PhD Position in Environmental Radiochemistry and Plutonium Chemistry – Freie Universität Berlin

The Huittinen group at Freie Universität Berlin is offering a PhD position in environmental radiochemistry, focusing on plutonium chemistry in the context of spent nuclear fuel disposal safety. The research is part of the TRANSFER project (Training and Research Academy for Nuclear Safety and Future Expertise on Geological Repository Systems), a large joint initiative funded by the Federal Ministry for Research, Technology and Space (BMFTR) and the Federal Company for Radioactive Waste Disposal (BGE). The project brings together five Helmholtz Centres and five universities, providing a structured qualification program with seminars, summer and winter schools, conference participation, and research stays at partner institutions. The doctoral research will investigate the behavior of plutonium (Pu) in carbonate-rich environments, with a focus on its adsorption, incorporation, and redox chemistry in deep geological repositories for high-level radioactive waste. The project aims to understand the complex interactions of Pu(III) and Pu(IV) with carbonate minerals such as siderite (FeCO3) and calcite (CaCO3) under reducing conditions. Advanced spectroscopic techniques (UV-vis, HERFD-XANES, EXAFS, Raman, Mössbauer, EPR) and microscopic methods (TEM, SEM/EDX) will be used to study redox processes governing Pu mobility and retention in clay-based nuclear waste repositories. The outcomes will contribute to the safety assessment of nuclear waste disposal systems and enhance understanding of actinide behavior in the environment. Applicants should have a completed M.Sc. or Diploma in chemistry, geochemistry, or a related field. Desirable qualifications include a strong background in radiochemistry, geochemistry, or mineralogy, willingness to handle radioactive materials, and experience in spectroscopy, diffraction, and materials characterization. Excellent English communication skills and the ability to work independently and collaboratively are required. The position is a 75% part-time contract for 3 years (salary grade 13 TV-L FU), subject to funding approval. The program offers interdisciplinary training and opportunities for research stays at partner institutions. To apply, send a one-page motivation letter, CV, and degree certificates as a single PDF, indicating the reference code, to Prof. Dr. Nina Huittinen at [email protected] by December 22, 2025. For more information, visit the official job posting or contact the supervisor directly.