Interdisciplinary PhD position (65%) (f/m/x) The Rhine Floodplain – a Biogeochemically Coupled System under Stress Wiss2611-06

Interdisciplinary PhD position (f/m/x)

We are one of the largest and oldest universities in Europe and one of the most important employers in our region. Our broad range of subjects, the dynamic development of our main research areas and our central location in Cologne make us attractive for students and researchers from around the world. We offer a wide range of career opportunities in science, technology, and administration.

Floodplains are dynamic, valuable ecosystems increasingly threate- WE OFFER

ned by river regulation, land use, and climate change. The University

of Cologne’s project “The Rhine Floodplain – a Biogeochemically » Exciting research in an interdisciplinary project with 2 other PhD Coupled System under Stress” investigates how altered hydrology students and a postdoc

affects sediment dynamics, biodiversity, food webs, microbial pro- » A diverse working environment with equal opportunities cesses, and greenhouse gas emissions.

» Support in balancing work and family life » Flexible working time models

» Extensive advanced training opportunities YOUR TASKS

» Occupational health management offers

» Characterise floodplain sediments using sedimentological and The University of Cologne promotes equal opportunities and geochemical techniques diversity. Women will be considered preferentially in accordance » Determine deposition ages and sedimentation rates using lumi- with the Equal Opportunities Act of North Rhine-Westphalia nescence dating and fallout radionuclides (Landesgleichstellungsgesetz – LGG NRW). We also expressly wel- » Quantify microplastics and heavy metals in floodplain sediments come applications from all suitable candidates regardless of their » Quantify bioturbation using luminescence-based methods, gender, nationality, ethnic and social origin, religion, disability, age, sexual orientation and identity.

earthworm surveys and laboratory experiments

» Collaborate in joint field campaigns with an interdisciplinary

The position is available from 1 February 2027 on a part time basis team

with 25,89 hours per week. The position is to be filled for a fixed YOUR PROFILE term until 31 January 2030. If the applicant meets the relevant wage requirements and has the appropriate personal qualifica- » MSc in geography, geosciences, soil science, biology or a rela- tions, the salary is based on remuneration group 13 TV-L of the ted field pay scale for the German public sector.

» Experience in laboratory work and the analysis of complex data-

Please apply online with proof of the required qualifications (without sets

a photo) under https://jobportal.uni-koeln.de. The reference number » Ability and willingness to undertake fieldwork, including exten-

is Wiss2611-06.

ded stays at the Ecological Research Station Rees

The application deadline is 10 December 2026.

» Experience in sedimentological or geochemical analysis, lumi-For further inquiries, please contact Junior Professor Dr Svenja Rienescence dating or microplastic analysis is desirable

desel at (svenja.riedesel@uni-koeln.de) and take a look at our FAQs. » Excellent communication skills in English (C1 equivalent)

» Proficiency in German is desirable