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.
The availability and stability of organic compounds on planetary surfaces constitute a fundamental prerequisite for planetary habitability, the central theme of this consortium. The research aims to elucidate the formation pathways and functionality of organic molecules and their molecular precursors under physicochemical conditions relevant to various solar system environments. To achieve this, we will conduct a systematic series of autoclave experiments employing carbon dioxide and selected rock compositions. The PhD researcher will prepare, plan, conduct, and analyze fluid-solid interaction experiments. This includes sample preparation, chemical separation, analyses using e.g., EPMA, XRD, HPLC-MS, and data interpretation. For more information, please contact Andreas Beinlich ([email protected]).
Requirements:
Completed MSc in Geological Sciences, Chemistry or a related field
Desirable:
- Very good to good first degree
- Documented experience (thesis, publication) with experimental laboratory research in the area of fluid-solid interaction
- Documented experience (thesis, publication) with the analysis of solid matter (SEM, EPMA, Raman, XRD)
- Experience (coursework, thesis) with organic or anorganic chemistry
- Experience (coursework, thesis) with HPLC-MS analysis and data interpretation
- Highly motivated to independent scientific work
- Capability to efficiently self-organize
- Willingness to teamwork within an interdisciplinary environment
- Excellent command of written and spoken English (B2/C1)
Applications should be sent by e-mail, together with significant documents, indicating the reference code, in PDF format (preferably as one document) to Dr. Andreas Beinlich: [email protected] or postal to
Freie Universität Berlin
Fachbereich Geowissenschaften
Institut für Geologische Wissenschaften
Mineralogie, SFB 1759 / Mineralogy, SFB 1759
Dr. Andreas Beinlich
Malteserstr. 74-100
Haus D, 12249 Berlin (Lankwitz)
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