Benefit from the excellent reputation of a long-standing institution recognized worldwide. With us, you will be part of cutting-edge research and a vibrant academic community.
At the latest, July 1, 2026.
Fixed-term position.
Institute of Plant Sciences
Institute of Plant Sciences Research
Oeschger Centre for Climate Change Research
How did Europe's temperate forests survive the harshest climatic period of the last Ice Age? Where were the last refuges of temperate flora when ice sheets and permafrost covered much of the continent? What lessons can these ancient survival strategies teach us about the future of ecosystems facing rapid climate change?
We invite applications for a 4-year PhD position within the interdisciplinary ECO-ICE project funded by the Swiss National Science Foundation (SNSF). This project, based at the Institute of Plant Sciences and Oeschger Centre for Climate Change Research at the University of Bern, seeks to answer these critical questions.
As a PhD student, you will explore ancient ecosystems through sedimentary palaeoecological approaches, contributing directly to reconstructing past vegetation communities and uncovering the survival of temperate species in Europe during the Last Glacial Maximum, approximately 20,000 years ago. Your studies will also assess the spread of temperate species from their refugia during subsequent warming and investigate implications for future ecosystem dynamics.
Your responsibilities will include retrieving lake sediment cores during field campaigns across Europe. Techniques employed will encompass palynology, macrofossils, radiocarbon dating, XRF, and other palaeoecological methods for comprehensive reconstructions. This interdisciplinary project features collaboration with other PhD students and postdoctoral researchers in palaeoclimatology, palaeogenomics, and dynamic modelling, in association with groups from the Universities of Bern and Basel. You will present your research at international conferences, publish in peer-reviewed scientific journals, and engage in science communication and outreach activities.
We seek curious, highly motivated, and collaborative early-career scientists eager to work at the intersection of ecology, palaeoecology, and climate sciences. You should hold a Master of Science degree (MSc) in Biology, Ecology, Environmental Sciences, Climate Sciences, Geology, Geography, or a related field. A strong knowledge of European plant species, vegetation ecology, sediment analysis, palynology, charcoal analysis, and/or plant macrofossil analysis is essential. Proficiency in statistical and numeric skills is required. Ideally, you will have experience in writing scientific articles and demonstrate effective communication skills in English.
Engage in exciting research within a vibrant and international team at a beautiful location near the Botanical Garden in Bern, Switzerland. The city is well-connected to the Alps and other major European cities, providing an enriching living experience. You will also be enrolled in the Graduate School of Climate Sciences, which offers interdisciplinary training and transferable-skills courses. Employment conditions adhere to SNSF salary guidelines.
The University of Bern not only provides 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.
For inquiries regarding the position, please contact willy.tinner@unibe.ch.
Location : Bern
Country : Switzerland