3.5 year PhD position

The project is Part of the DFG funded RING research group. The focus of this part is in seismology, pushing the domain of applications of 6 DoF observations to seismic interferometry, and monitoring of stress changes inside the Earth.

The Department of Earth and Environmental Sciences and the Geophysical Observatory of the Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München are leading geophysical research institutions in Europe as well as worldwide. We are seeking a

PhD candidate (m/w/d)

At Munich and at the Geophysical Observatory Fürstenfeldbruck.

 The Geophysics Section at LMU invites applications for a 3.5-year PhD position within the RING research project funded by the German Research Foundation. The position investigates ground motion observations and the analysis and simulation of seismic wavefields, including new measurements of rotational motion (so-called six-degree-of-freedom 6-DoF data). The project contributes to improving our understanding of Earth processes and has applications in environmental monitoring and hazard assessment. This project is suitable for students who want to combine data analysis, physics, and programming to better understand how the Earth moves.

The position is part of the RING research unit that aims at pushing the limits of ring laser instruments for applications in Earth System science such as geodesy and geophysics. The research unit consists of 14 PhD positions at several German institutions in physics, geophysics and geology with a strong, interdisciplinary joint training programme.

Joint observations of rotational and translational ground motions have tremendous potential to complement classic seismic recordings in particular in challenging terrain (e.g., planets, volcanoes, oceans, cities). Building on high-sensitivity ring laser observations, we will push 6-DoF observations into the realm of seismic interferometry and explore the substantially elevated sensitivity of wavefield gradients to local structure and noise source distributions. The focus will be on the impact of imaging and monitoring the near-surface structure for environmental and tectonic effects (e.g., hydrological changes, stress changes).

Your tasks:

  • Learn how to analyze rotational and translational seismic data (6-DoF observations)
  • Apply seismic interferometry methods to learn about noise sources and extend to 6-DoF data.
  • Improve our understanding of how seismic signals change over time due to environmental effects
  • Investigate if 6-DoF can be used to monitor subsurface stress changes
  • Delve into the array of arrays idea using multiple 6-DoF stations for seismology and structural applications
  • Present results at international conferences, publish in international journals

 Your Qualifications:

  • You have a MSc in Physics or an Earth science related topic.
  • You are able to work independently, self-motivated and within a team.
  • Attention to detail and high level of critical thinking.
  • Experience with seismological field work is highly appreciated.
  • Experience in Python programming is an advantage.
  • Proficiency in English language is essential (speaking and writing)

We offer:

LMU offers an interdisciplinary environment with excellent opportunities for further training and development.

  • You will have access to the largest pool of portable rotation sensors as well as the multi-component ROMY ring laser.
  • You will receive structured training and close supervision within a collaborative and supportive, interdisciplinary research environment.
  • Fixed term contract for 3.5 years, salary according to DFG regulations (75% German TVL-E 13).
  • The possibility of attending international conferences and workshops.
  • Publishing in high-level international journals.
  • The PhD student will be hosted in the Seismology Group under Prof. Heiner Igel and will be co-supervised by Dr. Yara Rossi.
  • We explicitly encourage applications from candidates who may not meet all listed qualifications but are highly motivated to learn.
  • LMU Munich is interested in increasing the number of female employees and encourages women to apply. Persons with disabilities are given preference if they are otherwise essentially equally suitable.

Flexible, family friendly working time models (e. g. remote work is possible) in the center of the attractive and vibrant city of Munich close to the Alps. The PhD is embedded in a large research group with in total 14 PhD positions at several German institutions in physics, geophysics, and geodesy with a strong joint training programme.

Contact and application:

Complete applications must include a motivation letter (max1 page), CV, and names and contact information of two referees. Deadline for applications is 15.06.2026. Later applications may be considered until the position is filled. Please send your application to: Prof. Dr. Heiner Igel, Department of Earth and Environmental Sciences, LMU Munich, Theresienstrasse 41, 80333 Munich, Germany, e-mail: heiner.igel@lmu.de