Postdoctoral Position in Bioinformatics and Plant Paleogenomics – University of Bern, Switzerland

The University of Bern is offering a two-year postdoctoral research position within the framework of the SNSF Consolidator grant project ARIaDNA. This role focuses on reconstructing how key European tree species responded to past environmental changes by analyzing genetic data from ancient plant remains preserved in lake sediment archives.

Designation

Postdoctoral Researcher in Bioinformatics and Plant Paleogenomics

Research Area

The position operates at the interface of bioinformatics, plant paleogenomics, climate change research, and vegetation modelling.

Location

Institute of Plant Sciences and the Oeschger Centre for Climate Change Research, University of Bern, Switzerland.

Eligibility/Qualification

• PhD: Must hold a PhD in bioinformatics, computational biology, biology, or a related discipline.
• Technical Skills: Substantial experience in bioinformatics, next-generation sequencing (NGS) data analysis, and ancient DNA (aDNA) research is essential.
• Programming: Proficiency in Python and R, along with experience using command-line tools and high-performance computing (HPC) clusters.
• Knowledge: Familiarity with population genetics, paleoecology, molecular biology, or vegetation ecology is considered an asset.
• Soft Skills: Strong analytical, organizational, and communication skills; precision and creativity in research.
• Language: Excellent command of English and a proven track record of scientific publications.

Job Description

The successful candidate will lead the bioinformatic analyses of ancient plant DNA datasets. Key responsibilities include:

• Developing and adapting advanced bioinformatic tools and pipelines for individual-based ancient DNA (aDNA) and sedimentary ancient DNA (sedaDNA) metabarcoding/metagenomics.
• Reconstructing changes in genetic diversity through time and investigating the genetic basis of adaptation to past environmental changes.
• Integrating paleogenomic data with population genetic models to test hypotheses about postglacial range expansion and demographic change in European tree species.
• Collaborating with an interdisciplinary research team and providing scientific guidance to PhD and MSc students.
• Presenting findings at international conferences and publishing results in peer-reviewed scientific journals.

How to Apply

Interested candidates should submit their application as a single PDF file to Prof. Christoph Schwörer via email at christoph.schwoerer@unibe.ch. The application must include:

• Motivation letter
• CV with publication list
• Academic transcripts
• PhD diploma
• Reference letter and contact details of your PhD supervisor

Last Date for Apply

1 December 2026. Applications received after this date may be considered until the position is filled.

Apply Link

For more details and to apply, please contact Prof. Christoph Schwörer at christoph.schwoerer@unibe.ch or visit the official job portal.