Throughout the history of our planet, geodynamic processes caused atmospheric CO2 variations and exerted major control on climate change. Deformation processes in continental rifts are known to activate deep and large carbon reservoirs. But due to cross-scale interactions, quantitative modelling of CO2 degassing in rift environments remains an unsolved challenge. In the framework of the recently funded ERC Consolidator project EMERGE, we will combine geodynamic models with new multi-scale CO2 flux measurements in Kenya, Ethiopia, Czech Republic and Iceland. In particular, we will employ the geodynamic modelling software ASPECT to account for relevant processes of lithosphere deformation and carbon transport including faulting, ductile deformation, partial melting, melt ascent, and CO2 degassing. By accounting for lithospheric architecture, volcano-tectonic observations and measured CO2 fluxes, we aim to isolate the relative impact of geodynamic processes and lithospheric properties on rift-related CO2 release through space and time.

Your responsibilities:

• Development of numerical models to simulate melting, melt ascent and CO2 degassing in continental rifts
• Conduct generic models to investigate the impact of compositional, thermal, and mechanical lithosphere characteristics on CO2 release
• Conduct specific simulations aimed at reproducing observations and understanding key processes in the project’s target areas in East Africa and Europe
• Collaborating with members of the EMERGE project
• Co-supervision of PhD students and potentially supervision of Master students
• Interact with colleagues in the Geodynamic Modelling Section at group meetings, workshops and in other informal ways
• Presentation of results at scientific meetings and in peer-reviewed publications
• Voluntary participation in the project’s field trips to sites in East Africa and Europe 

Your qualifications:

• Master`s degree (or equivalent) and a PhD in Earth Sciences, Physics, or Engineering
• Extensive experience and knowledge in the development and use of numerical models based on the solution of partial differential equations, preferentially of ASPECT
• Experience in geodynamic modelling, preferentially rift tectonics or two-phase flow
• Experience in HPC computing, data analysis and model visualization
• Proven ability to work in a collaborative and multi-disciplinary environment
• Creativity and critical thinking skills and the ability to publish, as demonstrated by a record of original and innovative publications
• Capacity for international teamwork, and excellent communication skills
• Proficiency in spoken and written English