Stellenausschreibung

The Institute for Mineralogy is seeking to fill two PhD positions with a new EU Marie Skłodowska-Curie initial training network, FluidNET. Research will focus on fluid reactions and pathways within the Earth. The network will run for 4 years (1 January 2021 - 31 December 2024) including 3 years funding for research for each position within this period. The following positions are now open for application:


Doctoral Research Associate (x2)
Wissenschaftliche Mitarbeiterin/Wissenschaftlicher Mitarbeiter
(full-time, salary level TV-L E 13)

These fixed-term posts are available for 3 years. Currently, the regular full employment time is 39 hours and 50 minutes per week.


Project 1: Quantifying processes of fluid-rock interaction at the nano-scale
The scope of duties includes:

Observing and measuring nano-scale fluid-mineral interaction using analytical techniques including atomic force microscopy (AFM) to directly observe replacement reactions and porosity development in rock-forming minerals, such as carbonates and silicates. Constraining the chemistry of fluids for the optimal formation of porosity and fluid inclusions during replacement reactions. Using stable isotopes (18O, 13C) to track porosity development and element mobilization.


Expected results:
In situ experiments at the nano-scale will provide new constraints on reaction kinetics from time-sequences of images during reactions with specified solutions, that simulate natural fluids, constraining composition, IS, pH and T. On the basis of AFM data and interpretation, new systems will be investigated specifically for results showing the formation of interface-coupled processes that could lead to the development of porosity within the mineral and hence also fluid inclusions. This could also lead to the technical application of specifically designed geomimetic porous materials.


Project 2: Validating fluid permeation by experimental fluid-rock interaction
The scope of duties includes:

Using model mineral systems in hydrothermal experiments to develop porosity and fluid inclusions in rock-forming minerals such as silicates and carbonates. Constraining the conditions under which porosity and fluid inclusions are formed.


Expected results:
These constraints (P, T, t and chemical composition) in reacting minerals will highlight potential fluid permeation within rocks. Further experiments will optimise fluid inclusion formation and evolution. Such experiments using typical rock-forming minerals will provide insights into “real” scenarios in the rocks obtained from field excursions and hence an understanding of the conditions of formation of porosity and potential fluid flow within minerals and rocks.


The following requirements must be met for both positions:

  • Candidates must hold a certified MSc degree that was awarded less than 4 years from the commencement of the contract for entry into doctoral studies.
  • Positions are only available for applicants who have spent less than 12 months in Germany within the past 3 years.
  • English is the official language of the network. Therefore candidates must be proficient in both written and spoken English.


For further information visit the website (www.fluidnet.eu) or contact Christine Putnis at putnisc@uni-muenster.de.


The University of Münster is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to increasing the proportion of women academics. Consequently, we actively encourage applications by women. Female candidates with equivalent qualifications and academic achievements will be preferentially considered within the framework of the legal possibilities.

The University of Münster is committed to employing more staff with disabilities. Candidates with recognised severe disabilities who have equivalent qualifications are given preference in hiring decisions.

Please submit your application via e-mail, together with the usual documents, by 12 March 2021 to: putnisc@uni-muenster.de and minsek@uni-muenster.de to the following address:


Institut für Mineralogie
Apl. Prof. Christine Putnis
Corrensstrasse 24
48149 Muenster
Germany