PhD Position in Marine Isotope Geochemistry and Southern Ocean Silicon Cycling, University of Oldenburg, Germany

Summary

The University of Oldenburg seeks a doctoral candidate for a 36‑month position in paleoceanography and isotope geochemistry within the Institute for Chemistry and Biology of the Marine Environment (ICBM). The project SO‑SiMPT will reconstruct Southern Ocean silicon cycling across the Mid‑Pleistocene Transition using stable silicon isotopes from IODP Expedition 383 samples. The candidate will process and analyse samples, interpret data, and co‑author publications. Applicants must hold a Master or Diploma in earth sciences, analytical chemistry or a related field, possess strong English skills, and ideally have experience with isotopic mass spectrometry and diatom taxonomy. The role offers a collective‑agreement salary, annual special payment, extensive benefits, and support through the OLTECH graduate school.

Key Facts

About the Project

The SO‑SiMPT project aims to reconstruct changes in silicon cycling in the Southern Ocean during the Mid‑Pleistocene Transition. By analysing stable silicon isotopes in different diatom fractions from IODP Expedition 383, the study will quantify variations in dissolved silicon utilization and integrate these data with proxies for productivity, nutrient cycling, upwelling, and dust supply to understand past climate dynamics.

Key Responsibilities

• Process and analyse samples for stable silicon isotopes
• Document, interpret and publish data and results
• Collaborate with project partners and integrate isotope data with other proxies
• Prepare and maintain laboratory records related to the project

Required Skills

• Independent work capability
• Excellent written and spoken English
• Background in paleoclimate/paleoceanography or geochemistry
• Experience with inorganic‑geochemical sample processing and mass‑spectrometric isotope analysis (preferred)
• Knowledge of diatom taxonomy (preferred)

Who Should Apply

Applicants with a Master or Diploma (not from a University of Applied Sciences) in earth sciences, analytical chemistry or a related discipline, who have background in paleoclimate, paleoceanography or geochemistry, and who can work independently in English. Preference is given to those with experience in inorganic‑geochemical sample processing, mass‑spectrometric isotope analysis, or diatom taxonomy.

Benefits

• 30 days vacation
• Secure remuneration according to collective agreement
• Company pension scheme
• Further education opportunities
• Flexible working hours
• Health management
• Remote working
• Compatibility of career and family
• Support with childcare
• University Sports Centre
• Bicycle‑friendly employer
• Corporate benefits

About the Employer

The Institute for Chemistry and Biology of the Marine Environment (ICBM) is an interdisciplinary research institute at the University of Oldenburg, focusing on fundamental and applied marine research. It brings together chemistry, biology, physics and mathematical modelling across more than 20 research groups to study marine environmental systems.