GFZ Helmholtz Centre for Geosciences

The GFZ is Germany’s national center for research on the solid Earth. We advance the understanding of dynamic processes to address global challenges—ranging from mitigating the impacts of natural hazards and preserving our environment in times of global change to the responsible management of natural resources. We are a member of the Helmholtz Association, Germany’s largest scientific organization. With approximately 1,200 staff and around 500 visiting researchers, we contribute to the Helmholtz research area “Earth and Environment,” combining cutting-edge research with societal relevance and international collaboration.
 
Our work integrates multidisciplinary studies of Earth’s systems and leverages advanced technologies and infrastructures to explore solutions and bring our knowledge into society. We do all this in line with our vision: “In tune with the Earth—to preserve it as a habitable planet.”

As part of the Helmholtz Association, GFZ is Germany’s leading centre for geoscience research, offering cutting-edge infrastructure and strong international networks. We investigate the solid Earth to advance fundamental understanding and develop solutions that support a sustainable future. Our research thrives on interdisciplinary collaboration, combining diverse methods and perspectives to foster scientific innovation.

Guided by our values —curiosity, integrity, relevance, appreciation, and diversity in Perspectives — we foster an open research culture where excellence grows through collaboration and exchange.

Since 1995, the GFZ has been one of meanwhile 18 research centres belonging to the Helmholtz Association, Germany's largest research organisation. It is part of the Helmholtz Research Field ‘Earth and Environment’. The seven centres in this Research Field are working on the joint research programme ‘Changing Earth – Sustaining our Future’ for the period 2021-2028.

As of 1 January 2023, the Research Institute for Sustainability (RIFS, formerly IASS) is embedded into the administrative structures of to the GFZ and now also conducts research under the umbrella of the Helmholtz Association.

As of 31.12.2024, 1,642 individuals work at our centre (incl. RIFS). 37 % of the people collaborating at the GFZ have an international citizenship from 81 countries worldwide. At GFZ, we are proud signatories of the Charta der Vielfalt and committed to equity and inclusion.

The individuals working here operate in different roles and they are in diverse formats connected to our centre:

• 1,193 employees (48 % of these are women) are covering roles as researchers, technical and administrative staff, including 166 trainees, and student assistants
• 449 guest scientists and former employees are utilizing GFZ's infrastructure to work together on scientific projects and related initiatives.

Both groups, permanent employees and visiting scientists, comprise a total of 209 scientists with doctoral projects supervised by the GFZ.

To support its international employees during their stay, the GFZ works closely with the Welcome Center Potsdam. Our goal is to make you feel comfortable and supported when you start at GFZ. Starting a new job, especially in a new country, can be both exciting and challenging. The Welcome Center advises international researchers and employees as well as their families on all aspects of their stay. Even before they arrive, the Welcome Center can support future international employees in many ways. GFZ fosters an inclusive and welcoming environment by offering German language courses to international employees who wish to learn the language.

At the GFZ, we understand that transitioning to a new job or country can be both exciting and challenging. The Welcome Center is here to support international researchers, employees, and their families in settling smoothly into their new environment. Our goal is to ensure that you feel at home and fully supported as you start your new journey at GFZ. Find more information here.

• Administration: Registration at the local citizen’s office, bank account, health insurance
• Visa: Hosting Agreement, arranging appointments with the local immigration offices in Germany
• Housing: Support with finding rooms and apartments
• PhD enrollment: Assistance with admission and enrolment procedures for PhD candidates and PhD exchange students
• Family: Assistance with finding a place in a day care or school, child allowance, parental benefits
• Language course: “German for beginners” organised by the Welcome Center team
• Events: Cultural, sportive and family events, workshops, information events, Intercultural Trainings