Postdoctoral Research Associate in Palynology and Paleoecology / Postdoctoral Research Associate in Palynology and Paleoecology

Postdoctoral Position in Vegetational and Land Use Dynamics

We invite applications for a postdoctoral position focused on studying vegetational and land use dynamics in response to climate change and technological innovations. This position offers the opportunity to conduct original palynological and palaeoecological research using sediment cores from Italy. Join our innovative research environment, equipped with state-of-the-art infrastructure, and collaborate with a diverse and motivated team.

Ideal Candidate Profile

The ideal candidate should possess the following qualifications:

• PhD in Ecology, Environmental Sciences, or Earth Sciences
• Strong background in numerical analysis and optical microscopy
• Excellent knowledge of palynology and/or plant macrofossil analysis
• Familiarity with Mediterranean vegetation ecology
• A demonstrated record of high-quality research (MSc and PhD level) and international publication experience
• A collaborative mindset and the ability to work well in a team with two PhD students
• Knowledge of Italian is an advantage

Research Opportunity

The selected candidate will work under the supervision of Prof. Willy Tinner in the research section associated with the SNF (Swiss National Science Foundation) project CIVES. This project aims to assess the environmental context of past urbanization dynamics using sedimentary archives and spans research locations in Greece, Italy, and Switzerland over the past 3000 years. The work will be based at the Institute of Plant Sciences and the Oeschger Centre for Climate Change Research at the University of Bern.

Salary and Employment Details

The gross annual salary for this position ranges from 80,000 to 105,000 CHF for full-time employment. Part-time arrangements can be negotiated, aiming for at least 70% employment. The position is available starting from 1 January 2026, initially for a duration of 12 months, with the possibility of extension by arrangement for up to 2+ years.

Apply online using the form below. Please note that only applications matching the job profile will be considered.

Contact Information

For further information about our research group, please refer to our website. For any inquiries regarding this position, feel free to contact:

Prof. Willy Tinner
Head of Palaeoecological Research Section,
Oeschger Centre for Climate Change Research & Institute of Plant Sciences,
University of Bern,
Altenbergrain 21,
3013 Bern, Switzerland