PhD position NCCR Genesis: combining remote and in-situ life detection techniques

PhD position NCCR Genesis: combining remote and in-situ life detection techniques

UniBE is ambitious.
With us, you deliver top performance and test your skills against the best.

We are looking for a creative and motivated candidate, a team player, with a MSc degree in physics, chemistry, or biology. Willingness to learn microbiological techniques is essential; prior wet lab experience is an asset. No prior expertise in optics is required; training will be provided, though a basic understanding of polarization, vacuum technology and/or mass spectrometry is a plus. Excellent oral and written skills in English are a requirement.

The position is based at the Centre for Space and Habitability, which strives to investige key questions in space sciences through interdisciplinarity. The team collaborates tightly with various national and international partners. This includes for example the Microbiology Laboratory of the University of Neuchâtel where the lab measurements on microorganisms will be conducted. Laser-based mass spectrometry on organics will be conducted at the Space Research and Planetary Sciences division that are closely collaborating with colleagues at NASA Ames Research Center, USA.

The city of Bern is well known for its quality of life, cultural richness and beautiful surroundings offering plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities.

The position is funded for a period of 4 years. The annual gross salary is competitive, ranging from CHF 50,042 in the first year to CHF 53,263 in the final year. Ample funding for travel, publications and computing resources will be available. Child allowance and maternity/paternity leave are offered. Assistance with visa procedures is available for international candidates. Additionally, the CSH offers career advice, mentorship, and teaching opportunities.

International reputation

Individual career support

Interdisciplinary collaboration

Strong research infrastructure and international network

1 February 2027

Full-time

Temporary

Temporary

University

info.csh@unibe.ch