Doctoral Researcher in Structural Geology and Geothermal Energy at Friedrich Schiller University Jena, Germany.

Summary

Friedrich Schiller University Jena is inviting applications for a 75% part-time Doctoral Researcher position within the Institute of Geosciences, focusing on Structural Geology and Geothermal Energy. The project investigates whether preexisting fractures in the crystalline basement of the Thuringian Basin can be reactivated under the current stress field, aiding in the assessment of deep geothermal potential for decarbonised heating. The position is fixed-term from January 1, 2027, through December 31, 2029, and paid according to the TV-L E13 pay scale. Candidates must hold a Master's degree in Earth Sciences or a related field, possess German proficiency at C1 level alongside excellent English, and have background knowledge in structural geology, stress analysis, and GIS. The deadline to apply online is October 18, 2026.

Key Facts

Department	Institute of Geosciences
Position Type	Doctoral Researcher
Discipline	Earth Sciences
Research Area	Structural Geology and Geothermal Energy
Degree Required	Master's degree in Earth Sciences, specialising in tectonics, structural geology, geomechanics, geothermal energy, or a comparable field
Experience	Knowledge of frictional deformation processes, tectonic stress analysis, and polarisation microscopy, plus GIS experience. Programming skills in MATLAB, Python, or R are desirable.
Salary	TV-L pay grade up to E13 depending on personal qualifications (75% part-time, 30 hours per week)
Funding	Subject to final approval by the funding body
Contract Duration	Fixed-term from January 1, 2027 to December 31, 2029
Language	German (at least C1 level) and English (excellent spoken and written)
Deadline	2026-10-18

About the Project

The research project examines whether preexisting fractures within the crystalline basement of the Thuringian Basin could be reactivated under present-day stress fields. By analyzing cross-sections, borehole data, field samples, and performing slip and dilation tendency assessments, the project supports evaluating deep geothermal energy potential to contribute to heat supply decarbonization.

Key Responsibilities

• Analyse the geological structure of the Thuringian Basin using cross-sections, contour maps, and borehole data
• Study brittle deformation in crystalline rocks at macro and micro scales through fieldwork and microscopy
• Assess fracture reactivation potential under different stress and fluid-pressure conditions using slip and dilation tendency methods
• Present findings at project meetings and scientific conferences
• Publish research results in peer-reviewed journals as part of the PhD

Required Skills

• Master's degree in Earth Sciences, specialising in tectonics, structural geology, geomechanics, geothermal energy, or a comparable field
• Knowledge of frictional deformation processes, tectonic stress analysis, and polarisation microscopy
• Ability to conduct independent, structured scientific work in the field and laboratory
• Experience with geographical information systems (GIS)
• German proficiency at least at C1 level and excellent spoken and written English

Who Should Apply

Candidates holding a Master's degree in Earth Sciences (with specialization in tectonics, structural geology, geomechanics, geothermal energy, or a related discipline), with German skills at C1 level or higher and fluent English. Applicants should have knowledge of frictional deformation, stress analysis, polarization microscopy, and GIS experience.

Benefits

• Remuneration based on TV-L, up to pay grade E13
• Opportunity to pursue a PhD
• Professional development and qualification support
• Access to the Graduate Academy
• Conference participation
• Family services, health promotion, and sports activities
• 30 days of annual leave plus two additional days off on December 24 and 31

About the Employer

Friedrich Schiller University Jena is a German university featuring an Institute of Geosciences and offers access to a Graduate Academy, family services, and health promotion programs.

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the deadline to apply?

The deadline to apply online is October 18, 2026.

What language skills are required?

Applicants require German proficiency of at least C1 level and excellent spoken and written English.

What is the working hours percentage and contract duration?

The position is 75% part-time (30 hours per week) and fixed-term from January 1, 2027, until December 31, 2029.

What degree is required to apply?

A Master's degree in Earth Sciences, specialising in tectonics, structural geology, geomechanics, geothermal energy, or a comparable field is required.

What pay scale applies to this position?

Remuneration is based on the TV-L pay scale, up to pay grade E13 depending on personal qualifications.