This fully funded PhD position at Utrecht University focuses on glacier-fjord systems in North and East Greenland, addressing the urgent issue of mass loss from the Greenland Ice Sheet and its contribution to global sea level rise. The project investigates marine-terminating glaciers, where complex processes such as submarine melting, ice mélange dynamics, and iceberg calving drive glacier retreat and ice discharge into the ocean. Despite their critical role, fjord–glacier–ocean interactions are poorly understood and inadequately represented in current climate and ice sheet models.

The PhD research aims to improve the physical representation of glacier dynamics, calving laws, and ice–ocean interactions in numerical ice sheet models, thereby reducing uncertainties in future projections of Greenland's contribution to sea level rise. The position is embedded in the GLOW project (Greenland’s ice-Ocean interactions and Warming impacts), a collaboration between Utrecht University, TU Delft, and the Alfred Wegener Institute (AWI, Germany). Research visits to AWI are anticipated, offering international exposure and collaboration opportunities.

PhD candidates will participate in academic courses and assist in teaching Earth Sciences at Bachelor's and Master's levels, comprising 20% of contracted time. The Department of Physical Geography at Utrecht University is renowned for its research and education in Earth system processes, patterns, and dynamics, with access to world-class laboratories and high-performance computing facilities. The department fosters a vibrant early career community and provides a welcoming environment for new members.

Applicants should have an MSc in glaciology, (climate) physics, geophysics, applied mathematics, or a related field, with strong programming skills (Python, MATLAB, Fortran) and experience in processing large-scale datasets from remote sensing products and models. Interdisciplinary interest, teamwork, and excellent English communication skills are essential, along with a willingness to learn Dutch.

The position offers a 1-year contract, extendable to 4 years upon successful assessment, with a gross monthly salary between €3,059 and €3,881 (full-time), 8% holiday pay, 8.3% year-end bonus, pension scheme, partially paid parental leave, flexible employment terms, and professional development support. Utrecht University provides additional employee benefits, including sports, cultural activities, and customizable employment conditions.

To apply, submit your CV and motivation letter via the university's job portal by 20 March 2026. Interviews are scheduled for 30 March and 3 April, with the first round potentially online. International candidates requiring a visa/work permit should allow at least four months for processing, supported by the International Service Desk. For further information, contact Dr. Faezeh Nick or Prof. Roderik van de Wal. Utrecht University values diversity and strives for an inclusive environment where everyone can thrive.