About the PhD Position
The University of Bern invites applications for a 2 Fully Funded PhD Researcher positions in Quaternary geology, geochronology, and paleoclimate research at the Institute of Geological Sciences, University of Bern, located in Bern, Switzerland. This exciting doctoral opportunity focuses on reconstructing past glacier dynamics, climate change, and landscape evolution in the Alps, contributing to the innovative SouthIce project.
Moreover, the successful candidate will join an international research collaboration involving ETH Zurich and University of Lausanne. You will engage in fieldwork, sedimentology, stratigraphy, and advanced geochronological methods such as cosmogenic nuclide dating, luminescence dating, and palaeomagnetic analysis. Access to cutting-edge laboratories, Alpine field sites, and interdisciplinary expertise ensures strong academic development and high-impact research outputs.
Applicants should hold a Master’s degree in Earth Sciences, Geology, Geography, Environmental Sciences, or related fields. Furthermore, experience in sedimentology, GIS, geomorphological mapping, or geochronology is advantageous. Strong analytical thinking, communication skills, and the ability to work independently and collaboratively are essential.
This is a fully funded, Four-Year PhD position, starting in September 2026. It offers competitive funding, international networking, and training opportunities. Additionally, the programme supports conference participation and interdisciplinary collaboration, enhancing global academic career prospects.
Explore fully funded geochronology scholarships, research positions, and academic jobs for international scholars pursuing global careers in geochronology, dating methods, Earth history, and advanced geological sciences.
Program Overview
- Position: Fully Funded PhD / Doctoral Researcher in Quaternary Geology
- Position type: PhD Research Position
- Institution: University of Bern, Switzerland
- Department: Institute of Geological Sciences, Faculty of Science
- Research Group: SouthIce Project
- Supervisor: Naki Akçar (Prof.)
- Location: Bern
- Country: Switzerland
- Duration: 4 years (until 31 August 2030)
- Start Date: September 2026
- Funding: Fully funded under the SNSF SouthIce Project
- Employment Type: Full-time (100%)
- Number of Positions: 2
- Required Degree / Diploma: Master’s in a relevant field
Explore the latest postdoctoral fellowships, fully funded research positions, and academic job opportunities in Switzerland, including the University of Bern, for international scholars seeking global research careers in geology, paleoclimate, and interdisciplinary Earth Sciences.
Research Area
- Quaternary Geology
- Paleoclimate Research
- Glacial Geomorphology
- Sedimentology and Stratigraphy
- Geochronology
- Climate Change Reconstruction
Find more palaeoclimate research careers, global PhD programmes, postdoctoral opportunities, faculty openings, and interdisciplinary Earth system science pathways, linking scholars with funded climate projects, glacier studies, and impactful academic careers worldwide.
Eligibility Criteria
Minimum Requirements:
- Master’s degree in Earth Sciences, Geology, Geography, or Environmental Sciences
- Strong interest in glacial geology and paleoclimate research
- Ability to conduct field and laboratory research
Preferred Qualifications:
- Experience in sedimentology, GIS, or stratigraphy
- Knowledge of geochronological techniques
- Skills in quantitative data analysis
- Experience in luminescence or cosmogenic dating (advantageous)
Discover fully funded PhD positions and scholarships for international students, and start your career at top global universities while pursuing advanced doctoral research and international academic opportunities.
Key Responsibilities
- Conduct fieldwork in the southern Alpine foreland
- Perform geomorphological mapping and stratigraphic logging
- Collect and analyse geological samples
- Apply geochronological dating techniques
- Collaborate with international research partners
- Publish research in peer-reviewed journals
Application Process
Applications must be submitted as a single PDF file via the official university application system.
Required Documents:
- Motivation letter
- Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Degree certificates
- Academic transcripts
- Contact details of two referees
- Indication of preferred PhD track
- Supporting research documents (if applicable)
Important Dates
- Applications Open: April 2026
- Application Deadline: 30 May 2026
- Interview Period: Not specified
- Expected Start Date: September 2026
Where to Apply
- University/Institution: University of Bern
- Unit/Department: Institute of Geological Sciences
- Job ID: Not specified
Official Information
- Source: Official University Website
- Apply Link: Fully funded 2 PhD positions (100%) in the SNSF project SouthIce – Universität Bern
This position offers an excellent opportunity for scholars seeking fully funded research positions, international collaboration, and advanced academic development at the University of Bern, Switzerland.
Find the latest fully funded scholarships, postdoctoral fellowships, and global research opportunities at higherjobz and advance your international academic career.
