PhD Position in Earth System Modelling of Climate Tipping Points at University of Bern University of Bern in Switzerland

PhD opportunity in Earth system modelling of climate tipping points at the University of Bern, within the Oeschger Centre for Climate Change Research and the Climate and Environmental Physics Division. The project is part of the newly established NCCR CLIM+ and is embedded in an active ocean modelling team.

The research focuses on the Atlantic Meridional Overturning Circulation (AMOC), climate system extremes, the carbon cycle response to a potential future collapse of the AMOC, and interactions with other tipping elements. The successful candidate will design, run, and analyze targeted experiments using a state-of-the-art fully coupled Earth system model.

This PhD is a strong fit for candidates interested in climate science, Earth science, physics, oceanography, and computational modelling. Desired skills include climate modelling, programming, and large dataset analysis. Knowledge of the ocean, global carbon cycle, and tipping point research is an advantage, and excellent English communication skills are required.

The position is funded for four years, with salary and employment conditions according to the standards of the University of Bern. The post offers collaboration with leading experts in climate science and tipping points, opportunities to present at national and international conferences, and publication in peer-reviewed journals.

Application details: submit one PDF including a motivation letter, CV, MSc certificates with evaluations, a link to the Master’s thesis if available, and contact details for two referees. Applications should be sent to Prof. Thomas Frölicher. Review begins on 2026-05-01 and continues until the position is filled. Preferred start date is August 2026 or by agreement.