Research Assistant (f/m/x) - on Modelling Earth Surface Processes Wiss2608-09 | Chair Group of Geomorphology and Geochronology | Institute of Geography

Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Sciences
Research Assistant (f/m/x) - on Modelling Earth Surface Processes
Chair Group of Geomorphology and Geochronology | Institute of Geography

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.

The Chair Group of Geomorphology & Geochronology invites applications for an exceptional research position focusing on landscape evolution modeling. Our group specializes in understanding how physical, biological, and anthropogenic processes shape Earth‘s surface, with particular expertise in luminescence-based dating and rating methods.

YOUR TASKS

• We are seeking a talented scientist with deep expertise in landscape evolution and/or soil-landscape evolution modeling across multiple spatial and temporal scales. This unique position offers the opportunity to leverage extensive field, laboratory, and geochronological datasets to develop cutting-edge numerical modeling tools while leading our Geomorphic Software Laboratory.
• Based in the Chair Group for Geomorphology & Geochronology, this position offers strong collaborative opportunities across the Department of Geosciences (including the Cosmogenic Nuclides Group) and the Institute of Geography (GIS and Remote Sensing Group), with access to state-of-the-art analytical facilities and field equipment.

YOUR PROFILE

• PhD in Geosciences, Geomorphology, or closely related discipline
• Demonstrated experience with numerical modeling of Earth surface processes and interactions
• Strong programming skills (preferably R, but experience with Python, MATLAB, or similar languages valued)
• Proven research record with peer-reviewed publications
• Excellent English communication skills (oral and written)
• Commitment to teaching diverse, international student populations
• Willingness to achieve German language proficiency within 2 years

WE OFFER

• The opportunity to obtain the habilitation degree in an exciting research environment
• A diverse working environment with equal opportunities
• Support in balancing work and family life
• Extensive advanced training opportunities
• Occupational health management offers
• Flexible working time models

The University of Cologne promotes equal opportunities and diversity. Women will be considered preferentially in accordance with the Equal Opportunities Act of North Rhine-Westphalia (Landesgleichstellungsgesetz – LGG NRW). We also expressly welcome applications from all suitable candidates regardless of their gender, nationality, ethnic and social origin, religion, disability, age, sexual orientation and identity.

The position is available from 1 October 2026 on a full-time basis (39,83 hours per week). It is limited for three years. After successful evaluation and in conjunction with the successful development of a geomorphological software laboratory, the position can be transferred into a permanent position. If the applicant meets the relevant wage requirements and personal qualifications, the salary is based on remuneration group 13 TV-L of the pay scale for the German public sector.
Please apply online with proof of the required qualifications (including a motivation letter describing background, training, research interests, and motivation for this position; your CV, certificates and the contact information of two referees) without a photo under: https://jobportal.uni-koeln.de. The reference number is Wiss2608-09. The application deadline is 15 September 2026.
For further inquiries, please contact Professor Tony Reimann ([email protected]) and take a look at our FAQs.