Summary
The University of Basel is offering two PhD positions within the Department of Environmental Sciences, focused on organic geochemistry and paleolimnology. The research will be part of the ECO-ICE project, aiming to understand past climatic and ecological changes during the Last Glacial Maximum for temperate tree species in Europe.
PhD Position in Organic Geochemistry and Paleolimnology, University of Basel, Switzerland
Designation
PhD Position (2 Openings)
Research Area
- Organic Geochemistry
- Paleolimnology
Location
University of Basel
Department of Environmental Sciences
Bernoullistrasse 32
4056 Basel, Switzerland
Eligibility/Qualification
- Master’s degree in Geosciences, Environmental Sciences, Chemistry, Biology, or a related discipline.
- Strong background in paleoclimatology.
- Experience with stable isotope and/or organic chemistry laboratory techniques is an advantage.
- Ability to work independently and in a team.
- Good communication skills, with fluency in English.
Job Description
The PhD students will:
- Participate in the ECO-ICE project, which reconstructs ecological and climatic conditions in Europe during the Last Glacial Maximum.
- Collect sediment cores from lakes and analyze them using paleoclimatic and paleoecological proxies.
- Focus on the distribution and stable isotopic composition of plant waxes and bacterial membrane lipids.
- Engage in laboratory work, biomarker purification, and stable isotope analyses.
- Join field campaigns across Central and Southern Europe and undertake research visits to the University of Utrecht for additional analyses.
How to Apply
Applicants must submit the following documents via the online recruiting platform:
- A letter detailing research interests, motivation, experience, and skills.
- A CV.
- Contact details for at least two references (one from the main advisor of the master’s thesis).
- Transcripts and diplomas of Bachelors and Master’s degrees (if available).
Last Date for Apply
April 21, 2026
Initial online interviews are scheduled for the week of April 27, 2026.
For inquiries about the application process, please contact Prof. Dr. Nemiah Ladd at n.ladd@unibas.ch. Note: Application materials should not be submitted via email.
This comprehensive overview covers all essential aspects of the scholarship opportunity available at the University of Basel.
