Paul Tackley

PhD position in Planetary Science on the coupled interior–atmosphere evolution of temperate rocky planets is available at the University of Geneva in collaboration with ETH Zürich , Switzerland. The project is funded by NCCR Genesis (SNSF) for 4 years and starts in September 2026 . The salary is listed at approximately 55,000 CHF/year gross . Research topics include climate modeling of temperate/hot rocky planets, planetary interior evolution , mantle convection , interior–atmosphere interactions , exoplanet science , planetary habitability , and coupling global climate models with geodynamic models . The successful candidate will work with the Exoplanet Team at Geneva Observatory and collaborate with researchers at ETH Zürich, including work on the StagYY geodynamic code and the G-PCM climate model. The research environment is part of the broader NCCR Genesis network studying the origin of life and planetary evolution. Eligibility highlights: an MSc in Astronomy, Astrophysics, Planetary Science, Geophysics, or a related field ; strong programming skills; and preferred experience with 3D climate models and/or solid convection modeling . Teamwork and research collaboration skills are also emphasized. Applications are reviewed starting 15 June 2026 and will remain open until the position is filled. To apply, prepare a single PDF containing a CV , MSc details (courses, grades, thesis topic), and a cover letter explaining motivation and relevant skills. Include the names of two referees; recommendation letters should be sent directly by the referees to the supervisors.

Fully funded PhD opportunity in Planetary Science , Geophysics , Astronomy , and Earth Sciences at the University of Geneva in collaboration with ETH Zürich . The project is part of the NCCR Genesis Programme and focuses on how rocky planets evolve over billions of years, especially how a planet’s interior and atmosphere interact over deep time. The research will involve advanced numerical modelling of coupled planetary evolution, integrating the G-PCM climate model with the StagYY mantle convection code . The work bridges climate science, geophysics, exoplanet research, geodynamics, and computational geophysics, and includes regular collaboration with ETH Zürich’s Geophysical Fluid Dynamics Group. Supervision is by Prof. Emeline Bolmont and Prof. Paul Tackley . The position is based at the Geneva Observatory in Switzerland, with regular visits to ETH Zürich. Funding is provided for a 4-year PhD with a gross salary of about 55,000 CHF/year . This is a fully funded doctoral opening rather than a scholarship programme. Eligibility: applicants should hold or be close to completing an MSc in Astronomy, Astrophysics, Planetary Science, Geophysics, Earth Sciences, or a related field. Strong programming skills are essential. Application materials mentioned in the post include a 2-page CV , MSc details , a one-page motivation letter , and two referees whose recommendation letters are sent separately. Applications are reviewed until the position is filled, so candidates should apply promptly.