PhD Student in Palaeoecology / PhD Student in Palaeoecology

Join the University of Bern – A Prestigious Institution

At the University of Bern, you will benefit from the excellent reputation of a long-standing institution recognized globally.

Start Date

The latest start date for this position is July 1, 2026.

Employment Relationship

This position is fixed-term.

Institution / Workplace

Institute of Plant Sciences
Institute of Plant Sciences
Oeschger Centre for Climate Change Research

Project Description

We invite applications for a four-year PhD-student position within the interdisciplinary Swiss National Science Foundation (SNSF) funded project ECO-ICE. This project, based at the Institute of Plant Sciences and Oeschger Centre for Climate Change Research at the University of Bern, seeks to answer pivotal questions regarding the survival of Europe's temperate forests during the last Ice Age and the implications of ancient ecosystems for our future under rapid climate change.

As a PhD student, you will utilize sedimentary palaeoecological methods to explore ancient ecosystems. Your research will be instrumental in reconstructing past vegetation communities and understanding how temperate species in Europe adapted and survived during the Last Glacial Maximum, approximately 20,000 years ago. You will study the spread of these species in response to subsequent climate warming and analyze the lessons they can teach us about modern ecosystem dynamics.

Your role will involve retrieving lake sediment cores during field campaigns across Europe, utilizing methods such as palynology, macrofossil analysis, radiocarbon dating, and XRF, to create comprehensive palaeoecological reconstructions. This interdisciplinary project includes collaboration with other PhD students and postdoctoral researchers specializing in palaeoclimatology, palaeogenomics, and dynamic modeling. You will have opportunities to present your findings at international conferences, publish in peer-reviewed journals, and engage in science communication and outreach.

Who We Are Looking For

We seek curious, highly motivated, and collaborative early-career scientists eager to work at the intersection of ecology, palaeoecology, and climate sciences. Ideal candidates will have:

• A Master of Science degree (MSc) in Biology, Ecology, Environmental Sciences, Climate Sciences, Geology, Geography, or a related discipline.
• Strong knowledge of European plant species, vegetation ecology, sediment analysis, palynology, charcoal analysis, and/or plant macrofossil analysis.
• Statistical and numerical skills.
• Experience in writing scientific articles (preferred).
• Excellent organizational skills and effective communication abilities in English.

What We Offer

You will engage in groundbreaking research within a vibrant, international team situated near the Botanical Garden in Bern, Switzerland's capital. The city is centrally located in Europe and provides excellent connections to other European cities. Additionally, you will be enrolled in the Graduate School of Climate Sciences, which offers interdisciplinary training and transferable skills courses. Employment conditions will adhere to SNSF salary guidelines.

Your Benefits

• International reputation in research
• Strong research infrastructure and international network
• Opportunities for interdisciplinary collaboration
• Central location in the heart of Bern

Working at the University of Bern

The University of Bern not only presents exciting tasks but also fosters an environment that champions development, diversity, and equal opportunities. Discover what makes us stand out as an employer and how you can thrive with us.

Application Process

Apply online using the form below. Please ensure you submit your application only if you can start by July 1, 2026, and have already obtained your MSc diploma.

Contact Information

For questions about the position, please reach out to: willy.tinner@unibe.ch

Only applications matching the job profile will be considered.