The SFB 1759 "Habitability as a fundamental planetary process: Towards a paradigm shift away from our perception of the uniqueness of Earth" is a newly established Collaborative Research Center studying habitability for life as we know it based on fundamental physio-geo-chemical processes set by the planet’s evolution. The study of planetary habitability in this SFB is therefore oriented along the planetary boundary conditions set by astronomy, physics, chemistry and geology, rather than Earth-specific biological evolution. By focusing on the environments in which life may (or may not) evolve, the SFB will be able to define which signatures (such as trace elements in an atmosphere) can be explained by abiotic processes, and which would indeed need some form of extraterrestrial life, leading to a new database of potential biosignatures as well as traces of habitability. As finding potential biosignatures or traces of habitability may also impact society, the SFB takes a holistic approach and investigates also ethical considerations, how scientists communicate scientific results to the public and how these are discussed in social media, as well as the general perception of the public and factors influencing this. In the SFB, different views on one of the most important questions of humanity — are we alone in the universe? — will therefore be examined hand in hand with different perspectives in natural sciences, social sciences, and humanities.
More information: https://www.geo.fu-berlin.de/en/geol/fachrichtungen/planet/projects/SFB1759
The planned position is offered at the Freie Universität Berlin, Institute of Geological Sciences, in Berlin, Germany. Review of applications will start on the day after the application deadline until the position is filled. The earliest starting date of the position is the 1 October 2026. The starting dates are flexible but funding is limited to 30 June 2030.
Applications should be written in English and include a cover letter, the names and email addresses two referees, CV, copies of degree certificates and transcripts, all combined into a single pdf (max. 10 MB). It is possible to apply for multiple positions offered within the SFB at the same time, please indicate the reference code(s) for the position(s) that you are applying for and email your application to [email protected].
Job description:
We are seeking applicants at prae-doc level for a position in the newly established collaborative research center SFB 1759. There is an opportunity to pursue a doctoral degree.
In this project we will acquire key new data to illuminate the volatile cycling between interior, surface, and atmosphere on early Earth. This data will be used to test and tune models for early Earth. We will investigate in key cratons in order to complete a first order Archean-spanning record of sulfur partitioning and V/Sc (a useful redox proxy). These records are critical inputs for geodynamic models of the sulfur cycle and mantle redox conditions over time. Such work will also serve to inform the similar model explorations of Mars and Venus. By combining interior dynamics and atmosphere-surface interactions, our comparative study of volatile cycling on Earth, Mars, and Venus will provide unique insights into their habitability through time. The PhD researcher will perform the sample preparation, sulfide characterization of selected samples, and the chemical extraction of sulfur. The samples will be measured on the NEOMA MC-ICPMS at FUB. The PhD researcher will also conduct sample digestion of samples that have not been previously characterized for trace element abundances, including V/Sc. The PhD researcher will measure these samples on the ElementXR ICP-MS at FUB. The PhD researcher will conduct also models for sulfur budgeting. For more information, please contact Elis Hoffmann ([email protected]) and Alex Webb ([email protected]).
Requirements:
Completed MSc in Planetary Sciences, Geology, Analytical Chemistry or a related field
Desirable:
- Practical skills and hands-on laboratory experience in geochemistry and petrology are desirable
- Good analytical and problem-solving skills, good communication skills, and the ability to work independently and as part of a team
- Very good written and spoken English (B2/C1)
Applications should be sent by e-mail, together with significant documents (complete CV incl. all certificates, letter of motivation, references), indicating the reference code, in PDF format (preferably as one document) to Herrn Dr. Elis Hoffmann: [email protected] or postal to
Freie Universität Berlin
Fachbereich Geowissenschaften
Institut für Geologische Wissenschaften
Geochemistry, SFB 1759
Herrn Dr. Elis Hoffmann
Malteserstr. 74-100
Haus D, 12249 Berlin (Lankwitz)
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