4-Year PhD Position in Landscape Evolution, University of Lausanne, Switzerland

Summary

The Institute of Earth Surface Dynamics (IDYST) at the University of Lausanne is offering a 4-year PhD position funded by the Swiss National Science Foundation (SNSF) project “(How) Do glaciers buzz saw?”. The successful candidate will join the Interactions between Climate and Earth surface processes (ICE) research group to investigate spatial and temporal variability in glacial erosion across the Patagonian Andes by combining electron spin resonance dating with state-of-the-art numerical modeling.

Designation

PhD Candidate / Doctoral Researcher

Overview Table

Research Area

• Primary Disciplines: Geomorphology, Landscape Evolution, Glaciology, Geochronology
• Research Focus: Application of electron spin resonance (ESR) thermochronometry, Instructed Glacial Model (IGM), and Pecube thermal-kinematic modeling software to analyze rates and timing of glacial erosion in the Patagonian Andes.

Location

Lausanne Mouline (Geopolis Building), University of Lausanne, Switzerland

Eligibility / Qualification

• Degree: Master’s degree in Geography, Geology, or Earth Science.
• Technical Background: Experience in trapped-charge dating (ESR or luminescence dating) and/or numerical modeling.
• Fieldwork: Fieldwork experience is an advantage (not mandatory).
• Key Attributes:
  • High proficiency in written and spoken English.
  • Strong motivation to develop new analytical and experimental approaches.
  • Keen scientific interest in geomorphology, glaciology, and landscape evolution.

Job Description

• Key Responsibilities:
  • Utilize ESR thermochronometry along with the Instructed Glacial Model (IGM) and Pecube software to quantify glacial erosion rates.
  • Conduct laboratory preparation, testing, and data analysis on geological samples.
  • Participate in fieldwork in the Patagonian Andes for original sample collection.
  • Work collaboratively within an international and multidisciplinary research team.
• Workplace Benefits:
  • Access to fully equipped ESR and luminescence dating laboratories and high-performance computing infrastructure.
  • Participation in professional development workshops, seminar series, and peer networks offered by UNIL’s Faculty of Geosciences and Environment.

How to Apply

Applications must be submitted electronically via the University of Lausanne Job Portal.

Prepare a single Word or PDF file containing:

1. Cover / Motivation Letter
2. Curriculum Vitae (CV)
3. Copies of university degrees and academic transcripts
4. An example of research output (e.g., MSc thesis or published scientific paper)
5. Contact details for two professional referees

Last Date for Apply

August 31, 2026

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