Doctoral Researcher (f_m_x) - Rock Mechanics and Rock Physics

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”.

Doctoral Researcher (f_m_x) – Rock Mechanics and Rock Physics

Reference Number 11146

This position is part of the Marie Skłodowska‑Curie Doctoral Network (MSCA‑DN) MiningBrines (Multidisciplinary Integration and Networking for Increased Sustainability and Multi‑Resources Valorisation of Geothermal Brines). MiningBrines offers an innovative doctoral training program designed to address Europe’s strategic need for sustainable access to critical raw materials (CRM), energy gases (EG), and renewable energy resources.

Within the network, 19 Doctoral Candidates (DCs) will receive interdisciplinary training in geosciences, biogeochemistry, artificial intelligence (AI), and socio‑economic analysis. This program will equip them with advanced expertise in reservoir modelling, machine learning, advanced oxidation processes (AOP), and microbial enhanced recovery. In addition, DCs will develop intuitive fluid‑chemistry modelling workflows and innovative multi‑criteria intelligent decision‑support tools, enabling them to drive innovation in geothermal brine mining while collaborating with academic and industrial partners on practical, real‑world solutions.

This PhD project aims to decipher the interplay between the chemical alteration of fractured rock and the evolution of its mechanical properties, with application to low‑to‑medium‑enthalpy geothermal reservoirs. Using laboratory experiments and numerical modelling, the study seeks to improve understanding of fluid‑mediated slip along altered faults, associated seismicity, and reaction‑induced changes in fracture permeability.

To achieve this, two types of geothermally relevant rock will be selected and artificially fractured. Long‑term flow‑through experiments will then be conducted to induce structural changes in the fractures, after which the samples will be mechanically retested. These experiments will be complemented by coupled thermal‑hydraulic‑mechanical‑chemical (THMC) numerical modelling at the sample scale. Finally, the results will be integrated into hydrogeological reservoir‑scale THM(C) models and validated using data from operating geothermal sites.

Responsibilities

• Select rock samples from outcrops and perform detailed mineralogical and microstructural analyses.
• Conduct advanced rock mechanical and rock physical experiments.
• Carry out coupled thermal–hydraulic–mechanical–chemical (THMC) numerical modelling in relation to experimental results.
• Validate model outcomes using data from geothermal field operations.
• Interpret results and disseminate findings through peer‑reviewed publications and presentations at scientific conferences and workshops.

Qualifications

• A Master’s degree (or equivalent) in a relevant discipline.
• Strong motivation for interdisciplinary research.
• Excellent command of spoken and written English (mandatory).
• Strong interest in experimental rock mechanics and rock physics, ideally demonstrated through MSc research or relevant work experience.
• Interest in coupled THMC modelling is desirable; prior experience is a plus.
• Experience in mineralogical and microstructural rock characterisation is advantageous.
• Willingness and ability to work in both laboratory and field environments (essential).

Eligibility Criteria

• Researchers recruited within the Doctoral Network must be Early Stage Researchers (ESRs) and must not have already been awarded a doctoral degree.
• At the time of recruitment, researchers must not have resided or carried out their main activity (work, studies, etc.) in the country of the recruiting beneficiary for more than 12 months in the 36 months immediately before their recruitment date (EU mobility rule).

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.
• 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.

Start date: As soon as possible

Fixed term: 3 years

Salary: Each fellowship includes the following attractive salary (subject to local taxes, social security deductions, etc.):

• 4058 € per month gross living allowance.
• 710 € per month gross mobility allowance.
• When applicable, a family allowance may also be provided in the amount of 660 € per month gross.

Working hours: Full‑time (currently 39 h/week)

Place of work: Potsdam