Postdoctoral Researcher in Paleomagnetism, GFZ Potsdam

About Position/Job

The GFZ Helmholtz Centre for Georesearch in Potsdam is seeking a Postdoctoral Researcher in Paleomagnetism within the Department of Geophysics, Section 2.3 “Geomagnetism”. Supervised by Dr Sanja Panovska, this two-year funded postdoctoral position (with potential for extension) focuses on exploring the evolution of the geomagnetic field across both stable and extreme time periods. The project combines data-based models, numerical dynamo simulations, and data assimilation frameworks to reconstruct large-scale core dynamics during transitional events. This opportunity allows the successful candidate to contribute to GFZ’s global mission of “Taking the pulse of our Earth to safeguard a habitable planet”, while developing advanced interdisciplinary skills in an international research environment. Based at the Albert Einstein Science Park in Potsdam, the role provides excellent resources, training, and work-life balance support.

Position/Job Details

Position: Postdoctoral Researcher in Paleomagnetism
Institution: GFZ Helmholtz Centre for Georesearch
Department: Geophysics – Section 2.3 Geomagnetism
Research Field: Geosciences, Geophysics, Paleomagnetism
Location: Potsdam, Germany
Number of Posts: 1
Job Type: Full-time, fixed-term postdoc (2 years, with possible extension)
Start Date (Anticipated): November 2025
Working Hours: 39 hours per week
Salary Range: TVöD Bund (salary group 13, Tarifgebiet Ost)
Required Degree/Diploma: PhD

Research Area

Paleomagnetism and geomagnetic field evolution
Numerical dynamo simulations
Data assimilation in geophysics
Core dynamics during geomagnetic reversals and excursions

Eligibility & Qualifications

Minimum Requirements:

PhD in geophysics, physics, geosciences, or related discipline
Experience with data assimilation and numerical simulations
Understanding of geomagnetic field processes including reversals, excursions, and secular variation
Strong programming ability in Fortran, Python, or Matlab
Excellent English communication skills

Preferred Qualifications:

Expertise in global geo- and palaeomagnetic field modelling
Experience with parallel programming
Proven international research collaboration and publications in peer-reviewed journals

Key Responsibilities

Assess data-based models of geomagnetic field evolution over long timescales
Develop and test a data assimilation framework for transitional events
Analyse numerical dynamo simulations for Earth-like behaviour
Reconstruct core dynamics during geomagnetic excursions
Evaluate core flow reconstructions and compare across events
Publish findings in international journals and present at conferences
Collaborate effectively with the project team and international partners

Application Process

How to Apply:

Applications must be submitted via the GFZ online application portal. Interested candidates should provide a CV and cover letter outlining their qualifications and research interests.

Required Documents: