[ES_JOBS_NET] Paleoecologist/Paleobotanist/Archaeologist: Fully funded Ph.D. position in Switzerland

[Jed O. Kaplan]

The new ARVE Group of the Institute of Earth Surface Dynamics at the University of Lausanne, Switzerland is currently searching for a Ph.D. student for the project:

"Reconstructing preindustrial land cover change in Africa” 

We are looking for a motivated student with a background in palaeo-environmental science to join the ARVE interdisciplinary research team at the University of Lausanne in Switzerland. This is a fully funded Ph.D. research studentship for up to four years with an attractive living-wage salary. The general research focus of the team is on the role of humans in modifying the Earth's land surface and biogeochemistry. Our research encompasses soil science, environmental physics, biogeochemistry, hydrology, land cover and climate reconstruction, climate modelling and remote sensing.

The doctoral project will be defined in collaboration with the student, but will be aimed at reconstructing land-cover changes across Africa during the mid-late Holocene.  This will mainly involve the compilation and computer-based analysis of large spatial datasets, including palaeoecological and archaeological data. Research aims include the role of early human societies in determining land-cover change, and particularly the impact of the Iron Age transition in Africa. A background in palynology, ecosystems and archaeology is desirable, especially in relation to Africa, together with a working knowledge of GIS and spatial analysis. Much of the work will be computer-based, and the applicant will need a general competency and willingness to work with computers.
The working language in the group is English, the doctoral dissertation will be written in English, and fluency in both written and spoken English is essential. French is the language of the University and of the local region. Students of all nationalities will be considered and residence permits for non-Swiss students can be arranged.

For more information please contact Dr Basil Davis (basil.davis at unil.ch), or Prof Jed Kaplan (jed.kaplan at unil.ch)
The deadline for applications is the 1st May 2014. Applications may still be considered after this date if the position remains unfilled. The expected start date is September 2014. To apply please email a covering letter detailing your skills and motivation for the post, together with your CV to basil.davis at unil.ch. 

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Prof. Jed O. Kaplan (jed.kaplan at unil.ch)
Institute of Earth Surface Dynamics
University of Lausanne
Geopolis, Quartier Mouline
1015 Lausanne, Switzerland