Doctoral Researcher (f_m_x) – Rock Mechanics and Rock Physics

Job Location: Global

Job Description

GFZ is Germany’s national centre for solid Earth research operating under the Helmholtz Association.

It advances the understanding of dynamic Earth processes to address global challenges such as mitigating natural hazards, sustaining habitats amidst climate change, and responsibly managing georesources.

The project is part of the Marie Skłodowska‑Curie Doctoral Network (MSCA‑DN) Mining Brines, a multidisciplinary programme focused on the sustainable utilisation of geothermal brines for critical raw materials and energy gases.

The role is a three‑year Ph D Fellowship within the Mining Brines network.

The research will investigate how chemical alteration of fractured rock affects its mechanical properties, using laboratory experiments, numerical modelling and field data.

The goal is to improve understanding of fluid‑mediated slip, associated seismicity and reaction‑induced changes to fracture permeability in low‑ to medium‑enthalpy geothermal reservoirs.

Responsibilities

• Select suitable rock samples from outcrops and conduct detailed mineralogical and micro‑structural analyses.
• Perform advanced rock mechanical and rock physical experiments.
• Carry out coupled thermal–hydraulic–mechanical–chemical (THMC) numerical modelling linked to experimental results.
• Validate model outcomes using data from operational geothermal sites.
• Interpret findings and disseminate results through peer‑reviewed publications and presentations at scientific conferences and workshops.

Qualifications

• Master’s degree (or equivalent) in a relevant discipline.
• Strong motivation for interdisciplinary research.
• Excellent command of spoken and written English (mandatory).
• Strong interest and, ideally, experience in experimental rock mechanics and rock physics.
• Experience in mineralogical and micro‑structural rock characterisation (advantageous).
• Interest in coupled THMC modelling (desirable); prior experience is a plus.
• Willingness and ability to work in both laboratory and field environments.
• Eligibility Criteria

Recruitment is limited to Early Stage Researchers (ESRs) within the Doctoral Network who have not yet been awarded a doctoral degree, and who have not performed their main activity for more than 12 months in the 36 months prior to recruitment in the country of the recruiting beneficiary (EU mobility rule).

Benefits

• A dynamic and international research environment with state‑of‑the‑art equipment.
• Public service benefits and extensive training opportunities.
• Professional career advice and support from an in‑house Career Centre.
• Support for work‑life balance, including on‑site day‑care at the Albert Einstein Science Park.
• Fixed‑term fellowship of 3 years, starting as soon as possible.
• Salary example: €4 058/month gross, plus living allowance (€710/month gross) and mobility allowance, with possible family allowance (€660/month gross).
• Full‑time (39 h/week) in Potsdam, within walking distance of the main train station or by shuttle bus.
• Application Requirements
• Cover letter outlining research interests and motivation.
• Curriculum Vitae (CV) with a list of scientific publications, if applicable.
• Contact information for two referees.
• One‑page critical summary of a scientific article (writing sample).
• Mobility declaration with supporting documentation.
• Transcripts and diplomas of the Master’s degree (or confirmation of completion by the application deadline).
• Proof of English proficiency (approved documentation).
• Equal Opportunity and EEO Statement

GFZ actively promotes diversity and welcomes applications from all qualified individuals, regardless of ethnicity, nationality, gender, sexual orientation, religion, age or physical characteristics.

We support women in science and leadership through a gender equality plan and inclusive measures.

Individuals with recognised disabilities receive preferential consideration where qualifications are equal, in accordance with the German Social Code IX.

The GFZ is committed to gender equality in science and strongly encourages women to apply.

Data Privacy Statement

Your personal data will be processed for the purpose of conducting the selection procedure on the basis of Art. 6 para. 1 b, Art. 88 GDPR in conjunction with Art. 26 of the Data Protection Act for the State of Brandenburg.

After the procedure, application documents will be deleted in compliance with data‑protection regulations.

External partners receiving the applications will handle your data solely for evaluating professional suitability.

The Personal Data section of the application will also be deleted upon completion of the procedure in accordance with data‑protection regulations.

Contact Information

Equal Opportunities Officer

EOF@example. com

(phone: +49 0 331‑6264‑28787). General queries regarding the application process can be directed to the recruiting team at the provided phone number or email.

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