Your activities include research on methods for developing early-warning systems for groundwater contamination in karst areas. The main goal is to achieve a better understanding of the transport processes governing the spatial and temporal dynamics of fecal bacteria and proxies for microbial contamination in karst aquifer systems, as a basis for the better management and protection of these valuable but vulnerable freshwater resources.
Focus will be on the application of in-situ flow cytometry which allows fast analyses of the total and intact cell count, to distinguish between viable and dead cells and cells with a low and high nucleic acid content. Proxies for microbial contamination are selected hydrochemical parameters and the particle size distribution.
The possibility of pursuing a doctorate is given. In addition to your research work, you will also contribute to teaching and support Bachelor and Master students.

Requirements:

Completed university degree (MSc) in the field of hydrogeology or equivalent (e.g. geoecology, engineering biology, environmental sciences, water sciences).

Desirable:

• good background in hydrogeology with experiences in geological field work, hydrochemical and microbiological analytics
• good analytical and problem-solving skills, good communications skills and the ability to work independently as part of a team
• ability to collaborate with partners from other institutions and to do hydrogeological field work in other countries
• very good written and spoken English
• valid driver’s license with acceptable driving history

Your application should include the following documents as one PDF: letter of motivation, CV with degree certificates, at least 2 references.