The University of Basel invites applications for a PhD fellowship in Environmental Geosciences, focusing on the quantification of soil erosion's role in phosphorus loads and eutrophication in European freshwaters. This position is part of the PhD Program in Environmental Sciences and is available from June 2026 or later. The research addresses a critical environmental challenge: soil erosion by water is a major source of phosphorus, contributing to eutrophication in rivers and lakes across Europe. Despite widespread assumptions about the erosion–eutrophication link, quantitative evidence across spatial scales remains limited, and this project aims to fill that gap.

The PhD project will develop integrated and reproducible approaches to quantify and reduce soil- and sediment-driven nutrient pollution in European catchments. It will assess how soil erosion and land management influence phosphorus transport and eutrophication, using monitoring data from the EU Water Framework Directive to calibrate and validate advanced sediment routing and modelling approaches. The research will also design a European-scale turbidity and sediment monitoring framework, combining in situ observations and satellite remote sensing. The project directly supports EU policies including the Common Agricultural Policy, Soil Monitoring Law, and Nitrates Directive, and contributes to the European Green Transition.

This is an international collaboration between the University of Basel and the European Commission's Joint Research Centre (JRC) under the Collaborative Doctoral Partnerships programme. The place of employment will be both Environmental Geosciences at the University of Basel, Switzerland, and the JRC in Ispra, Italy. While employed at the JRC, the annual gross salary will be around 45,000 Euro (Grantholder Category 20), subject to national income tax. At the University of Basel, salary and benefits follow university rules.

Applicants must hold or be close to completing a Master's degree in ecology, soil science, agricultural, environmental or related sciences. A strong interest in soil erosion modelling and phosphorus-driven eutrophication is required, with experience in soil monitoring and erosion processes preferred. Skills in GIS, spatial analysis of large scale data, modelling, remote sensing, and programming (R or Python) are desirable. Candidates must be fluent in English, able to work independently, communicate effectively, and be highly motivated and results oriented. Eligibility requires nationality of a Member State of the EU or a country associated to the EU Research Framework Programme, or residency in an EU Member State for at least five years prior to contract start.

To apply, submit your complete application documents, including a motivation letter, statement of research and teaching interests, CV, and contact details of at least two references via the online recruiting platform. Applications via email will not be accepted. The application deadline is 26 March 2026, 23:59 CET. For further information, visit the Environmental Geosciences website or contact Professor Christine Alewell at [email protected]. Please review the application guide for mandatory attachments and requirements.