Student Assistant (f_m_x) in 3D gravity field modelling [english] in Potsdam bei Deutsches GeoForschungsZentrum GFZ

Reference Number 8977

Gravity field data collected on the Earth’s surface or by satellites and integrated into global gravitational models, reflect the mass distribution within the Earth. Thus, gravity information provides valuable insights into the 3D subsurface density variations when used together with, for example, geological and seismic observations. In many cases, geophysicists use Bouguer gravity anomalies to examine the deeper layers of the Earth’s interior. For the corresponding Bouguer and terrain corrections, the gravitational attraction of rocks between the measurement point and sea level is approximated and subtracted, traditionally by using a constant average density value. In the frame of the DFG funded project “GRAV4GEO” (GRAVitational field modelling of Earth’s topography for GEOdetic and GEOphysical applications), a very-high-resolution near-Earth surface global gravitational field model is currently developed in GFZ Section 1.2 Global Geomonitoring and Gravity Field, innovatively computed based on a laterally varying density model and corresponding high-resolution refined elevation information. This model will allow for an advanced description of the Earth’s shape, i.e. the geoid. More relevant for GFZ Section 4.5, this model and derived gravitational field functionals will potentially improve the development of subsurface 3D density models that reach down to the base of the lithosphere. Major improvements are expected especially for remote, high-topography regions for which the very rare terrestrial gravity measurements have to be complemented by satellite-derived observations (such as the Andes). Hence, one key question of “GRAV4GEO” is: How significant is the impact of using the newly developed global near surface/topographic gravitational field models for forward gravity modelling aimed at reproducing gravity anomalies by data-integrative, subsurface 3D density models?

If you are a highly-motivated student, interested in shedding light into the deep and inaccessible parts of the Earth by using cutting-edge methodologies, then we would be happy about your application!

Your responsibilities:

• Working with the potential field modelling software “IGMAS+”
• Testing existing lithospheric-scale 3D density models with respect to the impacts of the new very-high-resolution near-Earth surface global gravitational field model

Your qualifications:

• BSc or ongoing studies in Physics, Geodesy, Geophysics, Geotechnology, Geoinformatics, Geosciences or equivalent
• Basic skills in programming is a plus

What we offer:

• Ambitious and varied tasks in a dynamic and international research environment
• State-of-the-art equipment
• Public service benefits
• Extensive training opportunities
• Flexible working hours and conditions
• Support with finding a good work-life balance offered by benefit@work
• Working at the Albert Einstein science park on the Telegrafenberg in Potsdam
• Work place within walking distance of Potsdam main train station, or just a short ride on the shuttle bus