m_x) Education and Outreach

Deutsches Helmholtz GeoForschungs-Zentrum

The GFZ Helmholtz Centre for Geosciences is one of the world's leading institutions in the field of geosciences. As part of the Helmholtz Association, Germany's largest research organisation, we address global challenges such as natural hazards, climate change and the sustainable use of resources. In doing so, we combine cutting-edge research with social relevance. Our international staff - around 1,200 employees and approx. 500 guests - work in a multidisciplinary way and with a unique infrastructure to research the dynamic processes of the Earth system. Our vision: “Taking the pulse of the Earth to safeguard a habitable planet.”

For section 4.2 Geomechanics and Scientific Drilling (department 'Geosystems '), we are looking for a:

ICDP Science Coordinator (f_m_x) Education and Outreach
Reference Number 11530

The GFZ Section Geomechanics and Scientific Drilling hosts the Program Office of the International Continental Scientific Program (ICDP), including the ICDP Operational Support Group and the ICDP Executive Directorate. ICDP �s mandate is to provide funding and support to multinational teams of scientists for implementing and realising scientific drilling projects on land around the globe. Since its foundation in 1996, more than 60 scientific drilling projects on six continents have been executed and completed with ICDP support and co-funding, and more than 90 ICDP workshops have been held. ICDP members are 22 countries plus UNESCO.

The successful candidate will play a central role in ICDP in developing new and continuing successful education events. They will also advance outreach to the public, media, the scientific community and ICDP stakeholders. This will include a broad target audience, from social media to scientific conferences and individual ICDP-funded projects.

Your responsibilities:

The successful candidate will work in the ICDP Operational Support Group and will be involved in activities in the following areas:

• ICDP outreach to media, public, scientific community, ICDP member and partner organisations (e.g. UNESCO, IODP, PAGES) and other stakeholders
• Planning and execution of international scientific training courses
• Development of online teaching materials
• Involvement of early career researchers in scientific continental drilling
• Advancement of ICDP social media activities
• Preparation and presentation of outcomes in scientific conferences, meetings, and journals
• The position is dynamic and will evolve in line with the requirements of ICDP

Essential Qualifications:

• A Master’s degree or an equivalent degree in Earth or Natural Sciences
• Outstanding communication skills and interest in working with scientific communities
• Work experience in science communication
• Experience in scientific teaching
• Outreach and social media expertise
• Background in Earth sciences
• Knowledge of ICDP or willingness to develop the necessary expertise over time
• Good communication skills in English, ability to speak or willingness to learn German
• Ability and willingness to travel internationally

Desirable Qualifications:

• A PhD is welcome but not a prerequisite
• Driving licence
• Expertise in drilling or borehole investigations
• Experience in developing and conducting scientific training courses
• Knowledge of emerging communication trends and future innovations

What we offer:

• Ambitious and varied tasks in a dynamic and international research environment
• State-of-the-art equipment
• Public service benefits
• Extensive training opportunities
• Professional career advice offered by our in-house Career-Centre
• Flexible working hours and conditions
• Support with finding a good work-life balance offered by benefit@work
• Institute day-care centre on site
• Working at the Albert Einstein Science Park on the Telegrafenberg in Potsdam
• Workplace within walking distance of Potsdam main train station, or just a short ride on the shuttle bus

Start date: 1st January 2027
Fixed-term: 2 years (with possibility of extension)
Salary: The position is classed as salary group 13 according to “TVöD Bund ”. The salary group is determined on the basis of the Collective Wage Agreement and the respective personal qualifications.
Working hours: Full-time (currently 39 h/week); The position is generally suitable for part-time work.
Place of work: Potsdam

Apply

Have we piqued your interest?
If so, we look forward to receiving your application by 14th October 2026. Please use our online application form only.

Required documents: letter of motivation, CV, grades/certificates

The GFZ actively promote diversity and equal opportunities. We explicitly welcome applications from all qualified individuals, regardless of ethnic and social origin, nationality, gender, sexual orientation and identity, religion/belief, age, and physical or neurodiverse abilities.

“Diversity in perspectives” is one of GFZ's core values. As an integral part of supporting diversity at our centre, we actively promote women in science and in leadership positions. To know more about our Diversity policies, contact the diversity team. If you need more information about our gender equality policies, please do not hesitate to contact our Equal Opportunities Officer and check our Equal Opportunities Plan & Cascade Model.

We look forward to applications from people who enjoy working in diverse teams, where everyone feels respected and valued and can fully develop their own talents. Applicants with severe disabilities and equalised persons will receive preferential consideration if equally qualified.

Data protection information for applicants

In case of any further queries regarding the field of activity, please contact Dr. Thomas Wiersberg via email. If you have any general questions about the application process, please contact our recruiting team at our phone number +49 (0) 331-6264-28787.

www.gfz.de