PhD Position in Earth System Modeling of Catastrophic Events / PhD Position in Earth System Modeling of Catastrophic Events

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Start Date

01.10.2026 or upon agreement

Employment Relationship

Fixed-term

Institution / Workplace

Physics Institute, Climate and Environmental Physics

Project Description

The Ocean Modelling Group and the Atmospheric Dynamics Group within the Climate and Environmental Physics Division at the University of Bern invites applications for a PhD position in Earth system modeling. This position will focus on the climate and biogeochemical responses to large-scale catastrophic events. The PhD candidate will play an integral role in the newly established National Competence Centre for Research, NCCR GENESIS (www.nccr-genesis.ch). NCCR Genesis is a cutting-edge research infrastructure project funded by SNSF, concentrating on the exploration of the emergence of life in the Universe.

This interdisciplinary initiative unites physicists, earth and planetary scientists, chemists, and biologists aimed at understanding the conditions and mechanisms conducive to life emergence. Developing reliable methods to detect definitive traces of life—whether through remote sensing or direct onsite measurements—demands significant innovation and close collaboration across various scientific fields. NCCR Genesis seeks not only to uncover answers but also to pioneer innovative research and drive substantial progress.

As such, this project provides a unique opportunity to collaborate with leading experts in planetary sciences within the NCCR GENESIS, as well as with top climate scientists at the Climate and Environmental Physics Division and the Oeschger Centre for Climate Change Research at the University of Bern. The successful candidate will become an integral member of the Ocean Modeling Group and Atmospheric Dynamics Group.

Tasks

The PhD candidate will investigate how extreme perturbations to the Earth system—such as massive volcanic eruptions and meteorite impacts—affect the Earth's climate and biosphere across various historical configurations. Key responsibilities include:

• Designing and conducting targeted climate simulations across different Earth system configurations, including variations in atmospheric composition, orbital forcing, and continental layouts.
• Utilizing the state-of-the-art Earth System Model GFDL ESM to simulate the interconnected dynamics of climate and carbon cycles.
• Presenting findings at national and international scientific conferences and publishing research in peer-reviewed journals.

Requirements

We seek an outstanding candidate with the following qualifications:

• A Master's degree in climate science, physics, oceanography, atmospheric dynamics, Earth sciences, or a related field.
• Experience in climate modeling, programming, and analysis of large datasets is highly desirable.
• Knowledge of the climate system and global biogeochemical cycles is an asset.
• Excellent written and spoken English skills are required.

We are deeply committed to equality, diversity, and inclusion, striving to create a respectful and equitable workplace culture with equal access to professional development and support for all. We strongly encourage applications from under-represented groups.

Your Benefits

• Strong research infrastructure and international network.
• Team-oriented work environment.
• Inspiring atmosphere to foster innovation.
• Individual support and guidance throughout your journey.

Working at the University of Bern

The University of Bern offers not just exciting opportunities, but also an environment that actively promotes development, diversity, and equal opportunities. Explore what sets us apart as an employer and how you can thrive with us.

Application and Contact

Interested candidates are encouraged to apply online using the form below.

Only applications matching the job profile will be considered.

Questions about the position?

Contact: Prof. Thomas Frölicher, thomas.froelicher@unibe.ch