PhD in Planetary Science: Impacts, Sublimation, and Icy Body Surface Evolution University of Bern in Switzerland

The University of Bern is advertising a fully funded PhD position in Planetary Science within the Space Research and Planetary Sciences division. The project focuses on how impacts and sublimation shape the surfaces of comets and other icy bodies, with particular attention to impact craters, surface morphology, and long-term landscape evolution.

The research combines laboratory experiments on crater sublimation with numerical modelling of landscape evolution over billion-year timescales. The successful candidate will contribute to the interpretation of data from major space missions, including Rosetta, New Horizons, Lucy, Deep Impact/EPOXI, and the upcoming Comet Interceptor mission.

Applicants should hold a Master's degree in (astro-)physics, astronomy, planetary science, or a related field. The post is especially suitable for candidates with experience in numerical modelling, computational methods, or laboratory experimentation, plus programming skills such as Python, Julia, or C/C++. Strong English communication skills and the ability to work in an international, collaborative team are required.

The position is based at the University of Bern, Switzerland, starts on 01.01.2027 or by arrangement, and is 100% fixed-term. Funding is fully covered according to University of Bern salary guidelines, with access to computational and laboratory resources and opportunities for conference participation and networking.

To apply, prepare a single PDF containing a motivation letter, CV, degree documents, transcripts, and the names and email addresses of two referees. Applications received by 2026-09-30 will receive full consideration.