The Department of Earth and Environmental Sciences at Ludwig Maximilian University of Munich (LMU) is seeking to fill a doctoral position in the field of magmatic petrology and volcanology as part of a DFG-funded Emmy Noether project starting in January 2026 (headed by Dr. Edgar Zorn). The project aims to investigate compaction processes of volcanic loose materials and their effects on surface deformations, changes in the physical and mechanical properties of loose materials, as well as their failure strengths and the stability of volcano flanks. The approach is interdisciplinary and specifically combines methods from field geology, remote sensing, laboratory-based petrophysics and numerical modelling.
Your tasks and responsibilities:
- Compiling lithological and geodetic data on volcanoes with compacting deposits from current and past eruptions (particularly on the Canary Islands and Aeolian Islands) using field and remote sensing methods (satellites, drones, etc.)
- Sampling of loose materials and conducting systematic laboratory experiments to determine petrophysical and thermal properties (porosity, permeability, density, etc.) as well as compactability and shear strength using uni- and multi-axial presses
- Independent research activity with the aim of obtaining a scientific qualification in the form of a doctorate degree
- Active participation in field work and presentation of research results at international conferences
- Collaboration in a defined research context and publication of research results in international journals
Table of Content
Summary
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Benefits
- Collaboration in a highly topical, socially relevant research project in the field of volcanology
- Opportunity for independent research, publication and further scientific qualification
- Flexible working conditions and involvement in the research and teaching activities of the Chair of Magmatic Petrology and Volcanology
- State-of-the-art workplace equipment and unique geoscience laboratories
- The position is for a fixed term of three years, with remuneration depending on qualifications up to E13 TV-L
People with disabilities who are equally as qualified as other applicants will receive preferential treatment.
Requirements
- A master's degree in geosciences, geology, geophysics or a related subject
- High motivation for planning and carrying out independent research work as well as an independent, structured and responsible approach to work
- Basic knowledge of geoscientific and geospatial data processing is required
- Expertise and project experience in one or more of the following fields: volcanology, satellite remote sensing, photogrammetry, petrology/petrophysics
- Fluency in spoken and written English is required
- Experience with programming languages is desirable (e.g. Matlab, Python)
- Experience in scientific work in the field and/or in the laboratory is desirable
- Experience with drones and an EU licence (A1/A3) is desirable
- Experience in the publication of scientific literature is desirable
Application Deadline
December 15, 2025How To Apply
For more information, kindly visit LMU scholarship webpage.
