Doctoral researcher (f_m_x) – Investigating hillslope-stream connectivity with fiber-optic sens[...]

The GFZ Helmholtz Centre for Geosciences is one of the world's leading institutions in the field of geosciences. As part of the Helmholtz Association, Germany's largest research organisation, we address global challenges such as natural hazards, climate change and the sustainable use of resources. In doing so, we combine cutting‑edge research with social relevance. Our international staff - around 1,200 employees and approx. 500 guests - work in a multidisciplinary way and with a unique infrastructure to research the dynamic processes of the Earth system. Our vision: “Taking the pulse of the Earth to safeguard a habitable planet.”

For section 4.4 "Hydrology" (department “Geosystems”), we are looking for a:

Doctoral researcher (f_m_x) – Investigating hillslope-stream connectivity with fiber‑optic sensing and tracer techniques

Reference Number 11436

The Section Hydrology at the GFZ Helmholtz Centre for Geosciences, in collaboration with the University of Zürich and the University of Freiburg, is offering a doctoral position within the DFG‑funded Research Unit “Fast and invisible: Conquering Subsurface Stormflow (SSF) through an Interdisciplinary Multi‑Site Approach”.

Research will focus specifically on investigating hillslope‑riparian zone‑stream connectivity at the reach‑to‑catchment scale. A novel experimental design is used to identify hillslope subsurface stormflow and to track its physical and chemical signatures during passage through the riparian zone and along the stream channel network based on hydrometric and tracer‑hydrological measurements. Research will benefit from the previously installed extensive monitoring infrastructure, which includes nine large trench systems for the collection of subsurface flows. This unique replicated design across different landscapes and land uses now allows for a systematic study of SSF. This will be complemented by the use of fiber‑optic temperature sensing in both the soil and the stream. Experimental work will be conducted in three catchments in Germany. Being part of the research unit provides a unique chance of being embedded in an interdisciplinary and enthusiastic research network and to gain insights into a diverse range of methodological approaches.

This position is part of a cluster hire with a total of six positions in Potsdam, Bayreuth and Zürich. The PhD candidate will be co‑advised by the project leaders, and a very close collaboration between the PhD students and project staff at all involved institutes is expected.

Your responsibilities:

• Assessment of groundwater inflows through distributed temperature sensing (fibre‑optic cables, DTS, thermal infrared imagery)
• Installation and maintenance of DTS systems for continuous monitoring in soil and stream
• Methodological developments for the use of heat as a tracer for preferential flow
• Development of signal processing routines for high‑frequency measurements
• Installation, optimisation and maintenance of monitoring equipment (this will include optimising logger programs, power management and developing calibration routines; use of microcontrollers possible)
• Tracer experiments in the stream
• In‑depth data analysis using R, Python or Matlab
• Presentation and publication of scientific results

About You:

Essential Qualifications:

• An MSc degree in hydrology, geosciences, environmental sciences, engineering or a closely related field with experience in environmental sensing
• You are enthusiastic, curious, self‑driven and committed, willing to handle responsibility, and you enjoy working in the field as part of a larger team (regular field campaigns of 5-10 days are to be expected)
• Some experience in environmental fieldwork, awareness of the challenges involved, ability to work in the field, including extended walking and carrying of heavy loads
• Process‑oriented thinking and hydrological process understanding
• Interest in sensor development
• Excellent quantitative skills (programming and data analysis, data management, experience with the analysis of large datasets)
• Very good English writing and communication skills
• A valid driver’s license (European Cat. B) is required

Desirable Qualifications:

• Experience with distributed temperature sensing (DTS)
• Experience with the use of heat as a hydrological tracer
• Experience with interacting with sensor hardware and sensor development
• German is an asset but not essential

Start date: 1st October 2026
Fixed‑term: 3,5 years
Salary: The position is classed as salary group 13 according to “TVöD Bund ”. The salary group is determined on the basis of the Collective Wage Agreement and the respective personal qualifications.
Working hours: Part‑time 75% (currently 29.25 h/week)
Place of work: Potsdam

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
• 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

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“Diversity in perspectives” is one of GFZ's core values. As an integral part of supporting diversity at our centre, we actively promote women in science and in leadership positions. To know more about our Diversity policies, contact the diversity team. If you need more information about our gender equality policies, please do not hesitate to contact our Equal Opportunities Officer and check our Equal Opportunities Plan & Cascade Model.

We look forward to applications from people who enjoy working in diverse teams, where everyone feels respected and valued and can fully develop their own talents. Applicants with severe disabilities and equalised persons will receive preferential consideration if equally qualified.