PhD Researcher (f/m/x) - " Scaling of biochemical and hydraulic controls on nitrate uptake and removal in streams"
The job
As part of a DFG-funded project " Scaling of biochemical and hydraulic controls on nitrate uptake and removal in streams" we offer a position for a PhD student (f/m/x).The project aims to investigate the processes that control nitrate degradation in medium-sized rivers. Turnover rates of nitrogen due to assimilatory uptake by phototrophic organisms (N uptake) and dissimilatory uptake (N removal) by heterotrophic bacteria in streams and their sediments are investigated. In particular, we analyze the role of river hydraulics and riverbed morphology as important but comparatively unexplored influencing factors. The project is being carried out jointly with the RPTU Kaiserslautern-Landau, which is supporting the project with a complementary PhD position.
Place of work
MagdeburgWorking time
75 % (29,25 h / Woche)Contract limitations
limited contract / 36 monthsSalary
Remuneration according to the TVöD public-sector up to pay grade 13 including attractive public-sector social security benefits.Contact
Your contact for any questions you may have about the job:
Prof. Dr. Michael Rode
michael.rode@ufz.de
The UFZ
The Helmholtz Centre for Environmental Research (UFZ) with its 1,100 employees has gained an excellent reputation as an international competence centre for environmental sciences. We are part of the largest scientific organisation in Germany, the Helmholtz association. Our mission: Our research seeks to find a balance between social development and the long-term protection of our natural resources.
The job
As part of a DFG-funded project " Scaling of biochemical and hydraulic controls on nitrate uptake and removal in streams" we offer a position for a PhD student (f/m/x).
The project aims to investigate the processes that control nitrate degradation in medium-sized rivers. Turnover rates of nitrogen due to assimilatory uptake by phototrophic organisms (N uptake) and dissimilatory uptake (N removal) by heterotrophic bacteria in streams and their sediments are investigated. In particular, we analyze the role of river hydraulics and riverbed morphology as important but comparatively unexplored influencing factors. The project is being carried out jointly with the RPTU Kaiserslautern-Landau, which is supporting the project with a complementary PhD position.
Your tasks
- Measurement of nitrate removal in river sediment using hyporheic water and solute flux measurements
- Measurements for nitrate uptake in river sections using high-frequency sensor measurements
- Microcosm incubation measurements for N-turnover in the water column of flowing waters.
- Scientific analysis and publication of the results and their relation to nitrate turnover (in cooperation with project partners)
We offer
- Excellent supervision and optimal professional and interdisciplinary qualification through our HIGRADE graduate programme
- The freedom to master even the most demanding challenges between basic research and practical application
- The opportunity to work in interdisciplinary, international teams and benefit from a wide range of perspectives
- Firstclass integration into national and international research networks to work together on global challenges
- Excellent research infrastructure and research data management to optimally support your work
- A wide range of options for balancing care responsibilities and work through our family office
- Competent support and advice for international colleagues arriving at the UFZ from the ‘International Office’
- Special annual payment, capital-forming benefits and subsidised Deutschland-Job-Ticket
- A workplace in a vibrant region with a high life quality and social and cultural diversity
Your profile
- Expertise in aquatic biogeochemistry, water quality, hydraulics and hydrology demonstrated by a Master's degree in hydrology, geoecology, biology, physical geography or related fields
- Experience with high-frequency sensor water analyses is an advantage
- Experience in working with model-based water quality analysis is desirable but not essential
- Good communication skills in English