About the Program
Utrecht University invites applications for a fully-funded PhD in Earth Sciences titled “Land-ocean interaction across the K/Pg boundary” at the Department of Earth Sciences. This doctoral position focuses on investigating the environmental changes and recovery processes following the end-Cretaceous mass extinction, addressing shifts in terrestrial and marine lithologies and ecosystem recovery. The project will be supervised by Dr Sietske Batenburg and aligns with the research theme of palaeoclimate, sedimentology, and stratigraphy. The research duration is four years and is based in Utrecht, Netherlands, with an expected start date of March 2026. This project offers opportunities for interdisciplinary collaboration, advanced research training in magnetostratigraphy, chemostratigraphy, sedimentology, and palynology, international networking, and professional academic development, including fieldwork in Spain and laboratory analysis.
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Program Details
- Position: Fully-funded PhD Position / Doctoral Researcher
- Institution: Utrecht University
- Department/Faculty: Department of Earth Sciences
- Supervisor: Dr Sietske Batenburg
- Location: Utrecht, Netherlands
- Start Date (Anticipated): March 2026
- Duration: 4 years
- Funding: Fully-funded, including monthly stipend (€3,059–€3,881), holiday pay, year-end bonus, pension scheme, and benefits
- Working Hours: 36–40 hours/week
- Required Degree/Diploma: Master’s degree (or equivalent) in:
- Earth Sciences
- Environmental Sciences
- Biology
- Chemistry or related disciplines
Research Focus/Area
- Sedimentology
- Stratigraphy
- Palaeoclimate reconstruction
- Magnetostratigraphy and chemostratigraphy
- Terrestrial and marine ecosystem recovery after mass extinction
Eligibility & Qualifications
Minimum Requirements:
- MSc degree in a relevant discipline by the start date
- Ability to work independently and collaboratively
- Good command of spoken and written English
Preferred Qualifications:
- Experience in processing geological samples
- Theoretical knowledge in sedimentology, stratigraphy, and palaeoclimate
- Statistics and coding skills
- Willingness to conduct fieldwork and lab work
- Strong written, graphical, and oral communication skills
- Creativity and curiosity in research
Key Features of the Program
- Structured personalised training programme (20% of time dedicated to training)
- International research environment
- Opportunities to assist in bachelor’s and master’s programmes
- Fieldwork in Spain and laboratory analysis
- Conference and workshop funding
- Institutional support and career development opportunities
Application Process
How to Apply:
Applications must be submitted online via the AcademicTransfer portal. Email applications will not be accepted.
Required Documents:
- Curriculum vitae (CV) including relevant courses
- Academic credentials and degree statements
- Letter of motivation including interest in the doctoral degree and project
Important Dates
- Applications Open: 20 November 2025
- Deadline: 4 January 2026 (22:59 UTC)
- Interviews (if applicable): Will be scheduled after the deadline
Where to Apply
- University Website: Utrecht University
- Official Notification: PhD Position Details
- Application Portal: Apply Here
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