Senior Researcher in Quaternary Geology and 3D Modelling

Are you passionate about Quaternary geology and ready to conduct impactful research? Use your expertise in Quaternary geology, geological modelling, glacial processes, geomorphology, and sedimentology to make a real difference by joining GEUS as our new Senior Researcher and help shape the future of near-surface geological modelling in Denmark and beyond. The position is at the Department of Near Surface Land and Marine Geology (SURFACE) in Aarhus, with a preferred start date of June 1st, 2025.

About the position The description of geology based on sparse observations requires a priori knowledge of geological processes and depositional environments. Near-surface geological models in Denmark achieve the highest precision when based on an understanding of the dynamics of glacial environments, stratigraphic relationships, and hydrology, combined with data from geophysical surveys and boreholes. The open and diverse Danish geological databases, along with Denmark’s extensive coastline, provide a unique opportunity in an international context to enhance the understanding of glacial depositional environments.

We are seeking a highly motivated Senior Researcher in Quaternary Geology to join our department. This position focuses on high-level research in geological interpretations and modelling, with direct application in areas like climate change, paleoclimate studies, coastal studies, raw material assessments, geotechnical evaluations, groundwater mapping, and environmental protection. The applicant will be working at the forefront of Quaternary research, combining borehole data, geophysical surveys and geomorphology with numerical modelling to enhance our understanding of glacial processes and the near-surface geology in Denmark.

A key part of the applicant’s role involves integrating knowledge about glacial processes, structures, and landforms with interpretations of geophysical and sedimentological data to improve the precision and detail of 3D geological models. The work will also include topics like assessing uncertainties in geological models and participating in evolving our current work on numerical simulations of lithological variations within the subsurface. Our department has a strong numerical tradition, and experience or expressed interests in combining geological insights in a numerical, quantitative methodology would thus be a plus.

As a Senior Researcher at GEUS you will take part in, develop and eventually be leading research initiatives and projects, collaborate with national authorities and international researchers, and contribute to the development of advanced geological mapping methodologies and 3D models. As a Geological Survey, we both conduct research and conduct research-based consultancy for both governmental agencies and private organisations related to, for instance, raw materials, groundwater extraction, groundwater protection, geotechnical applications, coastal risk studies etc. The projects are typically multidisciplinary and require close collaboration between different research profiles, consultants and technicians. As our new colleague you should be interested in going into a tight teamwork with colleagues inside as well as outside the house. Communication and involvement with authorities and external stakeholders is typically a large part of our projects, and the combination of research and consultancy often lead us to applied research, which is of high importance for the society and targets many of the current developing crisis.

Who are you? You are an experienced geologist with a PhD in Quaternary Geology, Sedimentology, Earth Sciences, or a related field and a strong research portfolio in glacial processes, sedimentology, and combining your geological understanding with data in the creation of models. You have a proven ability to create deep knowledge from field investigations and data, laboratory analyses, GIS, and maybe even numerical modelling.

You have experience in geophysical data interpretation, stratigraphy, and hydrogeology, and an ability to collaborate across disciplines. You have knowledge about the Quaternary geology of Denmark or another country with a comparable glacial history. You thrive in both research and applied science settings and have a publication record demonstrating your expertise. You have strong communication skills and a strategic mindset, as you in your role as Senior Research will be guiding research initiatives and engaging with stakeholders in science, government, and industry.

Meet your new colleagues At GEUS, you will join the Department of Near Surface Land and Marine Geology where we conduct research within a wide range of topics related to resources, process, and geology of the upper 300 meters of the subsurface on- and offshore. Based in new offices at the University Campus in Aarhus, the department consists of 35 enthusiastic colleagues working closely together as teams, in an interdisciplinary approach, blending field data, laboratory research, and advanced modelling to develop solutions that address both scientific questions and societal challenges.

As part of our team, you will work alongside experts committed to excellence, knowledge-sharing, and impactful research. We collaborate closely with governmental agencies, universities, and international research networks, providing you with an expansive platform for advancing your research and making a meaningful contribution.

A working environment with a focus on professional development and well-being There are many good reasons why you should choose a working life at GEUS.

We are a diverse staff of about 300 committed employees. Trust and flexibility are keywords. The working environment is lively, informal, and international. Our tasks are versatile and there are plenty of opportunities for you to influence the development of your task portfolio.

We prioritise professional development, among other things by offering access to courses and other relevant activities. Socialising is also very important at GEUS, and we have a rich social life with a staff club, an art association and more.

At GEUS, we prioritise the well-being of every single employee. We prioritise that the Heads of Departments are close to the employees, and we have flexible working hours that allow you to organise your life so that there is time for what matters to you. If you need to work from home occasionally, that is also possible.

As an employee, you will enjoy several benefits, including access to an on-site physiotherapist, and free parking. Furthermore, our staff association is very active in organizing social events and activities.

Salary and terms of employment Salary and terms of employment are in accordance with the relevant trade union agreement.

The appointment area is the Ministry of Climate, Energy and Utilities and its institutions.

The Ministry of Climate, Energy and Utilities considers diversity to be an asset and encourages anyone regardless of gender, age, religion or ethnicity to seek the position.

Further information If you would like additional information, please contact the contact Head of Department Torben Bach on tel. +45 6026 1883, e-mail: [email protected] or Senior Researcher Anne-Sophie Høyer Christensen on tel. +45 5128 2839, e-mail: [email protected].

If you are an international applicant, you can read more about living and working in Denmark on GEUS’ website.

Are you interested? If you are interested in the position, we would like to hear from you. The application must include a CV incl. your ORCID, a list of publications with a separate indication of articles registered in ISI Web of Science and any copies of individual publications of particular relevance to the position. Please enclose Master’s and PhD diplomas in either Danish or English as well as other material documenting qualifications at senior level.

Please submit the application via GEUS’ website at the latest on Monday 24 March 2025 (Danish time).

Applications or other material received after the deadline will not be considered.

The employment procedure A professional assessment committee consisting of one internal and two external assessors at minimum senior researcher level will carry out an individual assessment of all applicants’ professional qualifications, and the applicants will be assessed as qualified or unqualified for the position. Afterwards, an internal employment committee will decide which of the professionally qualified candidates will be invited for a job interview. This procedure is in accordance with the “Order on employment and assessment of scientific staff at the Geological Survey of Denmark and Greenland § 4 and 7”.