Quantifying the role of soil erosion on phosphorus loads and eutrophication in European freshwaters University of Basel in Switzerland

Applications are open for a PhD position at the Environmental Geosciences group, University of Basel, Switzerland, within the PhD Program Environmental Sciences. The project investigates the quantitative role of soil erosion by water as a major contributor to phosphorus loads and eutrophication in European freshwater systems. While the link between erosion and eutrophication is widely assumed, there is limited quantitative evidence across spatial scales. This research aims to advance soil and water protection by improving understanding of how farming systems, land management, and erosion processes influence nutrient loading in rivers and lakes, and by identifying eutrophication hotspots across the EU.

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 the role of soil erosion and land management in 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 under the Collaborative Doctoral Partnerships programme. The place of employment is Environmental Geosciences, University of Basel, Switzerland, and the European Commission Joint Research Centre (JRC), Ispra, Italy. While employed at the JRC, the salary and benefits are those of a JRC Grantholder Category 20, with an annual gross salary around 45,000 Euro, subject to national income tax. While employed 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. Strong interest in soil erosion modelling and phosphorus-driven eutrophication is required, with experience in soil monitoring and erosion processes. Skills in GIS, spatial analysis, 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. Eligibility requires nationality of an EU Member State or associated country, 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 6th April 2026, 23:59 CET. Preferred starting date is 1 June 2026. For further information, visit the Environmental Geosciences website or contact Professor Christine Alewell. Please review the application guide for mandatory attachments.