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Chair of Applied Geochemistry

Faculty of Environment and Natural Resources

Chair of Applied Geochemistry

Abkürzung der Fakultät für Umwelt und Natürliche Ressourcen "unr" in der Farbe sand auf grünem, kreisförmigen Hintergrund

The chair conducts research in applied geochemistry and environmental geochemistry to investigate the geochemical cycling of elements in soils, sediments, and surface waters using an interdisciplinary approach. Our research focuses on (bio)geochemical reactions involving iron, carbon, and sulfur and their impact on trace elements in environments affected by human activities and climate change. Furthermore, we aim to develop innovative solutions to these challenges by exploring novel remediation and engineering approaches.

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News

23.06.2026

Thomas published his first PhD paper!

In his first PhD paper Thomas comprehensively investigates the Tc–magnetite interaction.

Magnetite is one of the primary corrosion products of steel under anoxic conditions and therefore plays a crucial role in the retention of radionuclides relevant to final disposal. In particular, the interaction of magnetite nanoparticles with technetium is relevant to safety, as previous studies have already indicated that Tc can be incorporated into the magnetite structure. However, the underlying mechanisms and the specific conditions for this structural incorporation have not yet been fully understood.

By combining high-resolution X-ray absorption spectroscopy with computer-aided modeling, Thomas made it possible to identify the conditions under which structural incorporation of technetium occurs and to elucidate the mechanism of the associated charge balancing.

BIG CONGRATS THOMAS!

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22.06. – 10.07. From the Black Forest to the Lab

A Successful Start of the Aquatic and Environmental Analytics Module

The new Aquatic and Environmental Analytics module for MSc Earth Sciences students was launched with great success. Starting from the question of whether former mining activities affect the environment in the Kappler Valley, students investigated their own water and soil samples—from field sampling to laboratory analysis and interpretation of the results.

A big thank you goes to all students for their enthusiasm, curiosity, and active participation, which greatly contributed to the success of this first edition of the module.

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26.04.2026: Excursion

Kaiserstuhl: “Lava, Loess, and Wines”

Experiencing volcanic rocks, loess soils, and viticulture up close: BSc Geosciences students explored the Hauri quarry, carbonatites, and the Badberg spring in the Kaiserstuhl region. Particular highlights included insights into the influence of volcanoes and loess on wine provided by Simon Weiß, as well as the concluding visit to the vineyards with Dr. Mathis Vinnepand. A heartfelt thank you goes to Simon Spürgi, Simon Weiß, Dr. Mathis Vinnepand, and the Hauri company for their exciting support of the field trip.

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Curious? Feel free to get in touch!

Would you like to learn more about our research, submit your own ideas through a proposal, or actively participate in exciting projects?

Are you interested in contributing to our research and writing your bachelor’s or master’s thesis as part of one of our research projects?

We look forward to working with motivated students and researchers to better understand the biogeochemical processes of our environment—please feel free to contact us!

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