About the Program
São Paulo State University (UNESP) invites applications for a fully-funded PhD in Geochronology and Paleomagnetism of an ICDP core at the Department of Geology. This doctoral research focuses on establishing a precise chronological framework for glacial sequences and understanding tectonic and landscape evolution in the Alpine foreland. The project is part of the international ICDP-DOVE initiative investigating Overdeepened Alpine Valleys. The PhD will be supervised by Prof. Giancarlo Scardia (UNESP, Brazil), in collaboration with Profs. Fiebig and Lüthgens, and Dr. Neuhuber (BOKU University, Austria). The research will include fieldwork in Italy, laboratory work in Brazil and Austria, and international collaboration. The program offers scholarship support via FAPESP and Ernst Mach Worldwide mobility grants, and enrolment in the UNESP post-graduation programme in Rio Claro, São Paulo, Brazil.
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Program Details
- Position: Fully-funded PhD / Doctoral Researcher
- Institution: São Paulo State University (UNESP)
- Department/Faculty: Department of Geology
- Supervisor: Prof. Giancarlo Scardia
- Location: Rio Claro, São Paulo, Brazil
- Start Date (Anticipated): February 2026
- Duration: 3–4 years
- Funding: Fully-funded scholarship, international mobility support
- Working Hours: Full-time, 40 hrs/week
- Required Degree/Diploma: Master’s degree (or equivalent) in: Geology, Geophysics, Physical Geography
Research Focus/Area
- Quaternary Geochronology
- Paleomagnetism
- Luminescence Dating
- Cosmogenic Nuclide Burial Dating
- Glacial Dynamics and Depositional Processes
- Tectonic and Landscape Evolution
Eligibility & Qualifications
Minimum Requirements:
- Master’s degree in Geology, Geophysics, or Physical Geography
- Good command of English; basic Portuguese knowledge helpful
Preferred Qualifications:
- Experience in Quaternary Geology, Geochronology, or Paleomagnetism
- Research experience in sedimentology or stratigraphy
- Strong academic record and collaborative skills
Key Features of the Program
- Participation in international research consortium (ICDP-DOVE)
- Fieldwork in Northern Italy and laboratory work in Brazil and Austria
- Opportunities for conference presentations and international networking
- Scholarship and mobility grants through FAPESP and ÖAD
- Enrolment in a structured postgraduate program with coursework
Application Process
How to Apply: Submit your application via email to Prof. Giancarlo Scardia (giancarlo.scardia@unesp.br).
Required Documents:
- Motivation letter (1–2 pages)
- Curriculum Vitae (CV) with academic transcripts
- Contact details of 2–3 referees
Important Dates
- Applications Open: Immediately
- Deadline: 31 January 2026 – 18:00 (America/Sao_Paulo)
- Interviews (if applicable): Rolling review until the position is filled
Where to Apply
- University Website: UNESP Institute of Geosciences
- Offitical Notification: click here
- Apply Now: Send your application or questions to Giancarlo Scardia (giancarlo.scardia@unesp.br)
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