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01.09.2026
31.08.2030
Institute of Geological Sciences, University of Bern
Are you passionate about 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 integrating field geology, sedimentology, state-of-the-art geochronology, and glacier modelling. The project focuses on the Ivrea and Verbano morainic amphitheaters in northern Italy, forming a collaborative 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 comprehensive fieldwork in the southern Alpine foreland, including geomorphological mapping, stratigraphic logging, and sample collection. You will analyze glacial and glaciofluvial deposits using sedimentological and stratigraphic methods and contribute to establishing a numerical chronology with 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 findings at conferences, and publish in peer-reviewed journals. Depending on your expertise and final assignment, your focus may lean towards one of the two PhD tracks:
You hold a Master's degree in Earth Sciences, Geology, Geography, Environmental Sciences, or a related field. Your motivation, curiosity, and interest in Quaternary geology, glacial geomorphology, paleoclimate, and/or geochronology will set you apart. You are keen to combine field-based research with laboratory work and thrive in an interdisciplinary and international research environment. Along with the ability to work independently, you are a critical thinker who enjoys collaborating in a team and can communicate effectively in English. Experience in sedimentology, stratigraphy, geomorphological mapping, geochronology, GIS, or quantitative data analysis is an advantage. Additionally, for one of the two positions, prior interest or experience in luminescence dating, cosmogenic nuclides, or laboratory development work is particularly 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 fosters an environment that promotes development, diversity, and equal opportunities. Discover what makes us an exceptional employer and how you can grow with us.
Apply online using the form below. Only applications matching the job profile will be considered.
If you have any questions about the position, please reach out to:
Prof. Naki Akçar
naki.akcar@unibe.ch
For inquiries regarding the application process, please contact:
Sarah Antenen
sarah.antenen@unibe.ch
Location : Bern
Country : Switzerland