PhD Position in Physics of the Earth at Karlsruhe Institute of Technology (KIT), Germany

Karlsruhe Institute of Technology (KIT) invites applications for a PhD Position in Physics of the Earth (f/m/d) within the Geophysical Institute (GPI). This funded research position is part of the German Research Foundation (DFG) funded Research Unit ‘RING: Rotational Motions in Physics, Geophysics, and Geodesy’, focusing on pushing the limits of ring laser instruments for Earth system science.

Overview

Research Area & Background

The PhD project is titled ‘Environmental effects on long-period rotational measurements’ and is embedded within working groups at the Black Forest Observatory (BFO) and the Geophysical Institute (GPI) at KIT. The research focuses on developing deterministic, physics-based, quantitative models to compute crustal deformation induced by atmospheric pressure loading, addressing background disturbances that limit high-precision instruments such as ring lasers, gravitational-wave observatories, and Earth-orientation instruments.

PhD Position Description & Responsibilities

As the successful doctoral researcher, your key tasks will include:

• Deploying and operating a large-N array of autonomous barometers around the Black Forest Observatory (BFO).
• Deriving parametric descriptions of time-varying lateral air-pressure gradients by integrating barometer data with BFO’s high-precision deformation sensors.
• Developing quantitative physical models to understand how atmospheric loading couples with the deformation of the Earth’s crust.
• Establishing a signal-correction methodology to mitigate local background disturbances in rotational measurements.
• Collaborating with 15 fellow early-career researchers across the DFG Research Unit RING.
• Presenting scientific results at international conferences and publishing findings in peer-reviewed journals.
• Supporting teaching activities by assisting in lectures and field training courses within Bachelor and Master geophysics programs.

Eligibility and Qualifications

Applicants must meet the following criteria:

• A Master’s degree in Geophysics, Physics, or a closely related discipline.
• Proficiency in computer-based data analysis (especially time series analysis) and programming (preferably in Python).
• Willingness to carry out field work and work with sensitive geophysical measurement equipment.
• A valid driver’s license.
• Strong command of the English language (both written and spoken); basic knowledge of German is advantageous.
• Desirable qualifications: Experience in seismology, atmospheric dynamics, elasticity theory, or microcontroller (MCU) programming.

What We Offer

• Societal Impact: Engaging research in an internationally leading scientific environment.
• Work-Life Balance: Flexible working hours, remote-work options, and 30 days of annual paid leave.
• Professional Growth: Tailored onboarding, continuing education programs, and close academic supervision.
• Additional Benefits: Corporate pension plan (VBL), subsidy for public transportation (JobTicket BW), and health initiatives via the ‘Fit at KIT’ program.

How to Apply

Interested candidates must submit their application documents online via the official KIT application portal. Your application packet should include:

• A one-page cover letter outlining your motivation and relevant research interests.
• Curriculum Vitae (CV).
• Copies of degree certificates and official academic transcripts of records.
• Contact details of two academic referees willing to provide letters of recommendation.
• A statement outlining project-related skills and a list of publications (if applicable).

For technical inquiries, please contact Dr. Thomas Forbriger at thomas.forbriger@kit.edu.

Last Date for Apply

Applications are accepted until November 30, 2026.

Apply Link