Overview
Join to apply for the Professor in Planetary Sciences role at University of Bern.
The Division of Space Research and Planetary Sciences of the Physics Institute, University of Bern, Switzerland, invites applications for a full-time position as a Professor in Planetary Sciences. The initial level of tenure can range from assistant professor tenure track to full professor depending on qualifications (open rank).
The Division is a leading institute in space research and is looking for a Professor of Experimental Physics in the field of planetary science for Solar System exploration. We invite applications from candidates who conduct outstanding research, teaching, mentorship, and leadership in any area of experimental planetary science.
Responsibilities
* Develop and lead a high-impact research program in planetary sciences, including properties, origin and evolution of planets and minor bodies, exploration of life beyond Earth, surface and atmospheric composition, and planetary interior evolution.
* Engage in instrumentation and flight hardware development, experimental, observational and laboratory techniques, data analysis of space probe datasets, and/or involvement and leadership in space missions.
* Contribute to teaching, advising, and mentorship; participate in education and outreach programs; contribute to the Division’s strategic goals.
* Collaborate within the Division, with local and international partners, and help build a diverse and inclusive research culture; participate in leadership roles within the Division and the faculty of science.
* Secure third-party funding and establish a strong international research network.
* Contribute to ongoing and future Space Research and Planetary Sciences initiatives at the University of Bern and related institutes (e.g., Center for Space and Habitability, International Space Science Institute in Bern).
Qualifications
* Candidates should hold a PhD in planetary sciences, physics, geophysics, astrophysics or a related field.
* A strong (or promising) record of research excellence, teaching, advising and mentorship; potential for transformational leadership and positive research culture.
* Ability to secure competitive research funding and establish an international collaborations network.
* Commitment to inclusive excellence and fostering diversity in leadership and academic environment; applications from women and other underrepresented groups are encouraged.
* Willingness to consider job sharing or part-time arrangements; adherence to fair and transparent recruitment principles (DORA).
Requirements for Application
* Letter of motivation (max. 3 pages)
* Curriculum Vitae (max. 5 pages)
* List of publications
* List of courses taught (max. 2 pages)
* List of third-party funds raised (max. 1 page)
* DEI-statement outlining past and planned future contributions (max. 1 page)
* Research plan for the first 5 years (max. 10 pages excluding references)
Applications should be submitted by 31 January 2026 electronically in a single PDF file to the Dean's Office (email: applications.natdek@unibe.ch).
For inquiries, please contact Prof. Christoph Mordasini, Executive Director of the Division of Space Research and Planetary Sciences (jobs.space@unibe.ch).
More information: www.space.unibe.ch | www.karriere.unibe.ch
Additional Details
* Seniority level: Mid-Senior level
* Employment type: Full-time
* Job function: Education and Training
* Industry: Higher Education
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