PhD and Postdoctoral Positions in Deep Earthquake Research; ERC SODA - University of Padova

Organisation/Company Università degli Studi di Padova Department Dipartimento di Geoscienze Research Field Geosciences Researcher Profile First Stage Researcher (R1) Positions Postdoc Positions Country Italy Final date to receive applications 8 Dec 2026 - 12:00 (UTC) Type of Contract Temporary Job Status Full-time Is the job funded through the EU Research Framework Programme? Horizon 2020 Is the Job related to staff position within a Research Infrastructure?

No

Within the framework of the ERC Consolidator Grant SODA
, we are seeking highly motivated PhD students and postdoctoral researchers to investigate deep earthquakes using state-of-the-art seismological approaches and thermomechanical modelling. This project offers a unique opportunity to contribute to research at the interface between geophysics, computational science, and earthquake physics.

At this stage, applications are particularly encouraged for the following two postdoctoral positions:

• Postdoctoral Researcher in Thermomechanical Modelling
  Candidates should have a strong background in numerical or analytical modelling of thermomechanical processes relevant to lithospheric and mantle dynamics.
• Postdoctoral Researcher in Global Seismological Data Analysis
  Candidates should have expertise in large-scale seismic data processing and analysis, ideally with experience in machine learning, advanced computational methods, GPU acceleration, and tensor-based techniques.

The starting dates for these positions are flexible, with the possibility to begin as early as 1 September 2026
. We will make every effort to accommodate excellent candidates.

If you know of strong and motivated potential applicants, either at the postdoctoral or PhD level, please feel free to encourage them to contact me directly at piero.poli .

Additional positions will be opened at later stages of the project, and earlier start dates may be considered for particularly outstanding candidates.

About the Research Environment

The Department of Geosciences at the University of Padova offers a vibrant, dynamic, and collaborative research environment
, bringing together a young and international community of scientists working across seismology, geophysics, geodynamics, geology, and environmental sciences. The department is strongly committed to interdisciplinary research and provides access to excellent computational facilities, state-of-the-art laboratories, and a lively schedule of seminars, workshops, and group activities.

As one of Europe’s oldest and most prestigious universities (founded in 1222), the University of Padova combines a long academic tradition with a forward-looking approach to innovation and scientific excellence. Padova is a thriving university city with a high quality of life, an active cultural scene, and a welcoming atmosphere for students and researchers from around the world.

It is an inspiring place to develop new ideas, advance your career, and engage in cutting‑edge research at the frontier of Earth science.