The University of Applied Sciences and Arts Western Switzerland Valais (HES-SO Valais-Wallis) has over 2,800 students. Through research and innovation, it contributes to economic and social development and the creation of jobs. The new Energypolis campus, home to the School of Engineering, EPFL and modern start-ups, is an innovative ecosystem for education and research. Why not come and join us?
The School of Engineering invites applications for a:
PhD student in Climate science (100%)
Project description
The 4-year Swiss National Science Foundation (SNSF) CALISE project aims at enhancing societal resilience to severe weather events by investigating the link between atmospheric electrical activity and severe storms across three distinct latitudes. You will be expected to analyse historical and present meteorological data and to conduct experimental work at the lightning measurement station installed at the Säntis tower in Appenzell, Switzerland. You will be affiliated with the Graduate School of Climate Sciences of the University of Bern, Faculty of Science, under the joint supervision of Prof. Dr. Olivia Romppainen-Martius and Prof. Dr. Davide Pavanello
Your profile
Background
MS degree in Electrical Engineering, Physics, Atmospheric Science or equivalent.
Strong interest in Atmospheric Science or Meteorology.
Previous experience in field work (measurement campaigns) is a plus.
IT skills
Capable of analysing large datasets obtained from remote sensing.
Experience with time-series analysis, pattern recognition, and machine learning is a plus.
Coding experience (MATLAB, Python, …).
Communication skills
Fluent in English. Spanish and/or German are an asset.
Can communicate complex concepts to scientific and non-scientific audiences.
Can write peer-reviewed papers, conference abstracts, and project reports.
Soft skills
Strong motivation, self-initiative and curiosity, integrity.
Problem-solving attitude.
Interdisciplinarity (can work across meteorology, physics, engineering, and social sciences).
What we offer
Top-level academic experience, international team, education, field work, travel.
Employment : 100%
Place of work : Sion
Starting date : 1st January 2026 at latest
Contract duration : 4 years
For further information or informal inquiries please contact Prof. Davide Pavanello at davide.pavanello(α)
Please submit your complete application documents (CV, motivation letter, diplomas and certificates) by 30 September 2025 by clicking on the Apply button. Only online applications will be considered.
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