Please pass along the following information for a PhD position to interested students
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ALFRED WEGENER INSTITUTE FOR POLAR AND MARINE RESEARCH (AWI)
Member of the Hermann von Helmholtz-Association of German Research Centers
Columbusstrasse, 27568 Bremerhaven, Germany
(http://www.awi-bremerhaven.de)

Isotopic Studies on greenhouse gases in ice core bubble enclosures represent the key to the 
understanding of changes in biogeochemical cycles in the past. Methane concentrations show rapid 
changes during the last ice age, which may be attributed either to changes in terrestrial sources or to a 
methane release from marine gas hydrates. The goal of the German Research Foundation (DFG) project 
MEPHISTO is to answer this important question using isotopic measurements on CH4 in polar ice cores.

Applications for a PhD-student (reference number 31/GEO) in the DFG project MEPHISTO (subject to 
grant approval) are currently invited:
Applicants should hold a MS (Diploma) in physics, chemistry, geochemistry or geoecology. Salary is paid 
according to the German civil service remuneration system BAT IIa/2, the position is limited to three years 
starting as early as August 2005.
The position will perform carbon and hydrogen isotopic studies of CH4 in bubble enclosures in polar ice 
cores and based on these measurements will quantify changes in the methane cycle during the last glacial 
cycle. Based on previously established methods for  13CH4 analyses, a pyrolysis method for hydrogen 
isotopic measurements has to be established. Experience in gas chromatography and/or mass 
spectrometry on air samples is therefore desired.
Interpretation of the data takes place in an interdiscplinary environment within the working group at AWI 
and in cooperation with scientist within the European Project for Ice Coring in Antarctica (EPICA). For the 
analytical work a state-of-the-art mass spectrometry and a fully equipped cold lab as well as technical 
support are at the student's disposal. 
Active participation in expeditions to polar regions is expected. AWI is an equal opportunity employer. 
Closing date will be 30th of July, 2005, however applications will be accepted until the position is filled. 
For further information concerning the positions, please contact Dr. Hubertus Fischer (email: 
[log in to unmask]). 
Qualified applicants should send applications by email (including CV, a short summary of previous 
scientific work, copies of certificates etc.) stating the reference number to [log in to unmask]





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Jochen Schmitt
Alfred Wegener Institute for Polar and Marine Research
Am Alten Hafen 26
D-27568 Bremerhaven
Germany
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Building D, room: 3410
phone: 0049-(0)471-4831-1345
fax:      0049-(0)471-4831-1149
email: [log in to unmask]