Fixed-term research associate (m/f/x) in stable isotope geochemistry

Fixed-term research associate (m/f/x) in stable isotope geochemistry

We are a team of stable isotope geochemists and sedimentologists aiming to reconstruct the paleo‑hydrosphere, paleo‑atmospheres and paleo‑biosphere throughout Earth’s history. Respective archives include (bio)chemical sediments (e.g., carbonates, silicates, sulfates, phosphates). We study the geological record, modern analogues and experimental samples using state‑of‑the‑art analytical tools with a focus on triple oxygen isotope systematics.

• Scope: full‑time (39.83 hours/week = 100%)
• Duration: fixed‑term, 6 years
• Start: at the earliest possible date
• Apply by:

Your tasks

• As a research assistant (m/f/x), you will actively initiate and lead research projects within the above‑mentioned broad spectrum and build an internationally renowned profile.
• Teaching duties (according to § 3 of Lehrverpflichtungsverordnung – State of North Rhine‑Westphalia) during the semester which can include supervision of students and/or excursions.
• The successful candidate (m/f/x) will be responsible for managing part of the lab infrastructure.

Your profile

• PhD in Earth sciences or a related field.
• Research focus on stable isotope geochemistry.
• Hands‑on experience with mass spectrometers and data reduction.
• Demonstrated experience in scientific writing and communication in English.
• You wish to pursue a career in academia.

We offer

• A vibrant working environment.
• Exceptional scientific infrastructure.
• The successful candidate will have full access to the state‑of‑the‑art analytical infrastructure. The laboratory of the working group includes:
  • An ICP‑OES for trace element analyses.
  • Three IRMS for conventional C, O and H isotopes on water, carbonates and methane as well as clumped isotopes.
  • A TIMS for 87Sr/86Sr, plus respective clean‑lab facilities.
  • A Neptune MC‑IPMS, mainly used for Ca and Mg isotopes, plus clean‑lab facilities.
  • An L2140‑i Isotopic Water Analyzer (Picarro) for triple oxygen and hydrogen isotopes.
  • A TILDAS CO₂ spectrometer (Aerodyne Research) for triple oxygen isotope analyses.
  • An IBEX carbonate sample preparation system used to generate CO₂ both for clumped isotope analyses (using a MAT352plus) and triple oxygen isotopes (using the TILDAS). The unique setup in Bochum enables simultaneous analyses on the same CO₂ gas from the same sample.
• Furthermore, the institute comprises a central microanalytical laboratory which includes a microprobe, an SEM, a FIB‑SEM and an optical KL microscope. A range of other instruments including XRF, XRD, NMR and a new LA‑ICP‑MS facility for in‑situ trace element and isotope analyses are distributed in laboratories of other working groups. The Institute of Geosciences has moved to a new building several years ago, thus all laboratories and office facilities adhere to modern standards.
• Financial resources to perform research, attend conferences and to publish results are available. Active support is given for proposal writing.
• This infrastructure, in combination with the vibrant working environment provides a solid basis to develop and pursue own research ideas and to build or consolidate your research profile.

Further information

The position is salaried and based on the collective agreement of the Länder (TV‑L). If the personal and collective agreement requirements are met, the employee will receive pay grade TVL‑E13 (TV‑L).

Further information can be found at (in German).

The place of work is Ruhr University Bochum.

Please provide a single PDF including: 1‑2‑page cover letter outlining your academic background and skillset, the reasons you are interested in the project, and other points of relevance; CV and academic transcript (a copy of your M.Sc. and PhD certificates and any other relevant documents); contact details of one or two former advisors or supervisors (referees). Once shortlisted, we will arrange for a videoconference or in‑person interview. The exact starting date will be coordinated with the successful candidate. For details and further information, please contact Prof. Daniel Herwartz ( ).

RUB sees itself as a university with an international presence. The campus languages are German and English. Competence in at least one of the two languages and the willingness to learn the other are a prerequisite. RUB provides corresponding free courses for employees. German language courses are offered by the University Language Center (ZFA) in the field of German as a Foreign Language (DaF)

The Staff Council has the right to participate in all selection interviews. At the request of a candidate, it will ensure its participation in the entire procedure. Please contact

Contact persons for further information

Daniel Herwartz, Tel.: + ‑22307

Travel costs, accommodation costs and loss of earnings or other application costs for job interviews can unfortunately not be reimbursed.

We look forward to receiving your application via our online application portal by . Please make sure to mention the reference number ANR 5193.

Online application

The Ruhr‑Universität Bochum is one of Germany’s leading research universities, addressing the whole range of academic disciplines. A highly dynamic setting enables researchers and students to work across the traditional boundaries of academic subjects and faculties. To create knowledge networks within and beyond the university is Ruhr‑Universität Bochum’s declared aim.

The Ruhr‑Universität Bochum stands for diversity and equal opportunities. For this reason, we favour a working environment composed of heterogeneous teams, and seek to promote the careers of individuals who are underrepresented in our respective professional areas. The Ruhr‑Universität Bochum expressly requests job applications from women. In areas in which they are underrepresented they will be given preference in the case of equivalent qualifications with male candidates. Applications from individuals with disabilities are most welcome.