Introduction
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.
Presentation
The Institute of Earth Surface Dynamics (IDYST) at the University of Lausanne invites applications for a postdoctoral position in geobiology, funded by an SNF project.
This interdisciplinary project combines microbiology with isotope geochemistry to study the formation, preservation, and alteration of biosignatures preserved in sedimentary pyrite. Microbial metabolisms involving sulfur are considered extremely ancient and thus may have played an important role in shaping the surface chemistry of early Earth. These ancient metabolic reactions are known to leave stable isotopic signatures in byproducts (HS- and H2S) that are subsequently involved in forming Fe-S minerals, notably pyrite. These isotopic fingerprints allow us to trace their origin and extent in modern environments. This project aims to investigate the fractionation of S isotopes in microbial cultures under controlled conditions and environmental samples.
This work will lead to a more detailed understanding of the microbial and/or environmental variables that control the isotopic composition of sulfur in sedimentary pyrite throughout the geologic record.
Job information
Expected start date in position : 01.01.2025 / to be agreed
Contract length : 2 years, non-renewable
Activity rate : 100%
Workplace : Institute of Earth Surface Dynamics, Faculty of Geosciences and Environment, University of Lausanne (Switzerland)
Your responsibilities
In your activities, you will have to :
- Prepare samples including organic and inorgani sulfur extractions
- Run analyses on EA and IRMS
- Provide some general maintenance of these instruments
- Train students in methods used in isotope geochemistry
- Assist in fieldwork of PhD students
Your qualifications
In order to complete our team, we are looking for someone with the following skills :
- Ph.D. in geochemistry, geobiology or a related field (compulsory).
- A strong background in stable isotope geochemistry with previous experience in geochemical techniques and sulfur isotope analyses (e.g. chemical extractions, HPLC, EA-IRMS) is required.
- Previous experience in microbiology would be an advantage.
- Good written and spoken English is required. A working knowledge of French is not required initially, but the successful candidate will need to acquire sufficient skills by the end of the first year to be able to assist with practical work
What the position offers you
We offer a nice working place in a multicultural, diverse and dynamic academic environment. Opportunities for professional training, a lot of activities and other benefits to discover.
Contact for further information
Any question can be directed to Prof. Johanna Marin-Carbonne (Johanna.MarinCarbonne@unil.ch) and Prof. Jasmine Berg (jasmine.berg@unil.ch).
Your application
Deadline : 15.11.2024
Please send your applications which should include (1) a detailed curriculum vitae, (2) a one page statement of research interest and (3) names and contact details of three potential references in a single pdf file. Please also mention your preferred starting date in the cover letter.
Only applications through this website will be taken into account.
We thank you for your understanding.
Additional information
UNIL is committed to equal opportunities and diversity.
www.unil.ch/egalite
UNIL supports early career researchers.
www.unil.ch/graduatecampus
