Matthias Lankhorst obtained an academic degree (equivalent to an MSc) in physical oceanography from the University of Kiel, Germany, in 2003. This early educational foundation laid the groundwork for his future contributions to the field.
He pursued his doctoral degree in the same discipline at the University of Kiel, completing his research in 2007. His commitment to the study of physical oceanography led him to the renowned Scripps Institution of Oceanography at the University of California, San Diego, where he has served as an Associate Project Scientist since 2007.
Within this role, Matthias Lankhorst has focused his expertise on observational physical oceanography, regularly participating in sea-going activities, ocean observing systems and instrumentation, particularly subsurface floats and moorings, and ocean data processing and quality control.