The University of Bern is seeking a highly motivated postdoctoral researcher for a four-year position in Climate Science, Chemistry, Physics or a related field.
The Integrated Carbon Observation System (ICOS) is dedicated to producing standardized, high-precision, long-term observations to advance our understanding of global biogeochemical cycles and to provide essential information on greenhouse gases. We are seeking a highly motivated postdoctoral researcher to manage the University of Bern’s contributions to the Swiss branch of ICOS (ICOS-CH) at the Jungfraujoch high altitude research station. As a Class 1 Atmospheric Station and the highest station in the ICOS network, Jungfraujoch offers a unique opportunity to contribute to cutting-edge climate research.
ICOS data streams at Jungfraujoch encompass measurements of greenhouse gases (CO₂, CH₄, N₂O) performed both in situ and via flask sampling, meteorological data, isotopic analyses (¹³C-CO₂, ¹⁴C-CO₂), and background atmospheric components such as O₂:N₂:Ar ratios. The selected postdoc will collaborate with technical staff to maintain the quality of these ongoing measurement time series, and will lead the interpretation, dissemination, and publication of findings. Additional responsibilities may include supervising student theses, teaching, outreach, and fostering innovation within the ICOS network.

Key Responsibilities:

• Perform regular maintenance, calibration, and servicing of ICOS flask sampling, online and flask-based CO₂ measurement systems, and O₂:N₂:Ar ratio measurements at the Jungfraujoch research station and the East Ridge Laboratory.
• Analyze and visualize data, ensuring quality control and timely submission to ICOS databases.
• Present research findings at national and international conferences, contribute to project 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.
• Proficiency in programming, particularly with Python or R.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills in English; proficiency in spoken German is advantageous.

What we offer
This project offers the opportunity to work closely with experts from across Switzerland within ICOS-CH, and to participate in the wider ICOS network through ICOS science meetings, conferences and events. The postdoc will be based in the Division of Climate and Environmental Physics at the University of Bern, providing an inspiring research atmosphere and contact with experts in diverse fields including paleoclimate, ice core research, and climate and ocean modelling. The postdoc will moreover be part of the Oeschger Center for Climate Change Research, a network of climate scientists across institutes and departments at the University of Bern.
Application and contact
Please submit your application including letter of motivation, CV, relevant certificates and contact details for 3 referees electronically as one pdf-file. Applications will be assessed on a rolling basis beginning 14.02.25.
For further information please contact Dr. Eliza Harris (eliza.harris@unibe.ch).
The envisaged starting date is 1st of June 2025 or upon agreement. Employment conditions and remuneration are in accordance with the standards of the University of Bern, Switzerland. The initial appointment is for four years, with the potential for extension.
www.karriere.unibe.ch
Rechtliche Hinweise

• Perform regular maintenance, calibration, and servicing of ICOS flask sampling, online and flask-based CO₂ measurement systems, and O₂:N₂:Ar ratio measurements at the Jungfraujoch research station and the East Ridge Laboratory.
• Analyze and visualize data, ensuring quality control and timely submission to ICOS databases.
• Present research findings at national and international conferences, contribute to project reports, and publish in peer-reviewed journals