Sarah Koch

The Exercise and Environmental Physiology Lab at the Department of Sport, Exercise and Health, University of Basel, invites applications for a fixed-term postdoctoral researcher position (80-100% FTE) for 3.5 years, starting September 1st, 2026 or as soon as possible. Supervised by Prof. Dr. Sarah Koch, this role is closely linked to ongoing and future research projects within the group. The lab's primary research focus is on understanding how physical activity and various socio-environmental exposures—such as air pollution, ambient heat, green and blue spaces, gender, and socioeconomic status—affect health across the lifecourse. The group also investigates how urban and rural environments can be adapted to promote physically active lifestyles in a changing climate. Potential research topics include the effects of environmental factors on cardiorespiratory and metabolic health in older adults with chronic respiratory disease and during pregnancy, as well as the impact of meteorological factors on physical activity and gait, assessed by wearable sensors like accelerometers. The group integrates quantitative, qualitative, and participatory research methods, emphasizing the translation of research findings through collaboration with community, patient, and city partners. The postdoctoral researcher will conduct independent research within the group's thematic areas, publish scientific articles in international peer-reviewed journals, coordinate multi-center international projects, implement creative science communication measures, participate in conferences, support and potentially lead third-party funding acquisition, supervise Bachelor's and Master's theses, train study personnel, and optionally support teaching activities. The position offers opportunities for academic development, including habilitation, access to advanced exercise physiology laboratories, participation in continuing education, flexible work hours, and leadership skill development. Applicants must hold a PhD in sport or health sciences, physiology, (environmental) epidemiology, public health, bioinformatics, or a related field, with evidence of relevant publications. Required skills include experience in physical activity data acquisition (wearable devices or questionnaires), advanced data processing and analysis, statistical expertise (R, Stata), and motivation for collaborative and independent work. Experience with time-series analyses, GIS techniques, qualitative and participatory methods, and outreach is advantageous. Candidates should have a very good command of English and ideally basic German (A2 level), and knowledge of Good Clinical Practice or willingness to train further. Applications must be submitted by June 30th, 2026 via the University of Basel's online recruiting tool. Required documents include a possible starting date, letter of motivation, CV with publication list, and project descriptions. For further information, contact Prof. Dr. Sarah Koch at [email protected]. More details about the department and research group can be found at Department for Sport, Exercise, and Health and Exercise and Environmental Physiology Group .