About the Program
GFZ Helmholtz Centre for Georesearch in Potsdam, Germany, offers a fully funded PhD Candidate (f_m_x) position within the RESET project titled Developing Isotope Proxies for Enhanced Weathering. This doctoral research focuses on the geochemical aspects of Enhanced Silicate Weathering (ESW) as a promising carbon dioxide removal (CDR) technique. The candidate will lead investigations into inorganic geochemical proxies, combining clean room sample processing and isotope ratio analysis with fieldwork in Germany. The interdisciplinary project involves collaboration between geochemists, organic geochemists, and social scientists to holistically assess ESW’s environmental and social impacts. This role aligns with GFZ’s mission to advance Earth system science, offering cutting-edge infrastructure and international research exposure. The position starts November 2025 and lasts three years, providing excellent career development opportunities in a dynamic scientific environment.
Program Details
- Position: Fully-funded PhD Position / Doctoral Researcher
- Institution: GFZ Helmholtz-Zentrum für Geoforschung/GFZ Helmholtz Centre for Georesearch
- Department/Faculty: Geochemistry, Section 3.2 Organic and Earth Surface Geochemistry
- Supervisor: Dr. Patrick Frings / Prof. Dirk Sachse
- Location: Potsdam, Germany
- Start Date (Anticipated): November 2025
- Duration: 3 years
- Funding: Full funding under salary group 13 (TVöD Bund Ost), part-time 75% (29.25 hours/week)
- Working Hours: Part-time, 75%
- Required Degree/Diploma: Master’s degree in Geosciences or related field
Research Focus/Area
- Enhanced Silicate Weathering (ESW)
- Inorganic geochemical proxies
- Isotope geochemistry and mass-balance frameworks
- Carbon dioxide removal (CDR) techniques
- Environmental geochemistry and fieldwork
Eligibility & Qualifications
Minimum Requirements:
- MSc or equivalent in Geosciences or relevant discipline
- Strong numerical and data analysis skills
- Fluency in English (written and spoken)
Preferred Qualifications:
- Experience with isotope ratio measurements, clean laboratory techniques
- Familiarity with scientific programming (Python, Matlab, etc.)
- Knowledge of carbon dioxide removal, weathering processes, or isotope geochemistry
- German language skills advantageous but not mandatory
Key Features of the Program
- Access to state-of-the-art clean lab and ICP-MS instruments
- Dynamic international research environment at GFZ
- Interdisciplinary collaboration integrating geochemistry and social sciences
- Support for attending national and international conferences
- Career development and training via in-house Career Centre
- Flexible working hours and supportive work-life balance policies
Application Process
How to Apply:
Submit your application including CV and cover letter through the online application form only. Certificates and references are desirable.
Required Documents:
- Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Cover letter
- Certificates and references (optional but recommended)
Important Dates
- Applications Open: Immediate
- Deadline: 15 September 2025 (21:59 UTC)
- Interviews: To be communicated
Where to Apply
- University Website: GFZ Helmholtz-Zentrum für Geoforschung
- Official Notification: GFZ Online Application Portal
- Application Email: bewerbungen@gfz-potsdam.de
Stay updated on PhD opportunities and academic careers: HigherJobz
