Job advertisement

Vacancy ID: 232/2026
Closing date: 2026-10-18
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The Friedrich Schiller University Jena is a dynamic and innovation-driven university centrally located in Germany. With a broad range of disciplines, it shapes the future through excellent research and teaching. Its scientific excellence is reflected in the profile areas Light – Life – Liberty, which provide pioneering insights and sustainable solutions for the society of tomorrow. Through close collaborations with leading research institutions, innovative companies, and renowned cultural organizations, it advances interdisciplinary developments. With around 17,000 students and approximately 10,000 employees, it defines Jena as a vibrant, internationally connected city of science and innovation.

Commencing on 01 January 2027 and pending final approval by the funding body, the Institute of Geosciences seeks to fill the position of a

Doctoral Researcher

in a project on the topic of

Analysis of the reactivation potential of preexisting macro- to microscale fractures in the basement of the Thuringian Basin in the current stress field

We offer a part-time position (75%, 30 hours per week) until 31. Dec. 2029.

The project focuses on the geothermal potential of Thuringia’s crystalline subsurface. The exploration of deep geothermal resources requires a detailed understanding of the subsurface regarding the depth of the crystalline rocks, their petrography, their macro- to microscale fabrics, and their thermal, petrophysical and hydraulic properties. In addition, knowledge of the mechanical behaviour of preexisting fractures within the current stress field is required. As part of the Structural Geology Group at the Institute of Geosciences in Jena, you will work on these issues alongside with partners from research, municipal heat supply, the State Geological Survey and industry, thereby making an active contribution to the decarbonisation of energy and heat supply in Central Germany.

Your responsibilities:

  • Analysis of the geological situation in the Thuringian Basin based on cross-sections, contour maps and the correlation of available boreholes,
  • Macro- to microscale analysis of brittle-tectonic deformation in crystalline rocks around the Thuringian Basin, using fieldwork and microscopic techniques,
  • Analysis of the reactivation potential of preexisting fractures under varying stress and fluid pressure conditions using the slip and dilation tendency approach,
  • Presentation of research findings at internal project meetings and at scientific conferences,
  • Publication of the results in national and international peer-reviewed journals as part of your PhD.

Your profile:

  • A successfully completed Master’s degree in Earth Sciences (with a specialisation in tectonics, structural geology, geomechanics, geothermal energy or comparable subjects).
  • Knowledge of frictional deformation processes and tectonic stress analysis.
  • Knowledge of polarisation microscopy.
  • Ability to carry out independent scientific work and to address geoscientific issues in a structured manner, both in the field and in the laboratory.
  • Experience with geographical information systems (GIS).
  • Programming skills are desirable (e.g. MATLAB, Python and/or R).
  • Proficiency in German (at least level C1) to ensure effective communication with project partners.
  • Excellent spoken and written English.
  • Driving licence (category B) is very advantageous.

We offer:

  • Remuneration based on the provisions of the Collective Agreement for the Public Sector of the Federal States (TV-L) up to salary scale E13 — depending on the candidate’s personal qualifications.
  • Opportunity to pursue a PhD
  • Interesting and varied tasks (at an international level) and participation in international conferences
  • The chance to help shape pioneering developments at a both modern and traditional university covering all disciplines
  • A comprehensive further and continuing education programme and individual qualification and development measures
  • A Graduate Academy for doctoral candidates and postdocs;•
  • A family-friendly working environment with a variety of offers for families: University Family Office ‘JUniFamilie’ and flexible childcare (‘JUniKinder);
  • University health promotion and a wide range of university sports activities;
  • 30 days of vacation per calendar year plus two days off on December 24 and 31

The advertised post is a fixed-term position for a maximum of three years.

Candidates with severe disabilities will be given preference in the case of equal qualifications and suitability.

Are you eager to work for us? Then apply by 18 October 2026 using our online form.



For further information for applicants and the information on the collection of personal data, please refer to Data privacy and information for applicants