Research scientist position in prebiotic inorganic geochemistry

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. The hosting laboratory is part of the Earth Science Institute within the Faculty of Geosciences at UNIL.

The National Centre of Competence in Research NCCR Genesisis a research infrastructure project funded by SNSF focussingon exploring the emergence of life in the Universe. This interdisciplinary research infrastructurebringstogetherphysicists, earth and planetary scientists, chemistsandbiologiststo understand the conditions and the mechanisms that enable life to emerge. D eveloping reliable methods to detect reliable traces of life (biosignatures) – whether through remote sensing or direct onsite measurements – requires significant innovation.

These challenges demand close collaboration across physics, biology, chemistry andthe earth sciences. NCCR Genesis does not aim to provide answers in all fields, but to drive innovative research and achieve decisive progress.

NCCR Genesis is deeply committed to equality, diversity and inclusion. Our aim is to cultivate a respectful and fair work culture with equal access to professional development and support for all.

We strongly encourage applications from under-represented groups.

NCCR Genesis is seeking a research scientist to coordinate the research activites conducted at the FGSE in collaboration with EPFL. Your responsibilities will include coordinating research across the different projects, co-supervising PhD and MSc students, contributing to the scientific training of the team and develop ping and maintening analytical protocols and research infrastructure. Part of the position will be dedicated to your own personnal research, including the publication and presentation of the scientific results.

The research focuses on the origin of Life, with particular emphasis on tracing interactions between the atmosphere and lithosphere through volatile elements; investigating non-equilibrium dynamics in prebiotic multiphase environments; and exploring the geochemical origins of life.

Expected Start in position 01.11.2026 or upon mutual agreement

Contract length : 2+2 years (maximum 4 years)

Workplace :
Institute of Earth Sciences, GENESIS Team - University of Lausanne

PhD's degree in Geochemistry, Geology, Earth Sciences, or related field

Strong background in geochemistry, sedimentology, or geobiology

Experience with isotope and geochemical analysis preferred

Commitment to research based on experiental approaches

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.

Deadline : applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis as soon as they are received