Chemical Technical Assistance (f_m_x) GFZ Helmholtz Centre for Geosciences

GFZ is Germany's national centre for solid Earth research. We advance the understanding of dynamic processes to address global challenges, from mitigating the impacts of natural hazards and sustaining our habitat amid global change to responsibly managing georesources. We are part of the Helmholtz Association, the largest German scientific organisation. With around 1,200 employees as well as ca. 500 guest researchers, we contribute to the Helmholtz Research Field Earth and Environment, aligning cutting-edge research with societal relevance and international collaboration. Our work integrates multidisciplinary studies across Earth's system components, leveraging advanced technologies and infrastructure to research solutions and to transfer our knowledge to society. We are doing this in line with our vision: “Taking the pulse of our Earth to safeguard a habitable planet”. For section 3.5 "Interface Geochemistry" (department "Geochemistry"), we are looking for a:

Chemical Technical Assistance (f_m_x)

Reference Number 11257

Our section addresses questions related to inorganic and microbial processes at the Earth's surface. We are looking for a junior colleague knowledgeable in basic sample preparation and analytical methods for the characterisation of rocks and minerals (e.g., sequential extractions, diffraction sample preparation and analyses) who is willing to learn and implement several new methods. She:he will join a multidisciplinary, international and diverse team of researchers led by Liane G. Benning, who is very committed to fostering a fully inclusive research environment. Non-discrimination and equal treatment are integral parts of our group policy.

Your responsibilities:

• Preparation of rock and mineral samples with a focus on geochemical sequential extraction of P, Fe from rocks and mineral samples
• Performance of selected mineralogical analyses (e.g. X-ray diffraction, surface area analysis) as needed
• Preparation of standard test series for various mineralogical analyses
• Processing and documentation of the results of all analytical methods used

Your qualifications:

Essential Qualifications:

• Completed vocational training as a chemical laboratory assistant or basic training on specialised geochemical and mineralogical sample preparation and analysis methods
• Structured work while adhering to tight timelines
• Good written and spoken English skills are required
• Familiarity with MS Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint) is a prerequisite

Desirable qualifications:

• High degree of flexibility, independence and analytical quality standards
• Ability to work in a multinational research team

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
• Flexible working hours and conditions
• Support with finding a good work-life balance is offered by benefit@work
• Institute day-care centre on site
• Working at the Albert Einstein Science Park on the Telegrafenberg in Potsdam
• Workplace within walking distance of Potsdam main train station, or just a short ride on the shuttle bus