Postdoctoral Researcher in Extreme Precipitation Events, Erosional Thresholds and Landscape Evolution Modelling (f_m_x) Reference Number 7322

Understanding erosion processes in high relief environments is hampered by the timescale difference between long-term fluvial incision (0.1-10 Myr) and short, intense rainfall events that trigger erosive events. In order to quantify the effect of rainfall variability on fluvial incision, it is necessary to determine erosional thresholds. To do so, a realistic hydrology model must be coupled with a stochastic-threshold model of incision. These parameters are embedded within the framework of the FastScape landscape evolution model developed by J. Braun and E. Deal (now at ETH, Zurich) and currently used by members of Section 4.7.

We are looking to hire a postdoctoral research scientist to quantify the impact of extreme precipitation events on long-term river incision in mountainous landscapes by using FastScape. Specific targets include, but are not limited to, tropical volcanic islands (particularly the Reunion hotspot), active orogens (such as the Colombian Andes), and “dead” orogens. The successful candidate can also propose other settings depending on his/her interests. The advertised position does not include a specific budget for field work. However, data collection in the field (like bedload size measurement) is possible for calibrating the model, provided the candidate obtains external fundings. The postdoctoral researcher should also investigate the future evolution of river incision by testing various scenarios of extreme precipitation events, such as cyclone frequency/intensity as predicted by IPCC reports.

The main adviser will be Dr. Loraine Gourbet (working group leader at GFZ). The postdoctoral researcher will be expected to actively collaborate with other researchers, within and outside of the Earth Surface Process Modelling section, including Jean Braun (section leader), Hui Tang, Luca Malatesta and Richard Ott at GFZ, and Kimberly Huppert (now at the City College of New York). The researcher should also be eager to establish new international collaborations that will be beneficial for his/her career and for the GFZ.

Your responsibilities:

• Quantify erosional thresholds in bedrock river channels in volcanic and orogenic settings using a stochastic-threshold landscape evolution model
• Investigate the future evolution of steep landscapes in relation to rainfall changes due to the ongoing climate change
• Publish in international peer-reviewed journals and present your results at international conferences
• Contribute to writing proposals for external funding
• Actively collaborate with members of the section and, ideally, other sections at the GFZ

Your qualifications:

• PhD in Earth Sciences (doctoral candidates can apply provided PhD diploma is obtained before 01.09.2023)
• MSc in Earth sciences or hydrology (or equivalent)
• Demonstrated experience in scientific programming (preferably Python or Matlab)
• Demonstrated experience with landscape evolution models (knowing FastScape is a plus but it is not a must-have)
• Demonstrated excellence in publication (submitted articles will be considered)
• Demonstrated excellent communication skills and capacity for international teamwork
• Proficiency in spoken and written English

What we offer:

• Ambitious and varied tasks in a dynamic and international research environment
• State-of-the-art equipment
• Public service benefits
• Extensive training opportunities
• Professional career advice offered by our in-house Career-Centre
• Flexible working hours and conditions
• Support with finding a good work-life balance offered by benefit@work
• Institute day-care centre on site
• Working at the Albert Einstein science park on the Telegrafenberg in Potsdam
• Work place within walking distance of Potsdam main train station, or just a short ride on the shuttle bus