Heidelberg University
5 days ago
PhD Position in Physical Geography, Geoarchaeology, and Environmental Archaeology at Heidelberg University Heidelberg University in Germany
Degree Level
PhD
Field of study
Geology
Funding
Paid Research Associate / PhD Student position at Pay Group 13 TV-L, 75% for 3 years. The project is funded under the bilateral WEAVE program by the German Research Foundation (DFG) and the Czech Science Foundation (GACR).
Deadline
Oct 2, 2026
Country
Germany
University
Heidelberg University

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About this position
Heidelberg University’s Department of Geography, Physical Geography Division is advertising a Research Associate / PhD Student (f/m/d) position focused on physical geography, geoarchaeology, geology/earth sciences, environmental science, geoecology, GIS, remote sensing, geomorphology, sedimentology, geochemistry, and archaeology.
The role is part of the project “Testing the Al-Hajar Refugium Hypothesis (TARGYT) – Karst depressions in the northern Oman Mountains as environmental and archeological archives”, funded through the bilateral WEAVE program by the German Research Foundation (DFG) and the Czech Science Foundation (GACR). The project studies the central Al-Hajar Mountains in Oman as a possible refuge for prehistoric cultures during dry climate phases by analyzing sediment-filled karst depressions as geo-bio-archives alongside prehistoric artifacts.
Planned work includes geomorphological mapping using remote sensing, field verification, geophysical prospection (ERT), sediment sampling, drilling, test pits, pedostratigraphic documentation, laboratory analyses (grain size, XRF, ICP-OES, C/N, soil physical parameters), multivariate statistical evaluation, support for luminescence dating, conference presentations, and publication in international journals.
Applicants should have an excellent master’s degree in a related field and strong interest in research at the Earth Sciences–Archaeology–Prehistory interface. Desired experience includes geoscientific or archaeological fieldwork, GIS (ArcGIS/QGIS), laboratory work, and organizing field campaigns. Very good English is required; basic German or willingness to learn is expected.
The position is 75% TV-L E13, limited to 3 years, with a desired start date of November 1, 2026. Application deadline: October 2, 2026.
To apply, submit a combined PDF with a motivation letter, CV, and thesis PDF/link by email. Questions can be directed to Dr. Max Engel at Heidelberg University.
Funding details
Paid Research Associate / PhD Student position at Pay Group 13 TV-L, 75% for 3 years. The project is funded under the bilateral WEAVE program by the German Research Foundation (DFG) and the Czech Science Foundation (GACR).
What's required
Excellent master's degree in Geography with a focus on Physical Geography, Geoarchaeology, Geology/Earth Sciences, Prehistory and Early History with a geoscientific component, Environmental Sciences, Geoecology, or another related discipline; strong interest in research at the intersection of Earth Sciences, Archaeology, and Prehistory; fieldwork experience in geoscientific and/or archaeological research projects; basic knowledge of GIS (ArcGIS and/or QGIS); very good written and spoken English; basic German language skills or willingness to acquire them for knowledge transfer; openness, creativity, independence, communication skills, and teamwork ability in an international and intercultural context. Ideally, experience with the methods listed in the task description, organizing geoscientific/archaeological fieldwork, and laboratory work.
How to apply
Prepare one combined PDF containing a motivation letter, CV (including publications, presentations, and outreach if available), and a PDF of or link to the thesis. Send the application by email to the Department of Physical Geography secretary. Direct questions to Dr. Max Engel.
More information can be found here
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