We seek a highly motivated PhD candidate to examine the impact of organic matter (OM) on ore forming processes of Cu, Zn and Pb sulphides in the Permian “Kupferschiefer system”. Having largely not been overprinted by elevated thermal stress, the Kupferschiefer in Germany and Poland represents an ideal natural laboratory for geochemical investigations of organic-inorganic interactions.

This project will aim at characterizing and quantifying the effect of OM on mineralization processes, with a focus on polar organic compounds. The candidate will combine standardized organic geochemical techniques (e.g., GC, GC-MS) with up-to date advanced analytical methods like Fourier-transform ion cyclotron resonance mass spectrometry (FT-ICR-MS). The data of the proposed multi-proxy approach will fill a fundamental gap in studies that largely lack microscale-resolved analyses of organic-inorganic interactions. 

As a doctoral researcher (f_m_x), your challenges will be to conduct a broad spectrum of different organic geochemical analyses. In particular, you will exploit the composition and the stable carbon and hydrogen isotope signatures of a variety of compounds (e.g., biomarkers, n-alkanes, polar compounds) to detect changes in OM alteration in dependence on ore mineralization. In addition, microscopic analyses will be used to characterize the rock matrix. 

Your responsibilities:

• Prepare Kupferschiefer sediments for organo-chemical analyses
• Determine composition and stable isotopic signature of hydrocarbons (e.g., biomarkers) and polar compounds to trace changes by Cu, Pb and Zn mineralization
• Carry out microscopic analyses
• Integrate all results to obtain a detailed understanding of the mineralizing processes that alter the organic carbon quantity and composition
• Publish key results in international journals and present them at scientific meetings

Your qualifications:

• MSc degree (or equivalent) in geosciences (geology, geochemistry, or related fields) or chemistry
• An ability to quickly grasp scientific concepts and place detailed information and observations in a wider context
• A talent for combining techniques and insights from different disciplines, and a keen interest in organic geochemistry and ore geology
• Experience in organic geochemical analysis is an advantage
• Very good English skills, both written and spoken
• High motivation and creativity geared towards result-oriented, structured and independent results
• Capacity for interdisciplinary and international team-work and excellent communication skill