PhD Positions in Quaternary Palaeoecology: Chironomid-Based Climate Reconstruction University of Basel in Switzerland

The Department of Environmental Sciences at the University of Basel is offering two PhD positions within the Geoecology research group, focusing on Quaternary palaeoecology and climate reconstruction. The research is part of the interdisciplinary SNF project ECO-ICE, which aims to answer key questions about the survival and expansion of warm-adapted ecosystems and organisms during and after the Quaternary Ice Ages. Candidates will investigate refugial areas, their environmental characteristics, and the dynamics of postglacial expansion under warming climates.

The project involves collecting, analyzing, and interpreting new lake sediment records from key refugial localities covering the Last Glacial Maximum. Successful candidates will develop high-resolution palaeoecological records of aquatic invertebrate assemblage change, with a particular focus on chironomid (non-biting midge) larvae. These remains serve as sensitive temperature indicators, enabling quantitative reconstructions of glacial temperatures using multivariate statistical methods. Results will be compared with other temperature reconstructions, palaeobotanical records, and vegetation modelling scenarios developed by project partners.

This research is essential for developing new palaeoclimate scenarios for ice age Europe, understanding ice age ecosystems, and reassessing the refugia and postglacial expansion of temperate trees in Europe. The positions offer an opportunity to work in a highly interdisciplinary environment, combining biogeography, palaeoecology, and climate science. The University of Basel provides access to state-of-the-art facilities and collaboration with leading experts in the field.

Applicants are encouraged to apply online via the University of Basel job portal. Please follow the instructions provided in the application link and prepare your materials as requested. For further information, contact the Department of Environmental Sciences.