About the PhD Position
The University of Basel invites applications for a fully funded PhD Researcher position in Quaternary Palaeoecology within the Department of Environmental Sciences, Geoecology group, located in Basel, Switzerland. This doctoral opportunity focuses on chironomid-based climate reconstruction, Ice Age ecosystems, and palaeoclimate dynamics across Europe. Importantly, the research contributes to the SNF-funded ECO-ICE project, which investigates refugial environments during the Last Glacial Maximum.
In addition, the PhD candidates will work on lake sediment records from key European sites, combining fieldwork, sediment analysis, and microfossil identification. They will study chironomid (non-biting midge) remains under microscopes and reconstruct past temperature changes using advanced statistical modelling. Moreover, the project integrates palaeoecology, biogeography, and climate science to understand post-glacial ecosystem expansion and environmental change.
Applicants should hold a Master’s degree in Earth Sciences, Ecology, Quaternary Science, Environmental Sciences, or related disciplines. Experience in palaeolimnology, microfossil analysis, or sediment research is highly desirable. Strong English communication skills, teamwork ability, and motivation for international fieldwork are essential for success in this interdisciplinary research environment.
This four-year SNF-funded PhD offers advanced training, mobility across Europe, and access to leading palaeoclimate research facilities. Furthermore, the programme provides access to high-impact publications, advanced laboratory facilities, and academic development through interdisciplinary supervision and global research networks.
Candidates interested in similar pathways can explore more fully funded PhD positions in Europe or browse related palaeoecology research opportunities.
Program Overview
- Position: Fully Funded PhD / Doctoral Researcher in Quaternary Palaeoecology
- Position type: Full-time doctoral research
- Institution: University of Basel, Switzerland
- Department: Department of Environmental Sciences
- Research Group: Geoecology Group
- Supervisor: Prof. Dr Oliver Heiri
- Location: Basel, Switzerland
- Duration: 4 years (SNF-funded)
- Start Date: July 2026
- Funding: SNF-funded PhD salary (Swiss National Science Foundation scale)
- Employment Type: Full-time research position
- Number of Positions: 2
- Required Degree: Master’s degree in a relevant field
Research Area
- Quaternary Palaeoecology
- Chironomid-based climate reconstruction
- Ice Age ecosystem dynamics
- Palaeolimnology and sedimentology
- Biogeography and climate modelling
- Lake sediment analysis and microfossils
- Palaeoclimate reconstruction techniques
Eligibility Criteria
Minimum Requirements:
- MSc in Earth Sciences, Ecology, Geography, or related field
- Strong interest in palaeoecology and climate reconstruction
- Ability to conduct fieldwork across Europe
- Excellent English communication skills
Preferred Qualifications:
- Experience in microfossil or chironomid analysis
- Knowledge of limnology or sedimentology
- Statistical or quantitative ecology skills
- Prior laboratory or microscopy experience
Key Responsibilities
- Conduct fieldwork across European lake sites
- Analyse lake sediment cores and fossil assemblages
- Identify chironomid remains under microscopes
- Develop quantitative palaeotemperature reconstructions
- Apply multivariate statistical and modelling methods
- Collaborate with PhD researchers across Basel and Bern
Application Process
Applications must be submitted online through the official University of Basel recruitment platform. Candidates should ensure complete documentation before submission, as incomplete applications may not be considered.
Required Documents:
- Motivation letter
- Updated CV
- Academic transcripts and certificates
- Contact details of three referees
- Relevant research experience statement
- Writing sample or publication list (if available)
- Proof of English proficiency (if applicable)
Important Dates:
- Applications Open: Already open
- Application Deadline: From 24 April (rolling until filled)
- Interview Period: After shortlisting
- Expected Start Date: July 2026
Why This Opportunity Matters
This PhD offers a unique chance to work at the intersection of:
- Climate change science
- Ice Age ecosystem reconstruction
- High-resolution environmental modelling
- International research collaboration
It provides advanced training, global mobility, and access to high-impact scientific publishing opportunities.
Explore More Opportunities
If you are interested in similar academic pathways, explore:
- Fully funded PhD positions in Europe
- Climate science research programs
- Research fellowships in environmental sciences
- International humanities opportunities
Official information
- University/Institution: University of Basel
- Department: Department of Environmental Sciences, Geoecology Group
- Job ID: Not specified
- Source: University of Basel
- Official Notification: Universität Basel: 2 PhD positions in Quaternary Palaeoecology / chironomid-based climate reconstruction
Where to apply
Applications must be submitted through the official University of Basel recruitment portal. Candidates are advised to prepare all required documents before submission, as incomplete applications may not be considered.
👉 Apply now via the official University of Basel PhD recruitment system.
This PhD provides structured training, international collaboration, and hands-on research in Quaternary palaeoecology, with opportunities to contribute to high-impact scientific publications.
Don’t miss this opportunity to join a leading European palaeoclimate research project—apply early as positions may close once filled.
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