About the PhD Position
GFZ Helmholtz-Zentrum für Geoforschung invites applications for a Fully Funded PhD in Rock Mechanics and Rock Physics within the Geoenergy section of the Department Geosystems in Potsdam, Germany. GFZ, Germany’s national centre for solid Earth research, advances understanding of dynamic Earth processes to address global challenges, including natural hazards, sustainable resource management, and climate-resilient habitats. As part of the Helmholtz Association, GFZ integrates multidisciplinary studies, advanced infrastructure, and international collaboration to generate solutions and transfer knowledge to society.
This PhD is part of the Marie Skłodowska-Curie Doctoral Network MiningBrines, providing interdisciplinary training for 19 Doctoral Candidates in geosciences, biogeochemistry, AI, and socio-economic analysis. The project investigates the interplay between chemical alteration of fractured rock and changes in mechanical properties, using laboratory experiments, long-term flow-through tests, and coupled thermal–hydraulic–mechanical–chemical (THMC) numerical modelling. Results will be integrated into reservoir-scale models and validated against operational geothermal site data.
Candidates must hold a Master’s degree in a relevant discipline, demonstrate strong motivation for interdisciplinary research, and be willing to work in both laboratory and field environments. Responsibilities include mineralogical and microstructural analysis, rock mechanical experiments, THMC modelling, and dissemination of findings through publications and conferences.
This fully funded position offers a gross living allowance of €4058 per month, a mobility allowance of €710, optional family support, access to state-of-the-art laboratories, structured doctoral training, and international collaboration. It is ideal for early-career researchers pursuing academic or applied careers in Geosciences, geothermal energy, or Earth System Science.
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Program Overview
- Position: Fully Funded PhD / Doctoral Researcher in Rock Mechanics and Rock Physics
- Position type: Doctoral Researcher (R1 – Early Stage Researcher)
- Institution: GFZ Helmholtz-Zentrum für Geoforschung, Germany
- Department: Department of Geosystems, Section 4.3 Geoenergy
- Research Group: Marie Skłodowska-Curie Doctoral Network MiningBrines
- Supervisor: GFZ Senior Researchers
- Location: Potsdam, Germany
- Duration: 3 years
- Start Date: Flexible / As soon as possible
- Funding: Gross monthly living allowance €4058 + mobility €710 (plus family allowance if applicable)
- Employment Type: Full-time, 39 h/week
- Number of Positions: 1
- Required Degree / Diploma: MSc or equivalent in Geosciences or related field
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Research Focus
- Experimental rock mechanics and rock physics
- Mineralogical and microstructural characterisation of fractured rock
- Coupled THMC numerical modelling at laboratory and reservoir scales
- Geothermal reservoir simulation and fluid-rock interaction analysis
- Application to low- and medium-enthalpy geothermal systems
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Eligibility Criteria
Minimum Requirements:
- MSc in Geosciences, Geophysics, Engineering, or related field
- Strong motivation for interdisciplinary research
- Excellent command of written and spoken English
- Willingness to work in both laboratory and field environments
Preferred Qualifications:
- Experience in rock mechanics or rock physics experiments
- Interest or experience in coupled THMC modelling
- Familiarity with mineralogical and microstructural analyses
- Motivation for sustainable geothermal energy and resource research
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Key Responsibilities
- Select and analyse geothermally relevant rock samples
- Conduct mechanical and physical rock experiments
- Perform coupled THMC numerical modelling
- Validate findings with field data from geothermal sites
- Publish results in peer-reviewed journals and present at conferences
Application Process
Applications must be submitted online.
Required Documents:
- Cover letter outlining research interests and motivation
- Curriculum Vitae (CV) with publications list
- Contact information for two referees
- One-page critical summary of a scientific article
- Mobility declaration and supporting documentation
- Master’s transcripts/diplomas or confirmation of completion
- Proof of English proficiency
Important Dates
- Application Open: Immediately
- Application Deadline: 30 April 2026, 21:59 UTC
- Expected Start Date: As soon as possible
Where to Apply
- University / Institute Website: GFZ Helmholtz-Zentrum für Geoforschung
- Department / Research Group Information: Department Geosystems, GFZ
- Official Job Announcement: Doctoral Researcher – Rock Mechanics and Rock Physics
- Application Portal: Submit Your Application
📧 Contact for Queries:
- E-Mail: bewerbungen@gfz-potsdam.de
- Phone: +49 (0) 331-6264-28787
This Fully Funded PhD offers international scholars advanced research training, interdisciplinary collaboration, and state-of-the-art laboratory and modelling opportunities at GFZ Helmholtz-Zentrum für Geoforschung, Germany.
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