Postdoc in ecosystem gas exchange and remote sensing

100%, Zurich, temporary

In frame of the EcoDrive project, the Grassland Sciences Group (GL) at ETH Zurich and the Remote Sensing of Water Systems (RSWS) group at the University of Zurich aim to understand how weather extremes affect the carbon and water exchange of terrestrial ecosystems. We are looking for a highly motivated, enthusiastic and independent person with a passion for science to join our team. The GL group, led by Prof. Nina Buchmann, aims for process and system understanding of the biosphere-atmosphere greenhouse gas exchange and its drivers in forests and agroecosystems. The RSWS group, led by Prof. Alexander Damm-Reiser, develops and applies novel in situ, airborne and satellite based Earth observation approaches and combines them with mechanistic models to advance understanding of terrestrial and aquatic water systems. The position is limited to 2-2.5 years.

Job description

The successful candidate will implement a multi-data approach to quantify spatial and temporal contributions of abiotic vs. biotic drivers of ecosystem gas exchange under current and extreme weather conditions. Main tasks include

• the collection of meteorological, eddy flux and remote sensing data at various Swiss test sites,


• the exploitation of data using time series analysis,


• the implementation of a multi-data modelling approach for spatio-temporal predictions of ecosystem gas exchange including a throughout uncertainty assessment,


• the communication of results in peer-reviewed journals and at international conferences.

The position, funded for 2.5 years and located in the GL group at ETH Zurich, is associated with the COST Action SENSECO (www.senseco.eu) and will involve collaboration with this Action and several European partners. The successful candidate will encounter international, interdisciplinary research groups in a lively university environment as well as international working experiences. Salary and social benefits are provided according to ETH Zurich conditions.

Your profile

Upon start, applicants must have a completed PhD degree in Environmental Sciences, Earth System Science or a closely related science field, with a strong focus on micrometeorology and remote sensing. Applicants must be proficient in scientific programming and have experiences with experimental approaches and fieldwork (e.g. collection of in situ micrometeorological, eddy flux and remote sensing data). Modelling experience and good numerical skills are required. A high standard of written and spoken English is mandatory.

ETH Zurich

ETH Zurich is one of the world’s leading universities specialising in science and technology. We are renowned for our excellent education, cutting-edge fundamental research and direct transfer of new knowledge into society. Over 30,000 people from more than 120 countries find our university to be a place that promotes independent thinking and an environment that inspires excellence. Located in the heart of Europe, yet forging connections all over the world, we work together to develop solutions for the global challenges of today and tomorrow. Working, teaching and research at ETH Zurich