Institute for Circular Remuneration according to guidelines of ID: 8026WV11 Start of employment: 01.09.2026 Application deadline 13.04.2026 Scope full time and fixed term until 31.08.2029

This PhD project aims to develop dynamic and multi-criteria impact assessment models for geothermal multi-resource extraction within the framework of the EU-funded MiningBrines Programme. The central objective is to evaluate the environmental, economic, and societal implications of simultaneously extracting geothermal energy, dissolved gases, and critical minerals from deep brine systems. A key goal is to move beyond conventional static life cycle assessment approaches by establishing dynamic modelling frameworks that account for evolving boundary conditions. These include climate change trajectories, energy system transitions, groundwater responses, biodiversity impacts, and regulatory developments. The project seeks to provide forward-looking, scenario-based tools that enable stakeholders to assess long-term system performance, trade-offs, and uncertainties over the lifetime of geothermal investments.

The project is expected to deliver a dynamic, scenario-based multi-criteria impact assessment framework tailored to geothermal multi-resource extraction systems. It will provide quantitative insights into long-term environmental, economic, and societal trade-offs under evolving external conditions.

By integrating machine learning, optimisation, and sustainability assessment into a decision support platform, the research will produce robust tools for responsible investment and policy-making.

The successful candidate will be part of the MiningBrines Marie Skłodowska-Curie Doctoral Network,
a European training program bringing together universities, research institutes, and industry partners.

YOUR TASKS

To deliver a dynamic, scenario-based multi-criteria impact assessment framework tailored to geothermal multi-resource extraction systems
To provide quantitative insights into long-term environmental, economic, and societal trade-offs under evolving external conditions
To evaluate system performance under alternative future developments and policy contexts
To produce robust tools for responsible investment and policy-making

YOUR PROFILE

Requirements

Completed scientific university studies, in particular in the subject Environmental Engineering, Process Engineering or Chemical sciences
Early Stage Researcher (m/f/d) - must not obtain a doctoral degree

Desired knowledge and personal skills

Strong background in Life Cycle Assessment (LCA), environmental systems analysis, or sustainability assessment
Experience with dynamic modelling approaches (e.g. time-dependent systems, scenario modelling, optimisation models)
Knowledge of energy systems, resource recovery, carbon capture/storage or industrial process assessment
Programming skills (e.g. Python, MATLAB, R) for modelling, data processing and tool integration
Capacity to work in interdisciplinary and international research environments

OUR OFFER

A job in an interesting, friendly and appreciative working environment
Joining network-wide training schools and workshops

ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA

Researchers recruited within the Doctoral Network must be Early Stage Researchers (ESRs) and must not have a doctoral degree. Additionaly, they must not have resided or carried out their main activity (work, studies, etc.) in the country of the recruiting organization (here: Germany) for more than 12 months in the 36 months immediately before recruitment date. Doctoral candidates funded by the Doctoral Networks can be of any nationality and should be enrolled in a doctoral programme leading to the award of a doctoral degree.

At the heart of TU Hamburg’s research, teaching and transfer of technology is the guiding principle of developing technology for people. The TU Hamburg sees itself in this context as a family-friendly and sustainable university with high performance and quality standards that strives for excellence in all its research fields. Interdisciplinarity, innovation, regionality and internationality are binding principles in our actions. With currently around 8.000 students, 110 professors and 1.650 employees, the TU Hamburg is characterised by short decision-making processes and close cooperation between the board, the institutes, the deans of studies, the research areas and the administration. We identify ourselves with a modern leadership culture and cultivate appreciative interaction.

For further information please contact Frau Dr. Ayah Alassali, Tel.-No. +49 40 30601 2438, Email: .

We value diversity, therefore all applications are welcome, regardless of gender, gender identity, ethnic origin, nationality, age, religion and belief, disability, sexual orientation and identity or social background.

The TU Hamburg stands for as well as

Please send your complete application documents (cover letter, curriculum vitae in table form, proof of completed training and/or university degree, job references or certificates of employment) via the online application system.

Notice for graduates of foreign educational qualifications:
Please submit proof of all obtained university degrees and, if available, the recognition of your educational qualifications in Germany (e.g. anabin excerpts and/or acknowledgement of previous employers).