The Helmholtz Centre Potsdam - GFZ German Research Centre for Geosciences is the national centre for research into the geosphere. With around 1,500 employees, we develop a sound understanding of systems and processes of the solid Earth as well as strategies and options for action to counter global change, understand natural hazards and sustainably secure energy and raw material requirements.
Postdoc/Scientist (f_m_x) — organic isotope geochemistry
Reference Number 9322
Project: Multi-element stable isotope analysis using Orbitrap mass spectrometry
Section 3.2 at GFZ Potsdam focuses on molecular and isotopic organic geochemistry across the full spectrum of the carbon cycle. One particular focus is currently laid on stable isotope analysis of light elements using Orbitrap mass spectrometry (including site-specific isotope analysis (PSIA) and determination of clumped isotopes amongst others) with the goal of establishing new methodologies and adding further dimensions to existing proxies used in e.g.(paleo)environmental reconstructions.
We are seeking a highly motivated candidate to fill a postdoctoral position to work on the simultaneous determination of multi-element (C, H, O) stable isotope ratios in a variety of analytes, including oxygenated lipids in biological and geological samples, and urea in biological media, with a strong focus on method development. The successful candidate will perform wet chemical preparation of aqueous, environmental and biological samples followed by analysis using LC-Orbitrap (ESI, APCI and/or APPI) and GC-Orbitrap (EI), and statistical evaluation of results. Understanding of isotope (geo)chemistry and prior experience with either PSIA or Orbitrap mass spectrometry will be highly beneficial. Additional PSIA-focused side-projects proposed by the candidate may be feasible. The position can be filled immediately and runs for up to 24 months until the end of May 2026. Inquiries can be sent to Christian Hallmann.
Your responsibilities:
- Actively coordinate the project (sample acquisition e.g. from collaboration partners, analyses, results, communication thereof, meetings and presentations)
- Wet chemical workup of samples
- Molecular isotope analysis using Orbitrap mass spectrometry
- Evaluation of data using R, Python or alternative
- Interpretation of data in coordination with PI
- Publication of results in the international peer-reviewed literature
- Presentation of results at conferences
Your qualifications:
- Master’s degree and PhD in (Bio)(Geo)Chemistry, or related field
- Academic excellence - evidenced by a strong academic record
- Experience with mass spectrometry
- Ideally, experience with Orbitrap mass spectrometry
- Ideally, experience in using R, Python or an equivalent alternative
- Hands-on, can-do attitude with high respect for deadlines
- Team player with excellent interpersonal skills
- Proactive communication of progress and results
- Diligent and well-organized persona with great attention to detail
- Good writing and communication skills in English
What we offer:
- Ambitious and varied tasks in a dynamic and international research environment
- State-of-the-art equipment
- Public service benefits
- Extensive training opportunities
- Professional career advice offered by our in-house Career-Center
- Flexible working hours and conditions
- Support with finding a good work-life balance offered by benefit@work
- Institute day-care center on site
- Working at the Albert Einstein science park on the Telegrafenberg in Potsdam
- Work place within walking distance of Potsdam main train station, or just a short ride on the shuttle bus
Fixed-term: Up to 24 months until the end of May 2026
Salary: The position is classed as salary group 13 according to “TVöD Bund (Tarifgebiet Ost)”. The salary group is determined on the basis of the Collective Wage Agreement and the respective personal qualifications.
Working hours: Full-time (currently 39 h/week); The position is generally suitable for part-time work.
Place of work: Potsdam
Have we piqued your interest?
Diversity and equal opportunities are integral components of our human resources policy. The GFZ actively promotes diversity and explicitly welcomes applications from all qualified individuals, regardless of ethnic and social origin, nationality, gender, sexual orientation and identity, religion/belief, age and physical characteristics. Anyone who has been recognized as severely disabled, will be given preferential consideration in the event of equal suitability and qualification in accordance with the provisions of the German Social Code IX. If you have any questions, please contact our representative for the severely disabled at sbv[at]gfz-potsdam.de, who will be happy to assist you in the further application process. In case of further queries regarding gender equality, please do not hesitate to contact our Equal Opportunities Officer at gba[at]gfz-potsdam.de.
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