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September 1, 2026
Ends on August 31, 2030
Institute of Geological Sciences, University of Bern
Are you interested in reconstructing past glacier dynamics, climate change, and landscape evolution in the Alps? Join the SouthIce project at the University of Bern for one of two fully funded PhD positions in Quaternary geology, geochronology, and paleoclimate research. SouthIce aims to establish the first numerical chronology of Middle Pleistocene glaciations in the southern Alpine foreland by combining field geology, sedimentology, cutting-edge geochronology, and glacier modelling. The project focuses on the Ivrea and Verbano morainic amphitheaters in northern Italy and brings together an international team from the University of Bern, ETH Zurich, the University of Lausanne, and partner institutions in Italy, China, and Brazil.
As a PhD candidate in SouthIce, you will conduct fieldwork in the southern Alpine foreland, involving geomorphological mapping, stratigraphic logging, and sample collection. You will investigate glacial and glaciofluvial deposits using sedimentological and stratigraphic methods while helping to establish a numerical chronology through geochronological techniques such as cosmogenic nuclide burial dating, luminescence dating, and/or paleomagnetic analysis. You will process and interpret samples and datasets, collaborate closely with an international network of researchers, present your results at conferences, and publish in peer-reviewed journals. Depending on your profile and final assignment, your work may focus strongly on one of the two PhD tracks:
You hold a Master's degree in Earth Sciences, Geology, Geography, Environmental Sciences, or a related field. You are highly motivated, curious, and interested in Quaternary geology, glacial geomorphology, paleoclimate, and/or geochronology. You enjoy combining field-based research with laboratory and analytical work and are willing to work in an interdisciplinary and international research environment. You can work independently, think critically, collaborate in a team, and communicate effectively in English. Experience in sedimentology, stratigraphy, geomorphological mapping, geochronology, GIS, or quantitative data analysis is an advantage. For one of the two positions, prior interest or experience in luminescence dating, cosmogenic nuclides, or laboratory development work is especially welcome. We are committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion and particularly encourage applications from underrepresented groups.
The University of Bern not only offers exciting tasks but also an environment that actively promotes development, diversity, and equal opportunities. Discover what makes us stand out as an employer and how you can grow with us.
Apply online using the form below. Only applications matching the job profile will be considered.
Prof. Naki Akçar
Email: naki.akcar@unibe.ch
Sarah Antenen
Email: sarah.antenen@unibe.ch
Location : Bern
Country : Switzerland