Postdoctoral Position in Bioinformatics and Plant Paleogenomics

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Start Date

01.03.2027 or by arrangement

Employment Relationship

fixed-term

Institution / Workplace

Institute of Plant Sciences

Postdoctoral Position in Bioinformatics and Plant Paleogenomics

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 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.

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.

Your Benefits

Strong research infrastructure and international network

Healthy corporate culture and good working atmosphere

Collaborative environment and ambitious team

High degree of creative freedom in an academic setting

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

Dr. Prof. Christoph Schwörer, [email protected]

Questions about the position?

Dr. Prof. Christoph Schwörer, [email protected]

Questions about the application?

Dr. Prof. Christoph Schwörer