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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.
Scope: full-time
Duration: fixed-term, 2 years
Start: 01.07.2026
Apply by: 2026-03-31
Your tasks:
- 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.
We offer:
Challenging and varied tasks with a high level of independence, Employment at one of the largest universities in Germany within the University Alliance Ruhr, Options for flexible working (mobile working and teleworking), A qualified on-boarding and induction process, Flexible working hours with consideration for study times
Further information:
The position is salaried and based on the collective agreement of the Länder (TV-L). If the personal and collective agreement requirements are met, the employee will receive pay grade TV-L 13 TV-L.
Further information can be found at (in German).
The place of work is Ruhr University Bochum.
Interested candidates should upload their application documents to the application portal. The application should include: • One-page motivation letter • Full CV • Latest transcript of records • Contact details of at least two referees who can provide a recommendation letter
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. RUB provides corresponding free courses for employees.
German language courses are offered by the University Language Center (ZFA) in the field of German as a Foreign Language (DaF). https://www.daf.ruhr-uni-bochum.de/sbgk/index.html.en
The Staff Council has the right to participate in all selection interviews. At the request of a candidate (m/f/x), it will ensure its participation in the entire procedure. Please contact wpr@rub.de.
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.
The Ruhr-Universität Bochum stands for diversity and equal opportunities. For this reason, we favour a working environment composed of heterogeneous teams, and seek to promote the careers of individuals who are underrepresented in our respective professional areas. The Ruhr-Universität Bochum expressly requests job applications from women. In areas in which they are underrepresented they will be given preference in the case of equivalent qualifications with male candidates. Applications from individuals with disabilities are most welcome.
Contact persons for further information:
Thilo Bissbort +49 234 32-18231
Prof. Dr. Raúl Fonseca +49 234 32 23299
Travel costs, accommodation costs and loss of earnings or other application costs for job interviews can unfortunately not be reimbursed.
We look forward to receiving your application via our online application portal by 2026-03-31. Please make sure to mention the reference number ANR 5477.
RUHR-UNIVERSITÄT BOCHUM
44801 Bochum
Universitätsstraße 150
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