Applications are invited for a postdoctoral position to study vegetational and land use dynamics in
response to climate change and technological innovations. The position involves own palynological
and palaeoecological research on sediment cores from Italy. We offer an inspiring and innovative
research environment with access to state-of-the-art infrastructure within a diverse and motivated
team.
The ideal candidate should have a PhD in Ecology, Environmental Sciences or Earth Sciences with a
strong background in numerical analysis and optical microscopy, specifically excellent knowledge of
palynology and/or plant macrofossil analysis. Knowledge of Mediterranean vegetation ecology is
required. A record of high-quality research (MSc and PhD level) and successful international
publication experience are essential. The ability to work well in a team with two PhD students will be
crucial as the project will be highly collaborative, involving external university and public partners
(e.g. archaeological surveys). Knowledge of Italian language is of advantage.
The successful candidate will work in the research section of Prof. Willy Tinner within the SNF (Swiss
National Science Foundation) project CIVES (Assessing the environmental context of past
urbanization dynamics using sedimentary archives). The project is based at the Institute of Plant
Sciences (https://www.ips.unibe.ch/index_eng.html) and the Oeschger Centre for Climate Change
Research of University of Bern (https://www.oeschger.unibe.ch/index_eng.html) and deals with the
early urbanization dynamics in Greece, Italy and Switzerland, covering the past 3000 years.
The gross annual salary falls within the range of 80,000 to 105,000 CHF per year for 100%. Part-time
employment can be negotiated but should reach 70%. The position is available from 1 January 2026
on, for a period of 12 months, extendable by arrangement up to 2+ years.
Please send your electronic application including a motivation letter (max. 1 page), CV, academic
transcripts, PhD diploma and contact address or reference letter of your PhD thesis supervisor as one
pdf file to willy.tinner@unibe.ch until 28. November 2025.
Prof. Willy Tinner, Head of Palaeoecological Research Section, Oeschger Centre for Climate Change
Research & Institute of Plant Sciences, University of Bern, Altenbergrain 21, 3013 Bern (Switzerland)
For further information on the research of our group see
https://www.ips.unibe.ch/research/paleo/index_eng.html
Original post here.