"Doctoral Student (f_m_x) - Geochemical processes in repository-relevant claystones"

Doctoral Student (f_m_x) - Geochemical processes in repository-relevant claystones

Reference Number 10908

We are looking for a talented doctoral student who will contribute to the critical task of characterising suitable host rocks for a potential final repository in Germany. The candidate will focus on a detailed mineralogical, geochemical, and microstructural investigation to assess the diagenetic signatures within different claystone formations. This job opportunity is offered within “TRANSFER – Training and Research Academy for Nuclear Safety and Future Expertise on Geological Repository Systems”, which is coordinated by the GFZ. The program is dedicated to cutting-edge research related to the safe and long-term disposal of high-level radioactive waste and unites leading expertise from five Helmholtz centres and five universities. It features seminars, summer and winter schools, conference presentations, and research stays at partner institutions. The participants will benefit from an excellent scientific environment, state-of-the-art infrastructure, and international networking opportunities.

Your responsibilities:

• Independent planning and conducting of experiments to determine the mineralogy and geochemical composition of clay-rich samples
• Utilising a range of analytical techniques (e.g. XRD, XRF, ICP-MS, microscopy, SEM, TEM, stable isotope analysis and K-Ar dating) to characterise the claystone composition, fabric development, and diagenetic fingerprints in claystones
• Publication of research results in international peer-reviewed journals and at conferences
• Working closely with the PhD candidate at the University of Greifswald and the leading researchers
• Collaboration with the Universities and Helmholtz Centres within TRANSFER

Your qualifications:

• Completed university degree (Master’s degree or equivalent) in geosciences or environmental chemistry
• Knowledge in sedimentology, diagenesis, clay mineralogy, fluid- and rock geochemistry
• Basic knowledge of various analytical methods (e.g. XRD, XRF, SEM), including sample preparation, data processing and data evaluation
• Some experience in the systematic planning and independent execution of experiments in the laboratory
• Willingness to work in interdisciplinary and international teams
• Very good English skills in spoken and written communication, knowledge of some German would be beneficial

What we offer:

• Ambitious and varied tasks in a dynamic and international research environment
• State-of-the-art equipment
• Public service benefits
• Extensive training opportunities
• Professional career advice offered by our in-house Career-Centre
• Flexible working hours and conditions
• Support with finding a good work-life balance offered by benefit@work
• Institute day-care centre on site
• Working at the Albert Einstein Science Park on the Telegrafenberg in Potsdam
• Workplace within walking distance of Potsdam main train station, or just a short ride on the shuttle bus

Start date:

1st March 2026

Fixed term:

3 years

Salary:

The position is classed as salary group 13 according to “TVöD Bund (Tarifgebiet Ost)”. The salary group is determined on the basis of the Collective Wage Agreement and the respective personal qualifications.

Working hours:

Part-time 75% (currently 29.25 h/week)

Place of work:

Potsdam