====== PhD Opportunities at HPS ======

We regularly supervise PhD students working at the intersection of **high-performance computing, data analytics, and scientific applications**. Our research is driven by real scientific questions and practical challenges arising from large-scale data processing and complex computational workflows.

This page provides an overview of **what we look for in PhD applicants** and **how to apply**.

Find the list of available PhD topics [[research:open-theses|here]].

===== What We Are Looking For =====

Successful PhD candidates at HPS typically combine **strong scientific thinking** with **solid technical skills**.

===== Essential Qualities =====

==== We value applicants who demonstrate: ====

  * **Critical scientific reasoning**
    * Ability to analyze problems, question assumptions, and work independently on complex research topics.

  * **Strong programming skills**
    * Experience writing non-trivial code for scientific or technical purposes.

  * **Motivation for interdisciplinary research**
    * Interest in working at the boundary between computer science, data analysis, and domain sciences (e.g., climate, weather, engineering, or similar fields).

  * **Good communication skills**
    * Ability to explain ideas clearly, both in writing and in discussions.

===== Technical Background =====

Applicants should have experience in at least some of the following areas:

  *  Programming languages such as Python, C/C++, Java, or similar
  *  Working with Linux-based environments
  *  Version control systems (e.g. Git)
  *  Data analysis, numerical computing, or large-scale data processing
  *  Parallel or distributed computing (helpful, but not strictly required)

===== Proof of Programming Skills (Important) =====

When applying, **please include evidence of your programming experience**.

**We strongly encourage applicants to:**

  *    Provide a link to a GitHub (or similar) repository containing representative code
(This can be a course project, research code, or a personal project.)

This allows us to better understand:

  *    Coding style and structure
  *    Code readability and documentation
  *    Problem-solving approach

Applications **without any code examples** are significantly harder for us to evaluate.

===== Open Topics and Supervision =====

Specific PhD topics may be advertised on the **[[research:open-theses|Open Theses]]** page.
Some topics may remain listed for a longer time if they are part of ongoing research directions.

If you are unsure whether a listed topic is still active, or if you would like to propose your **own research idea**, you are welcome to contact us informally.

===== Funding and Positions =====

PhD positions may be funded through different channels, such as:

  * Project-based funding
  * Institutional programs
  * External programs (e.g. **[[https://www.nhr-verein.de/en/application|NHR]]**, depending on the position)

If you are primarily looking for **funding opportunities**, please consult the relevant funding program pages. Where applicable, links will be provided from the **[[research:open-theses|Open Theses]]** page.

===== How to Apply =====

If you are interested in pursuing a PhD with us, please prepare:

  * **1. Curriculum Vitae (CV)**
  * **2. Short motivation letter** (Why this research area? Why HPS?)
  * **3. Links to code repositories or technical projects**
  * **4. Academic transcripts (if available)**

Please follow the instructions provided on the **[[research:open-theses|Open Theses]]** page or contact the listed supervisor directly

===== Questions? =====

If you have questions about:

  * Research topics
  * Required background
  * The application process

Feel free to reach out to the potential supervisor listed with the thesis topic.