PhD Candidate (f_m_x) – Geodynamic effects on fault criticality in a geothermally prospective rift system of the Rhine Graben
Reference Number 9051
This doctoral position is part of the MSCA Doctoral Network TALENTS, a European-based research network. More details here.
We are seeking applications for a doctoral project that addresses the question of how large-scale and small-scale tectonics interact to affect the dynamic and largely fault-controlled variations in the geothermal potential across the Rhine Graben rift system. This project aims to quantify past and present stress state and strain (rate) fields of the Rhine Graben rift as a result of the interaction of tectonic forces with the region’s inherited lithological and fault structure. To assess the role that the geodynamic setting plays for the subsurface heat and fluid flow, we will integrate lithospheric-scale, geological, seismic, gravity data constrained 3D structural models and tectonic boundary conditions derived from the kinematic history of the lithospheric plate into coupled 3D thermo-hydraulic-mechanical (THM) process simulations.
Embedded in GFZ’s Section 4.5 “Subsurface Process Modelling”, the doctoral candidate will be jointly supervised by Judith Bott and Sascha Brune.
Your responsibilities:
- Assessing the role of larger-scale geodynamics of the Rhine Graben rift system for the present-day fault criticality and subsurface fluid circulation in its geothermal reservoirs
- Using a cross-scale modelling framework by integrating the stress and strain fields predicted by large-scale geodynamic models into a geothermal system modelling approach involving coupled thermo-hydro-mechanical (THM) process simulations
- Participate and contribute in meetings of the TALENTS network (including workshops and field trips in Greece, Ethiopia, Germany)
Your qualifications:
- Master`s degree (or equivalent) in Earth Sciences or related field
- Knowledge of geophysics, geodynamics, tectonics
- Basic knowledge of programming and model visualization
- Basic knowledge in numerical modelling
- Ability to work in a collaborative and multi-disciplinary environment
- Proficiency in spoken and written English
Eligibility Criteria:
The Marie Curie Eligibility Guidelines need to be fulfilled. In particular:
- Researchers must not have resided or carried out their main activity in Germany for more than 12 months in the 3 years immediately prior to the start date.
- Researchers can be of any nationality.
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-Centre
- Flexible working hours and conditions
- Support with finding a good work-life balance offered by benefit@work
- Institute day-care centre 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: 36 months
Place of work: Potsdam
Salary:Each fellowship includes the following attractive salary (subject to local taxes, social security deductions, etc):
- 3342 €/month gross living allowance
- 600€/month gross mobility allowance
- When applicable, a family allowance may also be provided in the amount of 660€/month
- Other possible allowances include long-term leave and special needs
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.
Your personal data will be processed for the purpose of conducting the selection procedure on the basis of Art. 6 para. 1 b, Art. 88 GDPR in conjunction with Art. 26 of the Data Protection Act for the State of Brandenburg. After completion of the procedure, application documents will be deleted in compliance with data protection regulations.