The Institute of Fusion Energy and Nuclear Waste Management - Nuclear Waste Management (IFN-2) aims to advance the understanding of complex processes governing the evolution of deep geological repositories for radioactive wastes. Our work focuses on the tightly coupled thermo-hydraulic-mechanical-chemical-biological (THMCB) processes that drive radionuclide release and transport over time and space. By integrating innovative experimental and computational methods, including AI tools, we generate insights into the evolution of flow and transport processes in the repository system across scales, striving to reduce uncertainties and conservatism in safety assessments. Our research supports the scientific foundation needed for a rigorous evaluation of repository concepts and sites, contributing to safe and sustainable solutions for radioactive waste management.
We are offering a
PhD Position – Investigating the Incorporation of 226Ra into Calcium Carbonate
Activities and responsibilities
Your tasks within the project:
- Development of microfluidic experiments for 226Ra uptake in carbonates
- Conducting advanced analyses of Ra-bearing carbonates using Raman, XRD, SEM, including synchrotron-based X-ray analysis (µ-XRF and µ-XRD)
- Modeling of fluid flow in microfluidic reactors
- Collaboration with modelers (atomistic simulation) to derive the thermodynamic properties of Ra-bearing carbonates
- Presentation of results at scientific conferences and in peer-reviewed publications
Qualification profile
- Master’s degree or diploma in chemistry, radiochemistry, environmental chemistry, geochemistry, chemical engineering, mineralogy, or a related field
- Experience in working in a wet chemical laboratory
- Experience in geochemical or thermodynamic modeling is desirable
- Strong English communication and writing skills
- Ability to work collaboratively in a multidisciplinary and international team
We offer
- A unique opportunity to work on high-impact research in nuclear waste management
- Access to state-of-the-art facilities and interdisciplinary collaborations
- Opportunity to develop your strengths, e.g., through a comprehensive training program; a structured program including continuing professional development and networking opportunities specifically designed for Jülich’s doctoral researchers by the Jülich Center for Doctoral Researchers and Supervisors (JuDocS): https://go.fzj.de/JuDocs
- Very good conditions for reconciling work and family life and a family-friendly company policy
- The opportunity to work flexibly (in terms of location), e.g., in a home office in coordination with the supervisor and in line with required presence times
- 30 days of annual leave (depending on the working time model chosen) and provision for days off between public holidays and weekends (e.g., between Christmas and New Year)
- Targeted services for international employees, e.g., through our International Advisory Service
In addition to exciting tasks and the collaborative working atmosphere at Jülich, we have a lot more to offer: https://www.fz-juelich.de/en/careers/julich-as-an-employer/benefits.
The position is for a fixed term of three years. Pay will be in line with 65% of pay group 13 of the Collective Agreement for the Public Service (TVöD-Bund) and additionally 60% of a monthly salary as special payment (“Christmas bonus”). Pay higher than the basic pay may be possible. The monthly salaries in euros can be found on page 66 of the PDF download: https://go.fzj.de/bmi.tvoed. Further information on doctoral degrees at Forschungszentrum Jülich, including our other locations, is available at https://www.fz-juelich.de/gp/Careers_Docs.
We welcome applications from people with diverse backgrounds, e.g., in terms of age, gender, disability, sexual orientation / identity, and social, ethnic, and religious origin. A diverse and inclusive working environment with equal opportunities, in which everyone can realize their potential, is important to us.
We look forward to receiving your application. The job will be advertised until the position has been successfully filled. You should therefore submit your application as soon as possible via our Online Recruitment System: https://www.fz-juelich.de/en/careers/jobs/2025D-002?apply
Questions about the Offer?
Please feel free to contact us via our contact form: https://www.fz-juelich.de/en/careers/jobs/2025D-002?contact
Please note that for technical reasons we cannot accept applications via e-mail.
You can find helpful information on the application and selection process here: https://www.fz-juelich.de/en/careers/application-information
You can also find answers to frequently asked questions in our FAQs: https://www.fz-juelich.de/en/careers/application-information/faq
www.fz-juelich.de