PhD Fellowship in Environmental (Bio)Geochemistry at Helmholtz Centre Potsdam

Are you a highly motivated scientist with a passion for environmental mineralogy and biogeochemistry? Join the Helmholtz Centre Potsdam – GFZ German Research Centre for Geosciences, the national hub for geosphere research, as a PhD Fellow in the Interface-Geochemistry team. This is a unique opportunity to work on cutting-edge research in a dynamic, interdisciplinary, and inclusive environment.

About Us:
GFZ German Research Centre for Geosciences is a part of the Helmholtz Association of German Research Centres and plays a key role in advancing the understanding of Earth’s systems and processes. With approximately 1,500 employees, our mission is to address global change, natural hazards, sustainable energy, and more.

Position Details:

• Position: PhD Fellow in Environmental (Bio)Geochemistry
• Reference Number: 8243
• Start Date: As soon as possible
• Contract Duration: 3 years
• Working Hours: Part-time (75% – currently 29.25 hours/week)
• Location: Potsdam

Responsibilities:

• Conduct laboratory experiments to understand the formation and transformation of iron-phosphate and iron-carbonate phases, particularly their interactions with organic matter.
• Utilize in situ and time-resolved methods for solution and solid-phase synthesis/characterization.
• Analyze and interpret changes in structure, composition, and size of species and phases during reactions.
• Evaluate the influence of organic compounds on phase stability within the Fe-C / Fe-P systems.
• Contribute to scientific publications and presentations.
• Collaborate within a dynamic, international research group.

Qualifications:

• MSc degree (or equivalent) in mineralogy, environmental sciences, materials, or inorganic chemistry.
• Strong foundation in mineralogy/crystal chemistry or interface biogeochemistry.
• Experience with characterization techniques like XRD, SEM/TEM, FTIR, UV-Vis, ICP-OES, and IC.
• Proficiency in spoken and written English.
• Motivation, creativity, and ability to work independently and collaboratively.
• Interdisciplinary and international team-work capabilities.

Benefits:

• Ambitious and varied tasks in a dynamic research environment.
• State-of-the-art equipment.
• Professional career advice and extensive training opportunities.
• Flexible working hours and conditions.
• Support for work-life balance.
• Institute day-care centre on site.
• Work at the Albert Einstein science park in Potsdam.

Application Process:
Please submit your application by September 21, 2023, through the online application form. Applications should include:

1. Cover letter detailing your fit to the qualifications and responsibilities.
2. Detailed CV with contact details of 2 scientific referees.

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Diversity and Equal Opportunities:
GFZ actively promotes diversity and welcomes applications from all qualified individuals. If you have been recognized as severely disabled, you’ll receive preferential consideration. For further queries on gender equality or disability support, contact sbv[at]gfz-potsdam.de or gba[at]gfz-potsdam.de.

Contact:
For queries about the field of activity, contact Liane G. Benning at benning[at]gfz-potsdam.de. For general application questions, contact our recruiting team at +49 331 6264-28787.

Join us to contribute to impactful research in the field of environmental (bio)geochemistry and be a part of a vibrant research community! Visit our website for more information: www.gfz-potsdam.de/en.