Postdoctoral Researcher in Paleomagnetism and Tectonics (m/f/d) at Heidelberg University – Germany

Summary

Heidelberg University’s Institute of Earth Sciences seeks a full‑time postdoctoral researcher (TV‑L E13) for its Geodynamics Group. The three‑year position, with possible part‑time, involves leading the heiMAG Laboratory while developing an independent research program in paleomagnetism and rock magnetism related to tectonics, geodynamics and Earth history. Responsibilities include conducting and publishing research, creating reproducible methods and data workflows, supporting collaborative projects and third‑party funding, and training students and visitors. Applicants must hold a Ph.D. in geosciences, geophysics or a related discipline, possess relevant publications and hands‑on laboratory experience, and demonstrate strong analytical, communication and teamwork skills. Excellent spoken and written English is required; German is advantageous. Applications close on 30 October 2026 and must be submitted as a single PDF to Prof. Dr. Derya Gürer.

Key Facts

Department	Institute of Earth Sciences
Position Type	Full-time
Discipline	Geosciences
Research Area	Paleomagnetism and rock magnetism applied to tectonics
Degree Required	Ph.D. in geosciences, geophysics, or related field
Experience	Relevant research publications and hands‑on paleomagnetic or rock‑magnetic laboratory experience
Salary	TV-L E13
Funding	Salary (TV-L E13)
Contract Duration	Three years (initial)
Language	English (required), German (advantage)
Deadline	2026-10-30
Required Documents	Motivation letter (max 1 page), CV with publication list and teaching portfolio, research statement (max 2 pages), relevant certificates
Employer Contact	Prof. Dr. Derya Gürer, email: [email protected]

About the Project

The postdoctoral researcher will co‑lead the heiMAG Laboratory for Earth Magnetism and establish an independent research line focusing on paleomagnetism and rock magnetism to address questions in tectonics, geodynamics, paleogeography, geomagnetic‑field evolution and broader Earth‑history contexts. The work emphasizes developing reproducible measurement methods, robust data workflows, and quality‑control procedures, while integrating magnetic data with tectonic models and contributing to collaborative, funded projects.

Key Responsibilities

• Conduct and publish internationally visible research in paleomagnetism and related fields
• Link magnetic measurements to tectonic, geodynamic and Earth‑history questions
• Develop reproducible methods, data workflows and quality‑control procedures
• Support collaborative research and third‑party funding efforts
• Train students and visiting researchers, contribute to teaching and supervise student research
• Assist in leading the heiMAG Laboratory for Earth Magnetism

Required Skills

• Hands‑on paleomagnetic or rock‑magnetic laboratory experience
• Strong analytical, communication and teamwork abilities
• Excellent spoken and written English
• Ability to develop reproducible methods and data workflows

Who Should Apply

Early‑career researchers with a Ph.D. in geosciences, geophysics or a closely related field, who have demonstrated research output and practical experience in paleomagnetic or rock‑magnetic laboratory techniques, and who are proficient in English (German advantageous).

About the Employer

Heidelberg University’s Institute of Earth Sciences hosts the Geodynamics Group and operates the heiMAG Laboratory for Earth Magnetism, offering a research environment focused on Earth‑science investigations.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the application deadline?

The deadline is 30 October 2026.

Which language proficiency is required?

Excellent spoken and written English is required; German is an advantage but not mandatory.

What documents must be submitted?

A single PDF containing a motivation letter (max 1 page), CV with publication list and teaching portfolio, research statement (max 2 pages), and relevant certificates.