Planetary Research Jobs

Applications are invited for a PhD position in the Earth and Planetary Geodynamics (EPG) research group at the University of Freiburg. The successful candidate will investigate the formation of tectonic and magmatic structures on Venus and their implications for planetary mission data and early Earth dynamics. The project is funded by the Volkswagen Foundation through its “Understanding the Earth as a System” initiative. The position is offered for 3.5 years at 70% TV-L E13 pay scale, with a flexible starting date in late summer/fall 2026, and includes a generous research budget for computational resources, conference travel, and project-related expenses.

About the project: The project will focus on modelling the tectonic evolution of selected sites on Venus that show potential for active deformation and possible crustal recycling. Using high-end 3D geodynamic simulations with the I3ELVIS code, it will examine how mantle flow, lithospheric structure, inherited rheological weaknesses, and surface boundary conditions generate the observed morphologies of these regions. By comparison with available datasets (i.e., surface deformation, gravity, and topography), this analysis will clarify the limitations of available observations and help determine which forthcoming measurements from forthcoming missions (ESA’s EnVision and NASA’s VERITAS) will be most critical for discriminating between competing tectonic scenarios. The project will then extend selected tectonic settings to early Earth conditions. By modelling analogous environments under terrestrial conditions, it will investigate how subduction may have initiated on the early Earth and which factors govern the transition from distributed deformation to plate-boundary-like behaviour and sustained lithospheric recycling. This comparative framework will provide new constraints on the physical conditions that favour the onset of plate-tectonic behaviour on rocky planets.

About the research environment: The University of Freiburg offers a vibrant, collaborative, and interdisciplinary research environment. Geosciences are embedded within the Faculty of Environment and Natural Resources (UNR), which brings together research across Earth, planetary, and environmental sciences, geography, and forest sciences. The department is strengthening its planetary science profile and has recently launched an Earth and Planetary Sciences major within the Earth Sciences MSc curriculum. The EPG group has recently been established and benefits from strong institutional support, close collaboration with neighbouring research groups, and an active national and international network. The group offers a collegial atmosphere with frequent scientific exchange, mentoring, and career development support. Apart from the direct project skills, the PhD researcher will also receive training in scientific communication, computational skills, and data visualisation.

About you: You should have completed (or be close to completing) an MSc degree in geoscience, geophysics, planetary science, physics, or a closely related field. Applicants with experience or a strong interest in geodynamics, geology, or planetary remote sensing are particularly encouraged to apply. The position requires quantitative skills and some programming experience (e.g., Python, C++, MATLAB, Julia, or similar). Experience with high-performance computing is advantageous but not required. You are expected to contribute actively to the research group, engage with the broader faculty environment, support teaching and mentoring of BSc/MSc students, and present your research at international meetings. We value diversity of background and thought, and applicants from underrepresented groups, non-traditional academic paths, and a wide range of experiences are encouraged to apply.

Application requirements: To apply, please email the group’s lead, Anna Gülcher (anna.guelcher@geodynamics.uni-freiburg.de) a single PDF containing: a cover letter describing your research interests and relevant experience (max. 2 pages), a CV, an overview of MSc courses taken (such as a transcript), a short summary of your MSc thesis research (max. 1/2 page), and the contact details of at least one reference (preferably two). Review of applications will begin on June 20, 2026, and continue until the position is filled. For questions about the position, please contact Anna Gülcher at the same email address.