Ruhr-Universität Bochum

The Ruhr-Universität Bochum is one of Germany’s leading research universities, addressing the whole range of academic disciplines. A highly dynamic setting enables researchers and students to work across the traditional boundaries of academic subjects and faculties. To create knowledge networks within and beyond the university is RUB’s declared aim.

Homepage: https://www.gmg.ruhr-uni-bochum.de/en/tectonics-and-resources

The Department of Tectonics and Resources investigates the tectonic evolution of Precambrian terranes and the formation of ore deposits. For our research, we use different geological subdisciplines, including petrology, structural geology, (isotope) geochemistry and thermochronology. The DFG-funded research project “Deep-time multi-mineral thermochronology of the Bushveld Igneous Complex – constraints for the upper crustal evolution of the northern Kaapvaal Craton” aims to reconstruct the ca. 2,000 Myr-long upper-crust geological evolution of the Bushveld Complex after its rapid emplacement and cooling below ca. 300°C. This will be based on recovering detailed thermal histories based on the systematic application of (U-Th)/He and fission-track dating of a large range of minerals with different closure temperatures, complemented by state-of the art techniques such as in-situ (U-Th)/He dating and Raman spectroscopy mapping. Part of the analyses will be conducted in cooperation with the Geoscience Center in Göttingen. The ultimate goal of the project is to improve our understanding of the long-lasting but poorly-constrained geological evolution of cratonic areas in the upper crust and to expand the toolbox for deep-time thermochronology.

Your tasks:
Field work in South Africa
Sample characterization/preparation and mineral separation
Mineral characterization and thermochronological analyses using a wide range of analytical techniques (optical microscopy, SEM, Raman spectroscopy, noble gas spectrometer, LA-ICP-MS)
Analysis of a large and complex dataset
Cooperation with other scientists, including colleagues from other institutes
Writing scientific reports and publications
Presenting research results in national and international scientific conferences
Administrative tasks related to the research project

Your profile:
The candidate should have a Master’s degree in geosciences or related fields. Previous experience with geo- or thermochronology and/or mineralogy, as well as familiarity with laboratory work is an advantage. The candidate should be motivated to test new methodologies and tackle complex research questions – many of the planned analyses/applications are novel and the candidate is expected to contribute with their own ideas to overcome potential challenges. An inquisitive nature and collaborative spirit are essential.

More information: https://jobs.ruhr-uni-bochum.de/jobposting/c840587c1b0a5d1a15e81e9724b5a839385482d90?ref=homepage

Applications, including a curriculum vitae, a cover letter (2 pages maximum) describing why you are a good fit, as well as degree certificates, should be emailed as a single .pdf file by April 30, 2024 to Mathias Hueck (mathias.hueck@ruhr-uni-bochum.de), who should also be contacted with any questions regarding the position. Further information about the Department of Tectonics and Resources and the Institute of Geology, Mineralogy and Geophysics can be found at http://www.gmg.ruhr-uni-bochum.de.