A fully funded PhD position is available at Forschungszentrum Jülich, Germany, focusing on the impacts of climate stress on the chemistry of forest-derived organic aerosols. The research is part of the Helmholtz Investigator Group “ClimStress - Climate stress impacts on forest emissions and aerosol pollution,” led by Jun.-Prof. Dr. Eva Pfannerstill at the Institute for Climate and Energy Systems (ICE-3). The project aims to understand how changing environmental conditions influence forest volatile organic compound (VOC) emissions and secondary organic aerosol (SOA) formation, which are critical for atmospheric chemistry, climate, and air quality.

The successful candidate will use state-of-the-art methods to conduct gas- and aerosol-phase measurements, including the operation of a chemical ionization time-of-flight mass spectrometer. The research involves controlled chamber experiments in the SAPHIR atmospheric oxidation chamber and airborne aerosol measurements onboard a Zeppelin airship. Advanced data analysis, including programming in Python, will be used to interpret large multidimensional datasets. The candidate will present results at international conferences and publish in peer-reviewed journals.

Applicants should have a Master’s degree in chemistry, physics, meteorology, atmospheric sciences, environmental sciences, or related fields, with strong experimental skills and a keen interest in atmospheric research. Experience in mass spectrometry, aerosol measurements, and programming is advantageous. Excellent English communication skills and the ability to work in an international, interdisciplinary team are essential.

The position is fully funded for three years, classified under pay group 13 (67.5%) of the TVöD-Bund, with additional benefits such as a Christmas bonus, 30 days annual leave, flexible working arrangements, and access to advanced research infrastructure. The HITEC graduate school offers further scientific and professional training, and international research stays are possible. Support for international employees and a commitment to diversity and equal opportunities are provided.

Applications are accepted online via the Forschungszentrum Jülich job portal. The position will remain open until filled, so early application is encouraged. For more information, visit the official job posting and related links.