Research assistant (praedoc) (f/m/d)

As part of our DFG-funded RISE project (Resilient Innovation for Sustainable Karst Water Management under Environmental Stress), you will conduct research on methods for developing early-warning systems for groundwater contamination in karst regions. The main goal is to achieve a better understanding of the transport processes governing the spatial and temporal dynamics of fecal bacteria and proxies for microbial contamination in karst aquifer systems, as a basis for the better management and protection of these valuable but vulnerable freshwater resources.
Focus will be on the application of in-situ flow cytometry which allows fast analyses of the total and intact cell count, to distinguish between viable and dead cells and cells with a low and high nucleic acid content. Proxies for microbial contamination are selected hydrochemical parameters and the particle size distribution.
The third-party funded research project provides the possibility of pursuing a doctorate.

Requirements:
Completed University degree (MSc) in the field of hydrogeology or equivalent (e.g. geoecology, engineering biology, environmental sciences, water sciences).

Desirable:

• good background in hydrogeology with experiences in geological field work, hydrochemical and microbiological analytics
• good analytical and problem-solving skills, good communications skills and the ability to work independently as part of a team
• ability to collaborate with partners from other institutions and to do hydrogeological field work in other countries
• very good written and spoken English (B2/C1)
• valid driver’s license with acceptable driving history

For further information, please contact Prof. Dr. Nadine Goeppert (nadine.goeppert@fu-berlin.de / 030 838 61843).

Applications should be sent by e-mail, together with significant documents (letter of motivation, CV with degree certificates, at least 2 references), indicating the reference code, no later than August 3rd, 2026 in PDF format (preferably as one document) to Prof. Dr. Nadine Goeppert: nadine.goeppert@fu-berlin.de or postal to

Freie Universität Berlin
Fachbereich Geowissenschaften
Institut für Geologische Wissenschaften
Hydrogeologie
Prof. Dr. Nadine Goeppert
Malteserstr. 74-100
Haus B, 12249 Berlin (Lankwitz)

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Freie Universität Berlin is an equal opportunity employer.