Publisher
source

University of Amsterdam

PhD Positions on Mountain Building and Biodiversity in the Northern Andes University of Amsterdam in Netherlands

Degree Level

PhD

Field of study

Ecology

Funding

Full funding available

Deadline

Aug 30, 2026

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Country

Netherlands

University

University of Amsterdam

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Keywords

Ecology
Environmental Science
Biology
Geography
Geomorphology
Biodiversity
Earth Science
Plate Tectonics
Landscape Evolution
Statistics
Bayesian Inversion

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About this position

Two fully funded PhD positions are available in the HUMBOLDT project at the University of Amsterdam, hosted by the Department of Ecosystem and Landscape Dynamics within the Institute for Biodiversity and Ecosystem Dynamics (IBED). The project investigates how mountain building in the Northern Andes of Colombia shaped one of the world’s most diverse biodiversity hotspots.

The advertised position here is PhD-2, focused on geological and biodiversity datasets, landscape evolution modelling, Bayesian inverse models, and paleo-topography reconstruction. The work is highly interdisciplinary and sits at the interface of Earth Science, Biology, Environmental Science, Geography, and quantitative modelling. You will compare reconstructed topography through time with biodiversity and speciation data in collaboration with ecological partners.

The project is embedded in an international research network with collaborators in Colombia, Germany, and Switzerland. The broader team will present at conferences, publish in peer-reviewed journals, contribute to teaching, and supervise BSc and MSc students. The department also offers a strong research environment with high-performance computing and computational support.

Eligibility highlights: applicants should have a MSc in Earth Sciences, Physical Geography, or a related field. For PhD-2, a strong quantitative background and experience with Python, R, or MATLAB are expected. Strong English communication skills and motivation for interdisciplinary research are important. The post is based at the University of Amsterdam in the Netherlands.

Funding: the position is fully funded for 4 years (initial 18-month contract, then extension after positive evaluation). Salary ranges from €3,059 gross per month in year 1 to €3,881 in the final year, plus holiday allowance and year-end bonus. The post also mentions the Dutch 30% ruling may apply to non-Dutch applicants.

Application window: applications close on 30 August 2026. Apply online via the vacancy page and include a CV, motivation letter, publication list if applicable, and contact details for two referees.

Funding details

Full funding including tuition fees and living expenses is available for this position. The scholarship covers all educational costs and provides a monthly stipend.

How to apply

Please submit your application including a cover letter, CV, academic transcripts, and contact information for two references. Applications should be sent via the online portal before the deadline.

More information can be found here

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