Postdoc in Geosciences Geodynamics Glacial Erosion Modelling in University of Bergen – Norway

Summary

The University of Bergen, Department of Earth Science, is offering a 3-year Postdoctoral Research Fellow position in Geosciences, focusing on Geodynamics and Glacial Erosion Modelling. The role is part of the ICICLE project, funded by the Trond Mohn Research Foundation, aiming to understand the interaction of climate, glacial-fluvial erosion, and tectonic deformation in shaping mountain belts, particularly the Andes. The successful candidate will use 2D and 3D coupled geodynamic-glacial erosion models, publish results, and present at international conferences. Applicants need a PhD in Geodynamics, Tectonics, or Geomorphology, strong quantitative modelling skills, and excellent English. The position offers a gross annual salary of NOK 685,900 and opportunities for career development. The application deadline is November 1, 2026.

Key Facts

Department	Department of Earth Science
Position Type	Postdoctoral Research Fellow
Discipline	Geosciences
Research Area	Geodynamics, Glacial Erosion Modelling, Tectonics, Geomorphology
Degree Required	PhD within Geodynamics, Tectonics or Geomorphology, or equivalent
Experience	Background and research interest in quantitative tectonic or surface process modelling and quantitative earth science; background and research interest in geodynamics and long-term tectonics; evidence of ability to present and publish research at an international level; documented research potential; experience with thermo-mechanical modelling or surface processes modelling is an advantage.
Salary	NOK 685,900 gross annual salary
Funding	Trond Mohn Research Foundation
Contract Duration	3 years, with potential extension up to 4 years in total
Language	English
Deadline	2026-11-01
Employer Address	Muséplassen 2, Bergen, Norway

About the Project

The ICICLE project aims to understand the complex interactions between climate, glacial-fluvial erosion, and tectonic deformation over geological timescales, specifically how these processes shape mountain belts in ocean-continent subduction systems, with a focus on the Andes. The research will utilize novel coupled 2D and 3D geodynamic-glacial erosion models to quantify the evolution of subduction orogens, investigate the combined effects of tectonics and climate-driven surface processes on the Southern Andes, and analyze tectonic versus erosional controls on along-strike variability in the region. The project involves collaboration with international partners and potential research stays abroad.

Key Responsibilities

• Using 2D coupled geodynamic-glacial-fluvial erosion models to quantify the evolution of ocean-continent subduction orogens and comparing first order model results with mountain belts on Earth
• Investigating how the combination of tectonics and climate-driven surface processes shape the Southern part of the Andes using 2D coupled models
• Investigating the tectonic versus erosional controls of along-strike variability in the Southern part of the Andes with the help of 3D coupled geodynamic-glacial-fluvial erosion models
• Publication of results in peer-reviewed scientific journals
• Presentation of results at international conferences

Required Skills

• PhD within Geodynamics, Tectonics or Geomorphology (or thesis submitted)
• Background and research interest in quantitative tectonic or surface process modelling and quantitative earth science
• Background and research interest in geodynamics and long-term tectonics
• Ability to present and publish research at an international level
• Documented research potential through published research work and a clear research statement
• Ability to work independently and in a structured manner
• Ability to cooperate with others
• Excellent written and oral English skills
• Experience with thermo-mechanical modelling or surface processes modelling (advantageous)

Who Should Apply

This position is suitable for researchers with a PhD in Geodynamics, Tectonics, or Geomorphology, or those who have submitted their doctoral thesis. Ideal candidates will have a strong background and research interest in quantitative tectonic or surface process modelling, geodynamics, and long-term tectonics. Experience with thermo-mechanical or surface processes modelling is advantageous. Applicants must demonstrate the ability to publish and present research at an international level, work independently and cooperatively, and possess excellent English communication skills.

Benefits

• Professionally stimulating working environment
• Gross annual salary of NOK 685,900 (with potential for higher salary for well-qualified applicants)
• Enrolment in the Norwegian Public Service Pension Fund
• Good welfare benefits
• Opportunity to undertake qualifying work for top academic positions (if lacking teaching/other competencies)
• Potential for research stays at the University of Aarhus, Denmark and GFZ Potsdam, Germany

About the Employer

The University of Bergen (UiB) aims to be among Europe's leading universities, internationally recognized for high quality in research and education. As a societal institution, UiB contributes to sustainable and democratic development and strives to be an attractive and inclusive place to study and work. The Department of Earth Science is where this postdoctoral position is located.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the main objective of this postdoctoral position?

The primary objective of this postdoctoral position is to qualify the appointee for work in top academic positions.

What is the duration of the contract?

The position is for a fixed term of 3 years, with a possibility of extension up to a maximum of 4 years in total.

What is the salary for this position?

The gross annual salary upon appointment is NOK 685,900, with potential for a higher salary for particularly well-qualified applicants.

Are there opportunities for research stays abroad?

Yes, the work will be carried out at the University of Bergen with potential research stays at the University of Aarhus, Denmark, and at GFZ Potsdam, Germany. The position may also be extended if the appointee is granted externally financed research stays abroad.

What documents are required for the application?

Required documents include a brief motivation account, a research statement, a detailed justification of qualifications, names and contact information for two referees, CV, transcripts and diplomas, a statement confirming thesis submission (if applicable), relevant certificates, references, and a list of scientific works/publications with links.

Who should I contact for further details about the position?

For further details about the position, you can contact Dr. Sebastian Wolf at [email protected]. For HR-related questions, contact adviser Mathilde Høgalmen at [email protected].