Postdoc - Mineralogy of Deep Planetary Interiors via High-Pressure Experimentation

We are currently accepting applications for the above mentioned position. This is a unique opportunity for junior researchers with a recent PhD degree in Physics or related fields to join one of DIPC's high-profile research teams.

The successful candidate will investigate the structure, chemistry, and physical properties of Earth and planetary materials under extreme pressure and temperature conditions using state-of-the-art high-pressure experimental techniques, such as laser-heated diamond anvil cells in combination with in situ X-Ray diffraction and spectroscopic techniques.

The project will focus on understanding the behavior and transformation of minerals and complex inorganic materials at pressures relevant for the mantles of Earth and other planetary bodies. Emphasis will be placed on high-pressure phase transitions, crystal chemistry, and the correlations between structure, electronic state, and physical properties.

The experiments will be conducted at large-scale synchrotron radiation facilities (ESRF, DESY, APS) as well as using in house equipment. The selected candidate is expected to participate in the development of an experimental platform for high-pressure science at DIPC. Complementary computational approaches, including ab initio calculations, may also be used to interpret experimental observations and investigate structures and properties at conditions inaccessible to experiments.

• A strong interest in mineralogy, structure and evolution of planetary interiors
• Holding a PhD in Earth Sciences, Solid state chemistry, Material Science or a closely related discipline is a requirement
• Knowledge of diamond anvil cell techniques and X-Ray diffraction.
• Experience in synchrotron X-ray techniques and building high-pressure instrumentation is an asset.
• Ability to design, conduct and interpret experiments.
• Excellent communication skills in English, both written and oral.
• Willingness to work in an international research environment and to travel to large scale facilities for experiments.

• Estimated annual gross salary: Salary is commensurate with qualifications and consistent with our pay scales
• Target start date: 2026/11/01

We provide a highly stimulating research environment, and unique professional career development opportunities.

We offer and promote a diverse and inclusive environment and welcomes applicants regardless of age, disability, gender, nationality, ethnicity, religion, sexual orientation or gender identity.

The team of the Project is lead by Dr. habil. Anna Pakhomova, in collaboration with groups from University of Bayreuth and European Synchrotron Radiation Facility.

Interested candidates should submit an updated CV and a brief statement of interest to the following application email below.

Reference letters are welcome but not indispensable.

The reference of the specific opening to which the candidate is applying should be stated in the subject line, and the application must be received before the application deadline.

Although candidates are welcome to contact the project supervisors to know further details about the proposed research activity, please be aware that the application will be evaluated only if it is submitted directly to the email address listed below as application email.

• Reference: 2026/42
• Application deadline: 2026/09/23
• Application email: [email protected]

Applications received by the deadline will be evaluated by a Committee designed by the DIPC board on the basis of the following criteria:

• CV of the candidate (40%)
• Adequacy of the candidate's scientific background to the project (40%)
• Reference letters (10%)
• Other: Diversity in gender, race, nationality, etc. (10%)

Evaluation results will be communicated to the candidates soon after. Positions will only be filled if qualified candidates are found.

The DIPC may revoke its decision if the candidate fails to join by the appointed time, in which case the position will be awarded to the candidate with the next highest score, provided it is above 50 (out of 100).

However, the selected candidate may keep the position if, in the opinion of the Selection Committee, the candidate duly justifies the reasons why he or she cannot join before the specified deadline, and as long as the project allows it.