We are looking for a highly motivated individual who wants to earn a PhD in geosciences and is interested in developing an expertise in spectroscopic measurements in a high-pressure device known as the diamond anvil cell. The primary research focus will be on the refractive index and density of carbonate glasses at high pressure with implications to the properties of carbonate melts in the Earth’s mantle. The successful candidate will also take active part in the ongoing research collaboration with the group of Prof. Björn Winkler (Goethe University Frankfurt/Main) to gain insights into the structure-property relation in carbonate glasses/melts at high pressure. 

Your responsibilities:

• Synthesis of carbonate glasses in the K2CO3-MgCO3 system
• All-optical measurements of refractive index and density of carbonate glasses at high-pressure/temperature conditions
• Proactive scientific interaction within the research group and with other groups at the GFZ
• Report progress regularly at group meetings, domestic, and international conferences
• Publication of the results in peer-reviewed journals
• Develop competencies in teaching and supervision (as an assistant) of undergraduate students

Your qualifications:

• Master's degree (or equivalent) in Geosciences, Physics, Chemistry, or a related discipline
• Strong interest in geophysics and challenging experimental work
• Basic knowledge of optical, infrared, and Raman spectroscopies 
• Proficiency in written and spoken English 
• Experience in diamond anvil cell or a related high-pressure technique is desirable 
• Basic programming skills would be beneficial