Postdoctoral Researcher in ocean carbon data/model analyses in Zürich

100%, Zurich, temporary

The Environmental Physics Group is a vibrant interdisciplinary team of researchers studying climate and oceans from regional to global scales.

A key focus of our work is the study of the role of the ocean as a sink for atmospheric CO2. This In this context, we are seeking a postdoctoral researcher in ocean carbon data/model analyses within the framework of the CCiCC project funded by the European Commission () and the international 2nd Regional Carbon Cycle Assessment and Processes (RECCAP2) project (link to first RECCAP ). Our aim is to use new observations and models to better understand the past and present variability of the oceanic carbon sink and the processes governing this variability. These results will be combined with the results from the other groups in CCiCC to generate a fully consistent (and largely data-based) global carbon budget that will then form a basis for the global carbon stock take foreseen in 2023 as part of the Paris Agreement. Similarly, the RECCAP2 project aims to advance our understanding of the regional dimensions of the global carbon budget.

The successful applicant will analyze and synthesize observations and models, as well as play a leading role in the execution of the RECCAP2 project. Concretely, the postdoc will use newly collected interior ocean carbon observations in order to determine global changes in ocean storage of (anthropogenic) carbon and to compare these estimates with results from a range of global ocean biogeochemical models. This person will analyze surface ocean observation-based estimates of the uptake flux of carbon and relate them to the changes in the ocean interior in order to develop a consistent picture of the ocean’s role as a sink for atmospheric CO₂. The postdoc will also work closely with Prof. Nicolas Gruber in the planning and execution of the RECCAP2 project, which involves groups from around the world working on specific processes and/or regions and synthesizing current knowledge about the ocean carbon cycle.

The postdoctoral researcher will work in the Environmental Physics group of Prof. Nicolas Gruber. The starting date of this position is early 2020. The position is guaranteed for two years with the possibility for a third year extension.

The ideal applicant/candidate has a Ph.D. degree in atmospheric, oceanic and/or climate sciences. Also invited are candidates from closely related disciplines provided they have substantial expertise in the analysis and synthesis of data. You have very good oral and written English skills, you are an excellent communicator, you like to work with people in an interdisciplinary environment, and you have demonstrated the ability to lead projects and write publications.

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.