PhD Position in Hydrogeophysics: Subsurface Stormflow Dynamics and Geophysical Imaging at Forschungszentrum Jülich Forschungszentrum Jülich in Germany

This PhD position at IBG-3, Forschungszentrum Jülich, is part of the DFG Research Unit 'Fast and Invisible: Conquering Subsurface Stormflow through an Interdisciplinary Multi-Site Approach.' The project addresses the mechanisms controlling subsurface stormflow (SSF), a major challenge in hydrology and environmental geophysics. The doctoral researcher will advance process-based understanding of SSF by integrating state-of-the-art geophysical methods, controlled field experiments, and numerical modeling.

Field campaigns will be conducted at four trenched hillslope research sites in Germany and Austria, enabling systematic investigation of SSF dynamics under controlled yet realistic conditions. The research will focus on analyzing SSF patterns across all sites using an integrated geophysical and modeling approach. High-resolution subsurface characterization will employ electromagnetic induction (EMI), electrical resistivity tomography (ERT), and ground penetrating radar (GPR), complemented by soil sensors and borehole data. Special emphasis is placed on combining borehole and surface GPR, as well as small-scale EMI measurements in experimental settings.

In addition to fieldwork, the PhD candidate will develop novel inversion algorithms for EMI and GPR based on full-waveform inversion techniques, enabling quantitative, high-resolution, time-lapse monitoring of soil properties. These methods will be implemented using high-performance parallel computing. The position offers extensive experience in field experiments, data analysis, numerical modeling, and scientific programming, contributing to fundamental advances in subsurface flow processes.

Main responsibilities include developing and applying high-resolution time-lapse GPR and EMI imaging methods, designing and implementing novel inversion algorithms, identifying links between hydrogeophysical parameters and subsurface flow, and improving small-scale process understanding to inform larger scale hydrological models. The project connects novel processing and inversion techniques to experimental data from different regions and links findings to critical zone processes.

Applicants must have a Master’s degree in geophysics, physics, geoscience, computational geoscience, or related natural sciences with at least a 'good' grade. Experience in programming (MATLAB, Python, C/C++), advanced numerical methods, and geophysical fieldwork (preferably GPR and EMI) is required. Strong English writing skills (B2 CEFR or higher), good communication and organizational skills, a driver’s license (or willingness to obtain), and physical work capability are essential.

The position is funded for 3 years, starting September 2026, with pay at 75% of pay group 13 TVöD-Bund, including a Christmas bonus and 30 days annual leave. PhD students are encouraged to attend international conferences and may undertake a three-month research stay abroad. The working environment is interdisciplinary, diverse, and inclusive, with targeted services for international employees and structured continuing education via JuDocS. Further information is available on the IBG-3 website and through Prof. Dr. Anja Klotzsche.

Applications should be submitted online via the provided link. Prepare your CV, cover letter, and supporting documents, including proof of English proficiency and relevant experience. Contact Prof. Dr. Anja Klotzsche for further information if needed. Ensure all application materials are submitted before the deadline.