PhD candidate (f_m_x) - Development of Next-Generation Radio-Magnetotelluric Instruments, Experiments and Approaches

GFZ Helmholtz-Zentrum für Geoforschung

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 according to our vision: “Taking the pulse of our Earth to safeguard a habitable planet”. For section 2.2 Geophysical Imaging (department “Geophysics”), we are looking for a:

PhD candidate (f_m_x) - Development of Next-Generation Radio-Magnetotelluric Instruments, Experiments and Approaches

Reference Number 11003

In the research group "Magnetotellurics", we have been working for several years on the further development of the high-frequency Radio magnetotelluric method (RMT) to map the electrical conductivity distribution of the upper ten to one hundred metres of the subsurface. Typical areas of application are in the context of investigations of aquifers, the weathering zone or in the accompaniment of drilling projects. Within the framework of this PhD position, innovative and efficient experimental and processing concepts are to be developed for the RMT. The existing processing software, as well as the 2D and 3D inversion strategies, are to be further developed. This requires close cooperation with the technical staff of the section. Further data sets need to be acquired in the context of field experiments in Germany and abroad. Your responsibilities:

• Further development of the RMT devices
• Development of innovative experimental, data handling and processing concepts
• Planning of and participation in (RMT) field experiments in Germany, Europe and worldwide
• Further development of the processing algorithm for RMT data and integration into the analysis software available at GFZ
• Development of innovative and adapted interpretation and modelling methods for RMT data
• Interpretation of the acquired RMT data with regard to the geological subsurface structure
• Publication and presentation of results in scientific journals and at meetings and conferences

Your qualifications:

• A Master's degree (or equivalent) in geophysics (preferred), physics or geology
• Sound knowledge in the application and theory of electromagnetic geophysical methods, especially magnetotellurics
• Sound computer skills in Windows and Linux
• Demonstrable, sound programming knowledge and experience in at least one programming language (Fortran, C, C++, Python, Matlab, ...)
• Very good knowledge of the German and English languages
• Ability to participate in and conduct field experiments
• European Class B driving licence required

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
• Workplace within walking distance of Potsdam main train station, or just a short ride on the shuttle bus