postdoctoral – Rock Deformation, GFZ Potsdam

About Position/Job

The GFZ Helmholtz-Zentrum für Geoforschung, Germany’s national centre for solid Earth research, invites applications for a Postdoctoral Researcher in Experimental Rock Deformation. This role is part of the ERC-funded project RockDeath, focusing on the role of fluids in rock deformation and the earthquake cycle. Working within the Geomechanics and Scientific Drilling section, the postholder will conduct high-temperature deformation experiments, micro/nanostructural analyses, and quantitative imaging to advance understanding of the rheology of lower crustal rocks. This two-year, full-time position offers access to state-of-the-art facilities, a collaborative international research environment, and professional development opportunities. The project’s outcomes aim to address fundamental questions about lithospheric processes and seismicity, contributing to the GFZ’s mission of safeguarding a habitable planet.

Position/Job Details

Position: Postdoctoral Researcher – Experimental Rock Deformation
Institution: GFZ Helmholtz-Zentrum für Geoforschung
Department: Geosystems – Geomechanics and Scientific Drilling
Research field: Geosciences, Rock and Mineral Deformation
Location: Potsdam, Germany
Number of posts: 1
Job Type: Full-time, Fixed-term (2 years)
Start Date (Anticipated): As soon as possible
Working Hours: 39 h/week (part-time possible)
Salary Range: TVöD Bund (Tarifgebiet Ost), salary group 13 (based on qualifications)
Required Degree/Diploma: PhD

Research Area

Rock deformation processes
Seismology and earthquake mechanics
Rheology of lower crustal rocks
High-temperature laboratory experiments
Micro/nanostructural analysis (SEM, TEM)

Eligibility & Qualifications

Minimum Requirements:

Master’s degree and PhD (or thesis submitted) in Earth or Materials Sciences
Specialisation in rock and mineral deformation processes
Knowledge of materials physics applied to Earth Sciences (deformation mechanisms, diffusion, defects)
Experience in laboratory mineral analysis/testing and electron microscopy

Preferred Qualifications:

Strong publication record in relevant peer-reviewed journals
Experience with high-temperature deformation apparatus and advanced imaging techniques
Ability to present findings at international conferences