Postdoctoral position in geophysical characterization of ancient Roman mole structures

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.

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Presentation

The international and transdisciplinary TRANS-PORTUS project will combine the study of archaeological structures, harbour deposits, and their urban and environmental context to reconstruct the trajectories of ancient Roman harbours.

The postdoctoral scientist will perform geophysical logging, surface-to-borehole and surface-based geophysics (primarily high-resolution seismic reflection and ground-penetrating radar) within and in the vicinity of mole structures that will be cored primarily at Portus located close to Rome, but also at Civitavecchia.

The main aim is to better constrain the internal stratigraphy of the mole structures and their geometries, as well as aiding with the interpretation of the cores. The geophysical data will be processed and analyzed using both standard and innovative approaches to be developed within the project. Research focusing on the geophysical results will be published in applied geophysics and archaeo-geophysical journals, while the wider implications will be integrated in collaborative publications related to maritime archaeology.

Job information

Expected start date in position : 01.09.2026 or upon agreement

Contract length : 1 year, renewable for 1 addtional year

Activity rate : 100 %

Workplace : Institute of Earth Sciences, Faculty of Geosciences and Environment, University of Lausanne 

Your responsibilities

100% of the engagement will be dedicated to research. 

Your qualifications

-PhD in geophysics or a related field;

-Skills in geophysical field work, modelling and inversion;

-Experience with high-resolution seismic reflection or ground-penetrating radar methods is an advantage;

-Strong oral and written communication skills;

-High-level command in English is expected, while working knowledge of Italian or French is an advantage;

-A valid driving license for Switzerland and Italy is essential;

-Willingness to occasionally perform fieldwork during night and weekends;

-Interest in archaeology and collaborative research across scientific disciplines.

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.

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Contact for further information

Prof. Niklas Linde (E-Mail schreiben).

Your application

Deadline : 01.06.2026

Please provide the following documents in PDF format:

- A cover letter stating your overall motivation and fit to the position;
- Your CV, including a list of publications;
- A copy of your diplomas;
- Names and contact details of three potential refereesOnly applications through this website will be taken into account.

We thank you for your understanding.

Additional information

UNIL is committed to:
•    equality, diversity and inclusion within its community;
•    ensuring an open and respectful environment that is conducive to personal development;
•    offering working conditions that facilitate work-life balance;
•    supporting early career researchers.

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