Please pass along the following information for a PhD position to interested students contact email address: [log in to unmask] ......don't hit the reply button... 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] ------------------------------------------------------------------------- Jochen Schmitt Alfred Wegener Institute for Polar and Marine Research Am Alten Hafen 26 D-27568 Bremerhaven Germany ------------------------------------------------------------------------- Building D, room: 3410 phone: 0049-(0)471-4831-1345 fax: 0049-(0)471-4831-1149 email: [log in to unmask]