About the PhD Position
University of Lausanne invites applications for a Fully Funded PhD in Luminescence Dating and Sediment Studies within Earth Sciences at the Institute of Earth Surface Dynamics (IDYST), Lausanne, Switzerland. This doctoral project investigates sediment transport and storage in Alpine and Arctic proglacial rivers using advanced luminescence dating techniques. The research contributes to glacial geomorphology and sediment dynamics while combining fieldwork, laboratory analyses, and numerical modelling. The successful candidate will work under Dr Elena Serra and join the ICE (Interactions between Climate and Earth Surface Processes) and AlpWISE (Alpine Water, Ice, Sediment and Ecology) research groups, fostering interdisciplinary collaboration.
The PhD position is funded for four years through the Swiss National Science Foundation (SNSF) and provides full research support. Candidates will collect, prepare, and analyse sediment samples, measure hydrological parameters, and interpret proglacial river dynamics. Additionally, the project integrates innovative field instruments and cutting-edge analytical techniques to deliver high-quality, publishable research outcomes. Fieldwork will take place in the Swiss Alps and Southwest Greenland, offering international and practical research experience.
This programme provides structured doctoral training, access to the UNIL luminescence laboratory, and modern field equipment. Furthermore, candidates will benefit from a supportive, multicultural academic community, professional development workshops, and networking opportunities. The PhD is ideal for graduates in geography, geology, Earth sciences, or physics who aspire to academic, research, or postdoctoral careers in Earth Surface Dynamics and Glaciology.
This opportunity is particularly suitable for candidates with a background in geography, geology, Earth sciences, or physics who aim to pursue academic, research, or postdoctoral careers in Earth Surface Dynamics and Glaciology.
Explore fully funded research opportunities in Earth Sciences for international scholars seeking innovative doctoral positions with cutting-edge methods and interdisciplinary collaboration.
Program Overview
- Position: Fully Funded PhD / Doctoral Researcher in Constraining Proglacial Sediment Dynamics
- Position type: PhD / Doctoral Researcher
- Institution: University of Lausanne, Switzerland
- Department: Institute of Earth Surface Dynamics (IDYST), Faculty of Geosciences and Environment (FGSE)
- Research Group: ICE & AlpWISE
- Supervisor: Dr Elena Serra
- Location: Lausanne, Switzerland
- Duration: 4 years (initial 1-year contract, renewable up to 4 years)
- Start Date: 01 June 2026 (latest 01 September 2026)
- Funding: Full research funding under SNSF
- Employment Type: Full-time
- Number of Positions: 1
- Required Degree / Diploma: Master’s in Geography, Geology, Earth Sciences, or Physics
Explore fully funded research positions and academic opportunities at the University of Lausanne, Switzerland and take your research career to the next level.
Research Focus
- Advanced luminescence dating for sediment dynamics
- Alpine and Arctic proglacial river studies
- Field-based measurements of water discharge and sediment fluxes
- Integration of numerical modelling and geochemical analyses
Explore research and academic opportunities in Luminescence Dating, designed for scholars pursuing careers in Earth Sciences and Sediment Dynamics.
Eligibility Criteria
Minimum Requirements:
- Master’s degree in Geography, Geology, Earth Sciences, or Physics
- Strong interest in fieldwork, laboratory analyses, and numerical modelling
- Excellent command of written and spoken English
Preferred Qualifications:
- Experience with luminescence dating techniques
- Knowledge of glacial geomorphology or sediment dynamics
- Prior experience in interdisciplinary research projects
Discover fully funded PhD positions and scholarships for international students seeking advanced doctoral research and global academic opportunities.
Key Responsibilities
- Conduct fieldwork in Alpine and Arctic proglacial areas
- Collect, prepare, and analyse luminescence dating samples
- Measure hydrological and sediment transport parameters
- Collaborate with international research teams on modelling and data interpretation
Application Process
Applications must be submitted online via the UNIL portal.
Required Documents:
- Motivation letter (2 pages)
- Curriculum Vitae
- Copies of university degrees and transcripts
- Electronic version of a research output (e.g., MSc thesis, publication)
- Contact information of two professional references
Important Dates
- Application open: Immediately
- Application Deadline: 31 March 2026
- Expected Start Date: 01 June 2026 (latest 01 September 2026)
Where to Apply
- UNIL Website
- Department / Research Group Information: IDYST Institute
- Official Job Announcement: PhD Position 22698
- Application Portal: Submit Your Application
📧 Contact for Queries
- Email: elena.serra@unil.ch
This PhD position offers an excellent opportunity for international scholars seeking fully funded research support, field-based and laboratory collaboration, and advanced academic training at the University of Lausanne in Switzerland.
Explore fully funded PhD programmes, fellowships, scholarships, postdoctoral opportunities, and academic research grants for early-career scholars worldwide.
