Postdoc in Isotope Biogeochemistry
Start Date
01.12.2026; open for discussion
Employment Relationship
80-100%, fixed-term until 31.10.2028
Institution / Workplace
Physics Institute, Climate and Environmental Physics
Bern
With us, you create value.
For yourself and for society.
For yourself and for society.
About this position
Isotope ratio measurements are a key part of our efforts to understand sources and sinks of the major greenhouse gases CO2, CH4 and N2O. Harmonised and standardised field calibration and measurement methods are required to support isotopic measurements in networks such as the Integrated Carbon Observation System (ICOS). The METHIR project is a major European effort aimed at improving field isotope ratio measurements harmonisation and calibration, with direct linkages to current measurement networks.Key responsibilities
- Continue development of a flask sampling system for isotopic measurements of N2O from background sites, including testing at the Jungfraujoch.
- Measurement of N2O isotopic composition in flask samples from Jungfraujoch and other sites using the "RAPTOR-QCLAS" system.
- Collaboration with Swiss and international research groups to improve the N2O isotopic record from preindustrial to present day times, with a focus on calibration traceability.
- Data management and documentation of processes
- Present research findings at national and international conferences, contribute to project meetings and reports, and publish in peer-reviewed journals.
Your profile
- PhD degree in Climate Science, Chemistry, Physics or a related field.
- Strong skills in analytics and measurements techniques; in particular, in spectroscopic and IRMS measurements of trace gases.
- Proficiency in programming, particularly with Python or R.
- Excellent verbal and written communication skills in English.
Your Benefits
- Chance to work in a major European project and develop skills in both measurement techniques and data analysis.
- Strong research infrastructure and international network
- Collaborative environment and ambitious team
- International reputation
Working at the University of Bern
The University of Bern not only offers exciting tasks but also an environment that actively promotes development, diversity, and equal opportunities. Discover what makes us stand out as an employer and how you can grow with us.
Application and Contact
Please send your application including motivation letter, CV, and contact details for two referees as a single pdf. We will begin assessing applications on 20.06.2026.