PhD position (f/m/x) in paleoecology of Antarctic lakes

We are one of the largest and oldest universities in Europe and one of the most important employers in our region. Our broad range of subjects, the dynamic development of our main research areas and our central location in Cologne make us attractive for students and researchers from around the world. We offer a wide range of career opportunities in science, technology, and administration. **PhD position (f/m/x) in** **paleoecology of Antarctic lakes** The position is funded by the DFG under the Priority Pro- gramme SPP 1158 Antarctic Research. Within the framework of the project, you will investigate the palaeoecological evo- lution of lakes in East Antarctica. The focus is on how micro- bial communities in Antarctic lakes have evolved during the Holocene in response to changes in the environment and climate. You will study sediment deposits from various lakes and reconstruct their environmental and ecosystem evolu- tion over time. A key focus of your work is the comprehensive analysis of lipid biomarkers and their interpretation within the context of the palaeoecology of the lakes. In addition, further parameters derived from micro- and macro-palaeontologi- cal, sedimentological and isotopic geochemical observations are recorded and incorporated into the interpretation. **YOUR TASKS** **»** The planning, implementation, and evaluation of labora- tory and analytical work on Antarctic sediment samples using GC-MS and HPLC-UV-Vis spectrophotometry, EA-IRMS, and microscopic techniques **»** The integration of findings from these geochemical, isotopic and sedimentological investigations to gain a better understanding of limnic systems with regard to the interaction between the environment and ecology **»** The presentation of results at national and international conferences and the publication of research findings in international specialist journals **»** Collaboration within an interdisciplinary and international research environment **YOUR PROFILE** **»** You hold a postgraduate degree (M.Sc. or equivalent) in a subject area relevant to the project, such as earth sciences, environmental sciences or a related discipline. **»** You have a sound background in at least one area relevant to the project and are keen to familiarise yourself with further methods and research questions. Experience in organic geochemistry, biomarker analysis (e.g. GC-MS, HPLC-MS), microscopy and sedimentology is particularly welcome. In addition, we expect: **»** Motivation to work in an interdisciplinary and international research environment **»** A willingness and interest in collaborating with researchers both within and outside the project and in establishing new scientific partnerships **»** Good communication and teamwork skills **»** Excellent written and spoken English **WE OFFER** **»** Working in an internationally well-established researc