Research Assistant in Geochemistry and Isotope Geology

University of Göttingen

At the University of Göttingen -Public Law Foundation-, Göttinger Zentrum für Geowissenschaften - Abt.4 - Geochemie und Isotopengeologie, there is a position as

Research assistant(all genders welcome)
Besoldungsgruppe A 13 NBesO/100%

to be filled. Starting date is as soon as possible. The position is limited for three years, with the possibility of a further three-year extension (§ 31 NHG/WissZeitVG).

We seek a talented scientist eager to advance frontier research on the solid Earth with a clear focus on radiogenic and/or non-traditional stable isotope geochemistry. Applicants must hold a PhD in Earth Sciences or a related field and bring up to four years of postdoctoral experience. You must demonstrate scientific excellence through high-impact publications and a compelling research strategy with potential to shape key questions in Earth and Planetary Sciences.

Additional requirements include:

• Experience obtaining external funding
• Expertise with MC-ICPMS and/or TIMS
• Hands-on clean-room chemistry skills
• Strong motivation for innovative, curiosity-driven research
• Ability to collaborate effectively and integrate well into an existing, highly cooperative research team
• Excellent English communication.

Teaching and supervision experience is advantageous. International applicants are explicitly encouraged.

You will join a vibrant, international and highly collaborative research group that values open exchange, shared problem-solving, and team-driven progress. Regular scientific discussions, informal lab interactions, and cross-project collaborations create an environment where early-career scientists can thrive. New members benefit from strong knowledge sharing, supportive mentorship, and opportunities to co-develop analytical methods and research directions.

In addition, you will have access to extensive early-career support through the Göttingen Graduate School (GAUSS), including career development programmes, coaching, grant-writing training, and transferable-skills workshops – an excellent framework for building a long-term academic profile.

Our department hosts two international research groups with a broad collaborative network. You will have full access to cutting-edge isotope geochemistry facilities, including:

• MC-ICPMS (Neptune Plus)
• SF-ICPMS (Element2)
• Q-ICPMS (iCAP-Q)
• Laser ablation (Resonetics Resolution M50)
• Two TIMS instruments (Triton)
• XRF, XRD
• A modern clean-room suite (with PrepFast-MC)
• Full rock-preparation labs

Additional analytical facilities – EMPA, Raman spectroscopy, gas-source mass spectrometry, NG mass spectrometry and more – are available through the wider Faculty.

The successful candidate will:

• Conduct an independent, high-profile research programme
• Publish data in high-impact, peer-reviewed journals
• Secure funding for their projects
• Teach in one of our BSc and MSc programmes (4 weekly hours during term times, in German or English)
• Contribute actively to departmental scientific life
• Have the opportunity to work toward a habilitation

The University of Göttingen is known for its vibrant international community. As a family-friendly employer, it supports flexible working arrangements and strongly promotes equal opportunities. Applications from women and from candidates with severe disabilities (with equivalent qualifications) are particularly encouraged.

Please submit your application exclusively via the online application platform (Stellen-ID 76244).

Your single PDF should include:

• A cover letter outlining your suitability (maximum one page)
• A CV (maximum two pages)
• A research strategy statement (maximum two pages)
• Contact information for two referees

Informal enquiries can be addressed to Prof. Dr. Matthias Willbold (matthias.willbold@uni-goettingen.de).