Ph.D. Position in Atmospheric Biogeochemical Modeling at ETH Zurich

Are you passionate about advancing our understanding of environmental processes and their impact on human health? The Inorganic Environmental Geochemistry (IEG) group at ETH Zurich and Eawag – the Swiss Federal Institute of Aquatic Science and Technology – is inviting applications for a fully funded Ph.D. position in atmospheric biogeochemical modeling.

This exciting opportunity is part of a newly funded Swiss National Science Foundation (SNSF) project aimed at improving our knowledge of the atmospheric cycling of selenium (Se), an essential micronutrient with important implications for ecosystems, agriculture, and human health.

About the Project

The successful candidate will contribute to extending the global atmospheric selenium cycling model, integrated into the ICON-ART modeling system (ICOsahedral Nonhydrostatic – Aerosols and Reactive Trace gases).

Your research will focus on:

• Modeling the transformation pathways of atmospheric selenium compounds.
• Investigating how selenium speciation (chemical forms) influences its environmental fate, mobility, and bioavailability.
• Comparing model outputs with atmospheric measurements to validate results.
• Applying statistical inference methods for hypothesis testing.
• Producing global maps of selenium deposition and predicting future changes under different climate and emission scenarios.

This work will provide key insights for developing sustainable management strategies to ensure safe and adequate selenium levels in agricultural and natural systems.

Candidate Profile

We are looking for a highly motivated and curious researcher with:

• A Master’s degree in atmospheric or climate sciences, geochemistry, environmental chemistry, physics, computational sciences, or a related field.
• Strong interest in numerical and quantitative research.
• Proficiency in at least one programming language (Fortran, C, Python, R, etc.).
• Excellent communication skills and fluency in English (spoken and written).
• Self-motivation, creativity, and critical thinking skills.
• Enthusiasm for interdisciplinary teamwork and biogeochemical processes.

What We Offer

At ETH Zurich, you will benefit from:

• Expert supervision and training in atmospheric modeling, biogeochemical cycles, and computational sciences.
• Interdisciplinary collaboration with researchers in analytics, statistics, and mechanistic modeling.
• Opportunities to attend international conferences and build your professional network.
• A supportive environment that values diversity, well-being, and work-life balance.
• Flexible working arrangements, including the option for remote work.
• A competitive Ph.D. salary according to ETH Zurich standards, with funding secured for four years.

Application Details

Interested candidates should prepare the following documents:

• Cover letter outlining motivation for applying.
• Curriculum Vitae (CV).
• Copies of BSc and MSc transcripts.
• Contact details of two academic referees.

📌 Applications must be submitted via the ETH Zurich online portal. Applications by email or post will not be considered.

The position will remain open until filled.

For inquiries (not applications), please contact:
Dr. Andrea Stenke – andrea.stenke@env.ethz.ch

About ETH Zurich

ETH Zurich is one of the world’s leading universities in science and technology, with a vibrant international community of more than 30,000 people from over 120 countries. Renowned for excellence in education and groundbreaking research, ETH fosters an environment that inspires innovation and collaboration to tackle global challenges.

Job Overview

• Title: Ph.D. Position in Atmospheric Biogeochemical Modeling
• Employer: ETH Zurich
• Location: Rämistrasse 101, Zurich, Switzerland
• Published: July 7, 2025
• Application deadline: Open until filled
• Field of study: Environmental Chemistry, Atmospheric Sciences, Climate Science, Geochemistry, Environmental Science
• Type: Full-time Ph.D.

🔗 Use this link to Apply Now: https://www.jobs.ethz.ch/job/view/JOPG_ethz_D8bDLQDvDwC6VBOLE7?mw_source=academicpositions