About the Position
University of Basel invites applications for two fully funded PhD positions in Quaternary Palaeoecology at the Department of Environmental Sciences, within the Geoecology research group. This exciting academic opportunity focuses on reconstructing past climates, studying ice age refugia, and analysing chironomid-based palaeoecological records. The research contributes to international projects in palaeoecology, biogeography, and climate change modelling.
The successful candidates will work closely within the interdisciplinary SNF research project ECO-ICE. They will collect, analyse, and interpret lake sediment records from key refugial sites, develop high-resolution palaeoecological temperature reconstructions, and integrate results with vegetation models and independent palaeobotanical datasets. Access to advanced sediment analysis laboratories, fieldwork in Western, Central, and Southern Europe, and guidance from experienced researchers ensures a stimulating environment for scientific development.
Applicants should hold an MSc in Earth or Environmental Sciences, Physical Geography, Ecology, Quaternary Science, or related fields, with practical experience in palaeoecology, paleolimnology, or microfossil analysis. Motivation for fieldwork abroad, strong communication, and teamwork skills are essential. Preferred candidates will demonstrate expertise in statistical analysis, ecological interpretation, and interdisciplinary collaboration.
This is a full-time position, funded for four years by the Swiss National Science Foundation (SNF), starting in July 2026. The appointment offers opportunities for international collaboration, conference participation, and professional growth in a globally recognised research environment.
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Position / Job Details
- Position: PhD Student – Quaternary Palaeoecology
- Institution: University of Basel, Switzerland
- Department: Department of Environmental Sciences, Faculty of Science
- Research Field: Quaternary Palaeoecology / Climate Reconstruction
- Supervisor: Prof. Dr Oliver Heiri
- Location: Basel
- Country: Switzerland
- Job Type: Full-time PhD
- Number of Positions: 2
- Start Date: July 2026
- Working Hours: 100%
- Salary / Funding: SNF Guidelines – fully funded
- Required Degree / Diploma: MSc in Earth/Environmental Sciences, Ecology, Geography, Quaternary Science, or related field
Explore advanced PhD programmes, postdoctoral fellowships, research jobs, and interdisciplinary academic opportunities at University of Basel, Switzerland, for international scholars seeking fully funded research and global academic collaboration.
Research Area
- Quaternary Palaeoecology
- Climate Reconstruction
- Palaeolimnology
- Microfossil Analysis (Chironomids)
- Ice Age Refugia Studies
- Ecosystem and Species Response to Climate Change
- Multivariate Statistical Analysis
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Eligibility Criteria
Minimum Requirements
- MSc in Earth Sciences, Environmental Sciences, Ecology, Quaternary Science, or related fields
- Strong English communication skills
- Motivation for fieldwork and collaborative research
Preferred Qualifications
- Experience in palaeoecology, paleolimnology, or sediment analysis
- Knowledge of microfossil identification (chironomids)
- Statistical and ecological data analysis experience
- Willingness to contribute to interdisciplinary projects
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Key Responsibilities
- Develop high-resolution palaeoecological records
- Analyse lake sediment and aquatic invertebrate assemblages
- Reconstruct glacial and post-glacial temperatures
- Collaborate with project partners across Europe
- Contribute to publications, reports, and conference presentations
Application Process
Submit your complete application via the official portal, including:
Required Documents
- Letter of motivation
- CV / Resume
- Copies of academic qualifications
- Contact details for three referees
- Other Supporting Documents
Important Dates
- Applications Open: Now
- Application Deadline: 24 April 2026
- Expected Start Date: July 2026
Where to Apply
- University / Institute Website: University of Basel
- Department / Research Group: Geoecology Group
- Official Job Announcement: PhD Positions – ECO-ICE Project
- Application Portal: Submit Your Application
📧 Contact for Queries
- Email: oliver.heiri@unibas.ch
This position offers an excellent opportunity for scholars seeking fully funded research, international academic collaboration, and advanced research experience at the University of Basel, Switzerland.
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