The Department of Physical Geography at the University of Göttingen is offering an exceptional opportunity for aspiring researchers to join a DFG-funded PhD project focused on the hydrology and formation of desert soils in southern Namibia. This fully funded position combines field-based research, laboratory analysis, and international collaboration, making it highly attractive for candidates pursuing advanced careers in environmental science, geography, or soil research.
Position Overview
- Role: Research Assistant / PhD Candidate
- Duration: 3 years (fixed-term)
- Workload: 75% (approx. 29.85 hours/week)
- Salary: TV-L E13 (German public sector pay scale)
- Location: Göttingen, Germany
- Application Deadline: 30 April 2026
Why This PhD Stands Out
This project is part of the DFG-funded research initiative: “Desert Pavements: Interactions with Pedogenic and Microbial Processes” It offers a rare combination of:
- Field campaigns in Namibia’s desert landscapes
- Advanced soil hydrology and geomorphology research
- Collaboration with international research institutions
- Publication opportunities in high-impact academic journals
Research Focus and Responsibilities
As a PhD candidate, your work will center on understanding water movement and soil formation processes in arid environments.
Key Research Activities
- Field measurements:
- Soil moisture and temperature
- Infiltration rates
- Surface runoff and sediment transport
- Laboratory analyses:
- Soil organic carbon fractions
- Pedogenic iron and carbonates
- Exchangeable cations and soluble salts
- Microscopic analysis:
- Soil thin sections
- Structural and spatial soil variability
- Surface crusts and vesicular horizons
You will also explore how landscape features and desert pavements influence hydrological processes and soil evolution.
Collaborative Research Environment
You will work within an interdisciplinary framework that includes:
- Enrollment in the GAUSS PhD Programme in Geography
- Joint supervision by three experienced researchers
- Collaboration with a second PhD researcher based at GFZ Potsdam, focusing on microbial soil processes
Together, you will investigate:
- Soil–microbe interactions
- Spatial patterns of pedogenesis
- Landscape-scale water fluxes
Life and Work in Göttingen
The University of Göttingen offers a vibrant academic environment:
- Located on a modern green campus
- Access to excellent research facilities
- A strong international academic community
- A lively student city with cafés, cultural venues, and cycling-friendly infrastructure
The historic city center is just 10 minutes by bike, offering a balanced academic and social lifestyle.
Candidate Requirements
Academic Background
- Master’s degree in:
- Geography
- Geoecology
- Soil Science
- Or a closely related field
Technical Expertise
- Strong knowledge of:
- Soil hydrology
- Pedogenesis
- Experience in laboratory soil analysis
Fieldwork Readiness
- Willingness to participate in extended field campaigns in Namibia
- Comfortable with basic field conditions, including camping
Core Skills
- Independent and team-oriented work style
- Strong organizational and communication abilities
- High motivation and resilience
Language Requirement
- Excellent English (written and spoken)
Additional Advantage
- Prior experience with fieldwork or camping in remote environments, especially in Africa
Equality and Inclusion
The University of Göttingen is committed to:
- Promoting gender equality in academia
- Supporting work–life balance
- Encouraging applications from individuals with disabilities
Qualified candidates from underrepresented groups are strongly encouraged to apply.
Application Process
Submit your application as a single PDF document including all standard materials (CV, transcripts, motivation letter, etc.). Submission Details: Deadline: 30 April 2026 Send to Email: physgeo@geo.uni-goettingen.de Department: Physical Geography, University of Göttingen
Contact for Inquiries:
- Prof. Dr. Daniela Sauer
- Phone: +49 (0)551 – 39 2801
- Email: daniela.sauer@geo.uni-goettingen.de
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Is this PhD position fully funded?
Yes, the position is funded under the German TV-L E13 pay scale at 75%, which is standard for PhD roles in Germany.
2. Do I need prior experience in desert research?
Not necessarily, but strong knowledge of soil hydrology and pedogenesis is essential. Field experience is an advantage.
3. How demanding is the fieldwork?
Field campaigns involve extended stays in desert environments with basic living conditions, including camping.
4. Will I have opportunities to publish research?
Yes, the program is structured to support the publication of at least three peer-reviewed journal articles.
5. Is knowledge of German required?
No, English proficiency is sufficient for this position.
6. What makes this PhD unique?
The combination of international fieldwork, interdisciplinary collaboration, and high-impact research makes it particularly valuable for academic and research careers.
7. Can international students apply?
Yes, applications are open to qualified candidates worldwide.
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