2 PhD positions in Glacier Geophysics

UNIL is a leading international teaching and research institution, with over 5,000 employees and 17,000 students split between its Dorigny campus, CHUV and Epalinges. As an employer, UNIL encourages excellence, individual recognition and responsibility.

The Institute of Earth Sciences at the University of Lausanne is seeking to fill two PhD positions in a project recently funded by the Swiss National Science Foundation. The project, entitled “Drone Radar for Alpine Glacier ObservatioN (DRAGON)” builds on our recent achievements in high-resolution, high-density, 3D and 4D surveying of alpine glaciers using a newly developed drone-based ground-penetrating radar (GPR) system.

PhD 1 will focus on characterizing and monitoring steep, inaccessible glaciers to improve understanding of the physical processes driving ice avalanches. This role involves developing innovative 3D and 4D GPR acquisition and processing strategies to obtain detailed data on glacier bedrock topography, internal ice movement, crevasse networks, ice thermal regimes, and water distribution.

PhD 2 will focus on using 4D GPR to map and monitor the englacial and subglacial hydrological networks in alpine glaciers, capturing seasonal and interannual changes in drainage systems. This role involves the development of advanced data processing and interpretation techniques, along with integration of photogrammetry, dye tracing, and other measurements, to enhance understanding of glacier hydrology and its influence on glacier dynamics under changing climate conditions.

Both PhD positions offer opportunities for collaboration with leading research teams in Switzerland and abroad.

Expected starting date:  01.04.2025, or a later date to be agreed upon

Contract length:  initial contract of 1 year, renewable up to 4 years

Activity rate:  100%

Workplace:  Institute of Earth Sciences, Faculty of Geosciences and Environment, University of Lausanne

Work independently and in collaboration with the other PhD student and postdocs to advance research within the scope of a doctoral thesis. Contribute up to 15% towards teaching and other institutional activities.

Successful candidates will have a strong quantitative and computer programming background, and hold a Master’s degree in geophysics, physics, engineering, or a related quantitative discipline. A commitment to conducting multi-day fieldwork in remote and challenging alpine environments is essential. Previous experience with applied geophysical methods, notably GPR and/or seismic, is an advantage.

An advanced level in English is essential, and a working knowledge of French is an advantage.

It is expected that the successful applicant will have a valid European driving license when starting the position or shortly thereafter.

You will join an institute of approximately 160 members dedicated to research and teaching in the Earth Sciences. We offer excellent working conditions in a multicultural, diverse, and dynamic academic environment, with many opportunities for professional training and networking. Members of our institute have access to a wide range of state-of-the-art equipment and facilities, including GPU- and CPU-based cluster computing resources, numerous geophysical field instruments, LiDAR instruments, and drones. The region around Lausanne of one of great natural beauty providing a high quality of life and a multitude of outdoor and cultural activities.

Prof. James Irving (Write an email).

Deadline:  15.01.2025

Your application should include (in PDF format):

•     a cover letter describing your overall motivation for one of the positions
•     your CV
•     copies of your university diplomas including grades
•     the names and contact details of three potential referees

Only applications through this website will be taken into account.

We thank you for your understanding.

UNIL is committed to:

•    equality, diversity and inclusion within its community;

•    ensuring an open and respectful environment that is conducive to personal development;

•    offering working conditions that facilitate work-life balance;

•    supporting early career researchers.

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