Reference Number
9687
We are looking to hiring a postdoctoral research scientist to study the geomorphological evolution and erosion of the Comoros archipelago, in order to test hypotheses regarding the chronology of volcanism and the geodynamic evolution of the area (hotspot or plate boundary?). Post-eruption aging of volcanic surfaces affects the morphology of drainage basins and river networks. The successful candidate will use tools of quantitative geomorphology (e.g., topographic analysis, landscape evolution modeling) to constrain the chronology of volcanism [Gourbet et al., 2024, O'Hara et al., 2024]. In addition, they will also take advantage of high-resolution satellite radar (SAR) data. Another potential objective of the project is to characterize lahar hazards and/or the impact of the 2018 seismic crisis on landslides occurrence. The main advisor will by Dr. Loraine Gourbet (GFZ, Earth Surface Process Modelling section), and the successful candidate will also work with Prof. Thomas Walter (GFZ, Physics of Earthquakes and Volcanoes section) and Prof. Nicolas Villeneuve (Réunion Island University).
Researchers in the Earth Surface Process Modelling section work on a broad range of themes and come from widely different backgrounds. We are committed to a collaborative environment to ensure that members can rely on each other’s support. We believe that a diverse team is a stronger team.
Your responsibilities:
1. Investigate the geomorphology and landscape evolution of the Comoros archipelago
2. Quantify erosion rates of the islands of the Comoros archipelago based on paleosurface reconstructions
3. Propose a relative chronology of the formation of the islands and volcano structures
4. Acquire and process satellite data, particularly on the active Karthala volcano
5. Publish in international peer-reviewed journals and present your results at international conferences
6. Contribute to writing proposals for external funding
7. Actively collaborate with members of the section and collaborating sections at GFZ
Your qualifications:
8. PhD in Earth Sciences (by the time of contract start)
9. Demonstrated interest in volcanic geomorphology
10. Proven familiarity with a programming language, ideally Matlab or Python
11. Familiarity with numerical modelling of landscape evolution is desirable
12. Desirable is experience in analysing remote sensing data (satellite SAR, Lidar, or drones)
13. Demonstrated excellence in publication (articles in revision will be taken into account)
14. Documented capacity for international teamwork and excellent communication skills
15. Proficiency in spoken and written English
What we offer:
16. Ambitious and varied tasks in a dynamic and international research environment
17. State-of-the-art equipment
18. Public service benefits
19. Extensive training opportunities
20. Professional career advice offered by our in-house Career-Centre
21. Flexible working hours and conditions
22. Support with finding a good work-life balance offered by benefit@work
23. Institute day-care centre on site
24. Working at the Albert Einstein science park on the Telegrafenberg in Potsdam
25. Work place within walking distance of Potsdam main train station, or just a short ride on the shuttle bus
Start date: January/April 2025
Fixed-term: 24 months
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?
If so, we look forward to receiving your application by 1st October 2024. Please use our online application form only.
The following documents should be submitted:
26. A motivation letter describing how your profile fits the advertised position and how you would approach the project
27. A detailed CV with your full publication list and other achievements, along with the names of two potential referees