Dottorando / Dottoranda in processi orogenici alpini — SUPSI / DTI

Role overview

# PhD student / PhD student in Alpine orogenic processes

The University of Applied Sciences and Arts of Italian Switzerland (SUPSI) is offering a position of

PhD student in Alpine orogenic processes

at the

Institute of Earth Sciences

of the Environment, Construction and Design Department based in Mendrisio. 100% occupancy rate for 4 years. Entry into service 01.09.2026 or date to be agreed.

Responsibilities and activities

The candidate will have the opportunity to take part in an engaging and stimulating interdisciplinary research project in the field of Alpine geology by integrating terrain and analytical data with three-dimensional geological models. In particular:

• Through geological cartography, it collects, processes and interprets terrain data in specific areas on the eastern edge of the Lepontine cathedral.
• Describes thin sections of rocks and reconstructs metamorphic processes.
• Performs geochemical analyzes with XRF, Electron Probe Micro-Analyser, LA-ICPMS and possibly with SIMS methods.
• Use software to calculate phase diagrams and thermodynamic data (Perplex), to simulate the diffusion of elements in metamorphic minerals (geospeedometry) and, as needed, to model tectonic structures.
• Collaborates closely with researchers responsible for the thermomechanical modeling of the Alpine mountain range in 3D.
• Collaborates with IST in applied research and geological mapping projects.

Requirements

We are looking for a person with a solid academic background, motivated to work in a research and development context. The following are required:

• University Master's degree in geology, possibly with specialization in structural geology or metamorphic petrology.
• Excellent knowledge of Alpine regional geology, metamorphic petrology and thermodynamics.
• Experience in geological surveying and mapping.
• Ability to work independently while respecting established deadlines.
• Ability to move in high mountain alpine environments.
• Availability to travel even for long periods within the project and flexibility to achieve the objectives.
• Good knowledge of English and possibly national languages ​​is required.

SUPSI offers

SUPSI offers a stimulating and interdisciplinary research environment, with opportunities for professional growth and international collaborations. In particular:

• Inclusion in a recognized research group in the fields of Alpine geology, tectonics and geodynamics.
• Collaborations with Swiss universities, in particular with the University of Lausanne and with various European academic partners.
• Involvement in national geological mapping programs promoted by swisstopo.
• Academic context oriented towards both basic and applied research, with potential opportunities for projects in collaboration with public and private bodies.
• Salary according to the salary scale for PhD students of the Swiss National Science Foundation (SNSF).

Application

Additional information can be requested from Philip Schenker . Only applications submitted by

05 July 2026

via the dedicated application form. Incomplete applications, sent to other addresses or after the established deadline, will not be considered. When applying online, you are required to send:

• Letter of presentation/motivation
• Curriculum vitae with list of publications (if any) and link to the Master's thesis
• Certificates of exams taken with grades in the Bachelor and Master courses

Any additional documentation (criminal record, copy of an identity document) may be requested later.