Fully funded PhD in Paleoclimatology at Utrecht University

About the Program

Utrecht University, one of Europe’s leading centres for Earth and Environmental Sciences, invites applications for a fully funded PhD position in Paleoclimatology within the Department of Earth Sciences. The selected candidate will join the Stratigraphy and Palaeontology group to work on the project “Eemian Sea Level” under the supervision of Prof. Dr Lucas J. Lourens. This four-year research project investigates sea level variations during the Eemian interglacial period (approximately 125,000 years ago) using a combination of proxy data analysis and ice sheet modelling. The research aims to uncover how the Greenland and Antarctic ice sheets contributed to past sea level rise, providing valuable insights for future climate change projections. The position offers a unique interdisciplinary environment with close links to the Earth System Feedback Research Centre (EMBRACER) and the Horizon Europe “Past to Future” (P2F) project.

Program Details

Position: Fully Funded PhD Position in Paleoclimatology
Institution: Utrecht University
Department/Faculty: Department of Earth Sciences – Stratigraphy and Palaeontology Group
Supervisor: Prof. Dr Lucas J. Lourens
Location: Utrecht, Netherlands
Start Date (Anticipated): March 2026
Duration: 4 years
Funding: Full funding under the Collective Labour Agreement for Dutch Universities (CAO NU); gross monthly salary between €3,059 and €3,881; includes 8% holiday pay and 8.3% year-end bonus
Working Hours: 36–40 hours per week
Required Degree/Diploma: Master’s degree in Earth Sciences, Environmental Sciences, Biology, Climate Physics, Oceanography or a related field

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Research Focus/Area

Paleoclimatology and Palaeoceanography
Sea Level Reconstruction during the Eemian Interglacial
Ice Sheet Modelling (Greenland and Antarctic)
Stable Isotope Analysis of Marine Fossils
Climate System Feedbacks and Sea Level Change

Eligibility & Qualifications

Minimum Requirements:

Master’s degree (or equivalent) in Earth Sciences, Environmental Sciences, Biology, Climate Physics, Oceanography, or a closely related discipline
Strong command of spoken and written English

Preferred Qualifications:

Experience or strong interest in palaeoclimate or palaeoceanography
Skills in micropalaeontology and laboratory techniques
Affinity with coding, programming, or climate modelling
Ability to work independently and collaboratively
Excellent communication and organisational skills

Key Features of the Program

Interdisciplinary and international research environment
Integration within the EMBRACER and Horizon Europe P2F networks
Personalised training and development plan
Opportunity to assist in undergraduate and master’s teaching (up to 10% of working time)
Access to advanced laboratory and modelling facilities
Professional development and flexible employment benefits at Utrecht University