PhD position – Immobilisation of radium (226Ra) and strontium (90Sr) by carbonate minerals

Stellenbeschreibung:

Overview

We invite early-career researchers to apply for a PhD position within the joint research project “TRANSFER – Training and Research Academy for Nuclear Safety and Future Expertise on Geological Repository Systems”. The position is part of a structured doctoral program and focuses on the disposal of high-level radioactive waste.

Responsibilities

Conduct sorption/desorption experiments to determine the retention of 226Ra and 90Sr in carbonate-bearing claystones and its reversibility.
Conduct recrystallisation experiments to investigate the structural uptake of 226Ra into carbonate minerals.
Analyse selected samples from sorption and recrystallisation experiments using Raman spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and synchrotron-based methods (µ‑XRF and µ‑XRD).
Apply geochemical‑thermodynamic modelling to interpret the experiments.
Collaborate with reactive transport modellers to evaluate the migration behaviour of 226Ra and 90Sr in heterogeneous claystone formations across spatial and temporal scales.
Present results at scientific conferences and in peer‑reviewed publications.

Profile

Master’s degree, Diplom or equivalent in chemistry, radiogeochemistry, environmental chemistry, geochemistry, chemical engineering, mineralogy or related field.
Experience working in wet chemical laboratories.
Experience in geochemical or thermodynamic modelling is desirable.
Ability to work collaboratively within a multidisciplinary and international team.
Very good command of written and spoken English (at least B2 level according to the CEFR or supported by a certificate).

Benefits

Structured training programme within the TRANSFER graduate school on geological disposal, including seminars, summer and winter schools, conferences and research stays at partner institutions.
Motivated team with an international and interdisciplinary focus at one of the largest research institutions in Europe.
Access to excellent scientific and technical facilities.
Participation in (international) conferences and project meetings, building a scientific network.
Continuous expert guidance from an academic supervisor.
30 days of annual leave.
Professional development support, including training and networking opportunities for doctoral candidates.
Health and well‑being programme with various sports and wellness activities.
Campus experience with a research campus offering coworking and leisure facilities.
Structured onboarding including Welcome Days and a Welcome Guide.
Fair remuneration: pay group 13 (75%) of the TVöD‑Bund and a special Christmas bonus.

Diversity and Inclusion

We welcome applications from people with diverse backgrounds in terms of age, gender, disability, sexual orientation/identity, and social, ethnic and religious origin. A diverse and inclusive working environment with equal opportunities is important to us.