Postdoctoral Position in Bioinformatics and Plant Paleogenomics — Universität Bern
- Location
- Bern
- Contract
- Full-time
- Posted
- 17 days ago
Full description
UniBE is interconnected. With us, you're part of an international community and benefit from interdisciplinary collaboration.
Tasks &
- Requirements
We are looking for a motivated postdoctoral researcher who will lead the bioinformatic analyses of ancient plant DNA datasets. You will develop and adapt advanced bioinformatic tools and pipelines for individual-based ancient DNA (aDNA) data, as well as sedimentary ancient DNA (sedaDNA) metabarcoding and metagenomics. You will use these approaches to reconstruct changes in genetic diversity through time and investigate the genetic basis of adaptation to past environmental change. Furthermore, you will integrate paleogenomic data with population genetic models to test competing hypotheses about postglacial range expansion and demographic change in European tree species. You will collaborate with an interdisciplinary research team, provide scientific guidance to PhD and MSc students, present your findings at international conferences, and publish your results in leading peer-reviewed scientific journals. You hold a PhD in bioinformatics, computational biology, biology, or a related discipline and have a strong interest in applying computational methods to evolutionary and ecological questions. Substantial experience in bioinformatics, next-generation sequencing (NGS) data analysis, and ancient DNA research is essential. Programming skills (e.g. Python and R), as well as experience with command-line tools and high-performance computing clusters are expected. Knowledge of population genetics, paleoecology, molecular biology, or vegetation ecology is an asset. You approach your work with precision, creativity, and reliability, and have strong analytical, organizational, and communication skills. A proven track record of scientific publications and an excellent command of English are expected.
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- We offer
An exciting opportunity to work at the interface of bioinformatics, paleogenomics, and climate change research in a dynamic, international, and interdisciplinary research team at the University of Bern. Employment conditions follow the standards of the University of Bern and the SNSF. Please submit a motivation letter, CV with publication list, academic transcripts, PhD diploma, and a reference letter and the contact details of your PhD supervisor as a single PDF file to Prof. Christoph Schwörer: [email protected]. The application deadline is 1 December 2026. Applications received after this date may be considered until the position is filled. The University of Bern is committed to diversity and inclusion and encourages applications from candidates of all backgrounds. For further information contact Prof. Christoph Schwörer at the mentioned email. Strong research infrastructure and international network Application and Contact With us, you create value. For yourself and for society. Within the framework of the SNSF Consolidator grant project ARIaDNA, a two-year postdoctoral research position is available at the Institute of Plant Sciences and the Oeschger Centre for Climate Change Research at the University of Bern, Switzerland . Paleogenomics & Vegetation Modelling. ARIaDNA aims to reconstruct how key European tree species responded to past environmental changes by analysing genetic data from ancient plant remains preserved in lake sediment archives. By combining paleogenomics, paleoecology, population genetics, and vegetation modelling, the project will generate new insights into postglacial forest dynamics, changes in genetic diversity, and climate adaptation, which will inform the conservation of alpine ecosystems under future climate change. Tasks &
- Requirements
- We offer
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Your Benefits
Healthy corporate culture and good working atmosphere Collaborative environment and ambitious team High degree of creative freedom in an academic setting Other benefits Your Benefits
Working at the University of Bern
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Questions about this listing
What salary does Universität Bern offer for this role?
The original listing does not state a salary. Our estimate for this role and sector in Bern is CHF 85'000 - 119'000 gross per year — an estimate, not a figure communicated by Universität Bern. The calculator on this site converts a gross salary into your actual net take-home once cross-border tax and social contributions are applied.
Is this a full-time role, and what type of contract does Universität Bern offer?
This listing is a full-time position. The contract type shown here comes directly from the employer's original posting; always confirm exact hours, notice period and probation length with Universität Bern during the application process, since these details can vary by role even within the same contract category.
Do I need a cross-border work permit for a role in Bern?
EU/EFTA citizens living in an EU/EFTA state can apply for a G permit and can work anywhere in Switzerland: border zones no longer apply to them, and they must return home at least once a week. The Swiss employer files the request with Canton Bern's migration office after the contract is signed. Processing times vary by canton, so confirm the specifics with Bern's cantonal migration office or with HR during the application.
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