Research Assistant (Prae-doc) in Planetary Habitability Geosciences - 75% Part-Time

About the Project

The Collaborative Research Center (SFB 1759) "Habitability as a fundamental planetary process" at Freie Universität Berlin is investigating planetary habitability through the lens of fundamental physio-geo-chemical processes shaped by planetary evolution. This study moves beyond Earth-centric biological evolution to explore planetary boundary conditions derived from astronomy, physics, chemistry, and geology. By identifying signatures in planetary atmospheres and surfaces, the project aims to distinguish between abiotic processes and indications of extraterrestrial life, developing a comprehensive database of potential biosignatures and habitability traces.

Alongside natural sciences, this research center addresses ethical implications, scientific communication strategies, social media discourse, and public perception about extraterrestrial life, integrating perspectives from humanities and social sciences.

Position Overview

The Institute of Geological Sciences at Freie Universität Berlin invites applications for a prae-doctoral research assistant position within SFB 1759. The role offers the opportunity to pursue a doctoral degree and involves a 75% part-time commitment, limited until June 30, 2030, under salary grade 13 TV-L FU. The earliest possible start date is October 1, 2026, but starting times are flexible.

Key Responsibilities

• Support research focused on the interior evolution and physico-chemical characteristics of water-rich carbonaceous chondrite parent bodies and their implications for solar system habitability.
• Assist in acquisition and preparation of geological samples for analysis.
• Conduct bulk chemical analyses measuring major and trace elements of various sample aliquots.
• Perform studies using Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), Electron Probe Micro-Analyzer (EPMA), and Micro-Raman spectroscopy to characterize polished thin sections.
• Engage in oxygen isotope analysis in minerals and Mn-Cr dating of carbonates via Secondary Ion Mass Spectrometry (SIMS).

Requirements

• Completed Master's degree in Geological Sciences or a related discipline.
• Hands-on laboratory skills in geochemistry and petrology preferred.
• Strong analytical thinking, problem-solving aptitude, and excellent communication capabilities.
• Ability to work independently as well as collaboratively in research teams.
• Proficiency in English at B2/C1 level, both written and spoken.

Application Details

Applications must be submitted in English and include a cover letter, CV, names and contact details of two referees, copies of academic certificates and transcripts combined into a single PDF (max 10 MB). Applicants can apply for multiple positions within SFB 1759, clearly stating the reference codes. Send applications via email to coord@sfb1759-planetary-habitability.de. The application review will commence immediately after the deadline and continue until the position is filled.

Contact

For further details, contact Harry Becker: hbecker@zedat.fu-berlin.de.