PhD Student in Palaeoecology / PhD Studentess in Palaeoecology

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Start Date

Latest by July 1, 2026.

Employment Relationship

Fixed-term.

Institution / Workplace

Institute of Plant Sciences

• Institute of Plant Sciences - Paleoecology
• Oeschger Centre for Climate Change Research

Project Description

We invite applications for a 4-year PhD-student position within the interdisciplinary Swiss National Science Foundation (SNSF) funded project ECO-ICE at the University of Bern, Switzerland. This project seeks to answer crucial questions about the survival of Europe's temperate forests during the last Ice Age.

As a PhD student, you will explore ancient ecosystems through sedimentary palaeoecological approaches. Your work will focus on reconstructing past vegetation communities, investigating the survival of temperate species in Europe during the Last Glacial Maximum (approximately 20,000 years ago), and understanding their spread during subsequent climatic warming.

Your responsibilities will include:

• Retrieving lake sediment cores during field campaigns across Europe.
• Employing techniques such as palynology, macrofossils, radiocarbon dating, and XRF for palaeoecological reconstruction.
• Collaborating with a team comprising other PhD students and postdoctoral researchers in palaeoclimatology, palaeogenomics, and dynamic modelling.
• Presenting your research at international conferences and publishing in peer-reviewed journals.
• Contributing to science communication and outreach initiatives.

Candidate Profile

We seek curious, highly motivated, and collaborative early-career scientists who are excited to work at the intersection of ecology, palaeoecology, and climate sciences. The ideal candidate 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 and effective communication in English.
• Good organization skills.

What We Offer

You will conduct groundbreaking research in a vibrant and international team at a stunning location near the Botanical Garden in Bern, the capital of Switzerland. The city is well-connected to the Alps and various European cities, making it an ideal place to live and work. Furthermore, you will be enrolled in the Graduate School of Climate Sciences, which provides interdisciplinary training and transferable skills courses. Employment conditions follow SNSF salary guidelines.

Your Benefits

• International reputation.
• 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 offers not only 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 thrive in our community.

Application Process

Apply online using the form below. Please ensure that your application aligns with the job profile, as only submissions that match will be considered. Note that candidates must be available to start by July 1, 2026, and should already possess their MSc diploma.

Contact Information

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