Summary
The Animal Origins and Morphology Lab (ANOM Lab) at the Institute of Earth Sciences, University of Lausanne (UNIL), invites applications for a fully funded PhD position in the taphonomy of fossil microbialites. The position is embedded in Project OASIS (Origin of Life Analogues and Archives) of the NCCR Genesis and will combine field and laboratory work in geochemistry, mineralogy, microbiology and taphonomy to study formation, transformation and preservation of microbialites in the rock record.
Designation
Position: PhD researcher (Doctoral position) in Taphonomy of Fossil Microbialites
Key information
| Requisition ID | 23004 |
| Posted | 14 October 2026 |
| Expected start | 1 January 2027 (or upon mutual agreement) |
| Contract length | 4 years (1 + 2 + 1) |
| Activity rate | 100% |
| Workplace | Institute of Earth Sciences, University of Lausanne (UNIL), Geopolis building |
| Supervision | Allison Daley (UNIL); collaborative project with Nina Zeyen (UNIGE) and Anneleen Foubert (UNIFR) |
Research Area
- Taphonomy and fossil preservation
- Microbialites and microbial mats
- Geochemistry and mineralogy of early diagenesis
- Paleontology and decay experiments
- Probability-based taphonomic analyses and database development of microbialite localities
Location
Lausanne, Switzerland — Institute of Earth Sciences (ISTE), University of Lausanne. The campus is located near Lake Geneva and the Lavaux UNESCO terraced vineyards.
Eligibility / Qualification
- A Master’s degree (or equivalent) in Geology, Earth Sciences, Biology, or a closely related field.
- Motivation to work in an interdisciplinary team across geochemistry, mineralogy, microbiology and paleontology.
- Experience with paleontology, microbialites, decay experiments, or taphonomy is advantageous but not mandatory.
Scholarship Description
This fully funded doctoral position is part of the NCCR Genesis Project OASIS and focuses on understanding how microbialites form, transform and are preserved in the rock record. The PhD will combine:
- Field characterization of microbialite localities (mineralogy, preserved structures, geochemistry).
- Construction of an archive database of microbialite sites and probability-based taphonomic analysis to unravel preservation pathways.
- Laboratory decay and early diagenesis experiments on samples from modern microbial environments to identify conditions that stabilize organic matter.
The successful candidate will work closely with two other PhD students in the project (UNIGE and UNIFR) as well as postdocs and technical staff. The position offers access to UNIL’s state-of-the-art paleontology and aquarium research facilities, fossil preparation and imaging equipment, and a supportive, international academic environment. UNIL provides opportunities for professional development and supports equality, diversity and inclusion.
What the position offers you
- Full-time funded PhD contract for up to four years.
- Access to modern laboratory and imaging facilities in the Geopolis building.
- Membership in a collaborative interdisciplinary research network (NCCR Genesis).
- Supportive academic environment with professional training and career development options.
- High quality of life in Lausanne with nearby alpine and lacustrine environments for field work.
How to Apply
Applications follow a two-step process:
- Initial blind assessment: Complete the short online form with answers to the provided questions. At the end of the online form you will be asked to provide your email. Link to form: https://forms.gle/i5ZUpANWCnB1Uxdm6.
- If selected from the blind assessment, you will be invited by email to submit a single PDF containing:
- CV (must include the same email used in the online form)
- Cover letter explaining research interests, relevant experience and motivation for the PhD
- Copies of academic transcripts
- Names and contact details of two referees
Applications are first screened via the blind questionnaire; shortlisted candidates will be contacted for the full application submission.
Contact for further information
For specific questions about the project or supervision, contact the Animal Origins and Morphology Lab at the Institute of Earth Sciences, UNIL. General information about working at UNIL is available at unil.ch/work. Information about NCCR Genesis is available at nccr-genesis.ch.
Last Date for Apply
Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis and considered until the position is filled. Candidates are encouraged to apply early.
Apply Link
https://forms.gle/i5ZUpANWCnB1Uxdm6
Additional Information
UNIL is committed to equality, diversity and inclusion, fostering an open and respectful environment conducive to personal development and work-life balance. Support for early career researchers and family-friendly measures are available. For more information see:
