Working Student - Global River Model
The Ocean Cleanup
Rotterdam, Netherlands
Posted on Feb 24, 2026
MISSION TO METRICS
In our mission to rid the world’s oceans of plastic, we rely on a thorough understanding of the ocean plastic pollution problem. The research team aims to refine our understanding of the sources, transport, and fate of ocean plastics with the goal to increase the effectiveness of The Ocean Cleanup’s actions. An important aspect of our research is understanding and mapping the input of plastic into the ocean via rivers in both space and time. For this, we are developing a novel global river model to guide our efforts.
THE ASSIGNMENT
Your project will be focused on several observation rivers which we are using to improve and test the model. By creating an overview based on published studies and available datasets, your work will help us to analyze the model results during model development based on the differences and similarities between the catchments in focus.
The ability to conduct structured literature research and document the findings are thus crucial skills for this project. The project's success relies on the candidate's thorough and consistent work style.
“Our global river model is at the intersection of academic outreach and providing data for internal decision making. By contributing to its quality, you are supporting two important goals for this organization, expanding our knowledge of and reducing the extent of plastic pollution.” Ronja Ebner, River data scientist & modeler.
RESPONSIBILITIES
You will be responsible for creating a thorough overview of several river systems based on available literature and datasets.
This includes:
PROFESSIONAL QUALIFICATIONS
PERSONAL QUALIFICATIONS
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
In our mission to rid the world’s oceans of plastic, we rely on a thorough understanding of the ocean plastic pollution problem. The research team aims to refine our understanding of the sources, transport, and fate of ocean plastics with the goal to increase the effectiveness of The Ocean Cleanup’s actions. An important aspect of our research is understanding and mapping the input of plastic into the ocean via rivers in both space and time. For this, we are developing a novel global river model to guide our efforts.
THE ASSIGNMENT
Your project will be focused on several observation rivers which we are using to improve and test the model. By creating an overview based on published studies and available datasets, your work will help us to analyze the model results during model development based on the differences and similarities between the catchments in focus.
The ability to conduct structured literature research and document the findings are thus crucial skills for this project. The project's success relies on the candidate's thorough and consistent work style.
“Our global river model is at the intersection of academic outreach and providing data for internal decision making. By contributing to its quality, you are supporting two important goals for this organization, expanding our knowledge of and reducing the extent of plastic pollution.” Ronja Ebner, River data scientist & modeler.
RESPONSIBILITIES
You will be responsible for creating a thorough overview of several river systems based on available literature and datasets.
This includes:
- Literature research
- Creating a report
- Presenting the results
- Experience with geospatial data is crucial.
- Experience with Windows and Microsoft Office is desired.
- Familiarity with research on river systems is very beneficial.
- Experience with QGIS is beneficial.
- Fluent in spoken and written English.
PERSONAL QUALIFICATIONS
- Attention for detail.
- Ability to work independently.
- Curious, creative, and determined to deliver.
- Strong written and verbal communication skills.
- Intrinsic motivation to work towards our ambitious and meaningful goal.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
- Start date: ASAP/Preferably March 2026 - Please indicate your possible start date, duration, and hours per week.
- Duration: 2 months.
- Candidates are expected to work from our HQ in Rotterdam at least 3 days a week.
- Candidates are required to be enrolled at a University (Bachelor’s/Master's etc program) throughout the duration of the working student assignment.