Postdoctoral researcher (m/f/x)

Faculty of Geography and Geosciences :
Experimental Petrology and Geochemistry
In order to fill a fixed-term position in full-time (The position is 100% TV-L 13 for 2 years.) 01.07.2026, we are looking for 1

Postdoctoral researcher (m/f/x)

The Experimental Petrology and Geochemistry workgroup at the Ruhr-University of Bochum is inviting applications (m/f/x) for a full-time, 2-year, DFG-funded Postdoctoral research position. This position is part of the project “Formation of submarine basalts”, which is led by Thilo Bissbort and funded as part of the SPP 1006 ICDP program.

The project aims to improve our understanding of how submarine basalts form by studying samples from the HSDP2 drilling project in Hawaii. Employing state-of-the-art analytical methods that include techniques like fast differential scanning calorimetry and TEM, we will specifically shed light on two main aspects:(1) Thermal history of submarine basalts from small to large scale. (2) Crystallization dynamics in submarine basalts.

The Ruhr-Universität Bochum is one of Germany’s leading research universities, addressing the whole range of academic disciplines. A highly dynamic setting enables researchers and students to work across the traditional boundaries of academic subjects and faculties. To create knowledge networks within and beyond the university is Ruhr-Universität Bochum’s declared aim.

• Detailed characterization of pristine HSDP2 samples, as well as samples that have undergone thermal analysis, using a variety of techniques.
• Glass transition temperatures will be measured by differential scanning calorimetry and used to reconstruct cooling rate gradients on small and large scales based on enthalpy-relaxation-geospeedometry results.
• Comparison to commonly applied heat conduction models.
• Systematic, controlled cooling experiments, combined with detailed chemical and spectroscopic analysis, will be employed to investigate the impact of cooling rates on phenomena like nanoscale phase separation and the formation of nanolites.
• The results of this study will be interpreted in terms of the dynamics of submarine basalt formation including thermal history, the formation of phases linked to this process, and the resulting rheology.

• Your profile:
• Qualifications:
• Doctoral degree in Earth sciences, physics, chemistry, or material sciences
• Experience in working with silicate glasses and melts
• Required skills:
• Ability to perform SEM, EPMA, and Raman measurements
• Ability to process, evaluate, interpret, and present data
• Proficiency in programming/scripting languages such as Python and/or Matlab.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills
• Ability to work independently and willingness to work in a collaborative environment
• Preference will be given to those who have experience in TEM, FIB-SEM, and/or Raman analysis. Experience with numerical modeling and thermal analysis techniques is beneficial.
• RUB sees itself as a university with an international presence. The campus languages are German and English. Competence in at least one of the two languages and the willingness to learn the other are a prerequisite.