Doctoral Candidate in Paleoceanography/Isotope Geochemistry

The ICBM is an interdisciplinary research institute for fundamental and applied marine research. The institute aims at understanding the function of marine environmental systems through close cooperation of the various scientific disciplines (chemistry, biology, physics, mathematical modelling) of its more than 20 research groups. 

The working group Marine Isotope Geochemistry uses stable and radiogenic isotope systems (Si, Fe, Nd, Sr, Pb) and trace element concentrations to investigate biogeochemical processes, element cycles and inputs to the ocean, and to reconstruct changes in the marine environment during past intervals of climate change.

Your tasks

The project ‘SO-SiMPT: Variations in Southern Ocean Silicon Cycling During the Mid-Pleistocene Transition (IODP Expedition 383)’ aims to reconstruct changes in silicon cycling in the Pacific Southern Ocean across the Mid-Pleistocene Transition using stable silicon isotopes of different diatom fractions from IODP Expedition 383. The records will be used to quantify relative changes in dissolved silicon utilization of the available nutrient pool at orbital- to millennial-scale resolution. The isotope data will be integrated with complementary proxies for primary productivity, nutrient cycling, upwelling intensity, and dust supply. Responsibilities of the successful candidate include the processing and analysis of samples for stable silicon isotopes, as well as the documentation, interpretation and publication of the data and results in collaboration with other project partners.

Your profile

Recruitment requirements are:

• University degree (Master or Diploma, not of a University of Applied Sciences) in earth sciences, analytical chemistry or a related field
• Background in paleoclimate/paleoceanography and/or geochemistry
• Ability to work independently
• Excellent English language skills (written and spoken)

Ideally you have:

• Background in inorganic-geochemical sample processing and analysis, preferably in the mass spectrometric analysis of metal isotopes or trace elements
• Background in diatom taxonomy 

We offer

• A 36-month doctoral position at the Institute for Chemistry and Biology of the Marine Environment, at the University Oldenburg
• Intensive support during your doctorate
• Stimulating scientific environment in an internationally connected, open, and friendly working environment. 
• Participation in the OLTECH graduate school of the Mathematical-Natural Science Faculty of the University of Oldenburg.
• Personal and professional growth: you’ll have opportunities to attend conferences, summer schools, courses, and workshops, expanding your network, skills, and career prospects through mentoring and training.
• Well-being and community: Take advantage of the university’s health promotion and sports programs to stay active and connected.
• Payment according to collective agreement (TVL) incl. annual special payment

Our standards

The University of Oldenburg is dedicated to increase the percentage of female employees in the field of science. Therefore, female candidates are strongly encouraged to apply. In accordance to § 21 Section 3 NHG, female candidates with equal qualifications will be preferentially considered. Applicants with disabilities will be given preference in case of equal qualification.

Further information

Starting day is 01.02.2027 or as soon as possible.

Contact

For further information, please contact Dr. Claudia Ehlert,  , Tel. (+49) 441 798 3359.

Apply now

Please send your application via e-mail by 30.11.2026 to

Please send your application including a cover letter, CV, certificates and contact information of up to three referees in a single pdf document twith the subject ‘SO-SiMPT’.

Regulations prohibit reimbursement of application and interview expenses.