Doctoral student in ecosystem gas exchange and nitrogen dynamics in Zürich

The is a vibrant and international working group at the Department of Environmental Systems Science at ETH Zurich. We are looking for a reliable, enthusiastic, and highly motivated doctoral student with a passion for science to join our team. Our research focuses on the process- and system-understanding of the biosphere-atmosphere greenhouse gas exchange and its drivers in forests and agroecosystems, in response to management and climate.

The doctoral project is part of the interdisciplinary project carried out with colleagues from Agroscope in Switzerland. The project aims at understanding drivers and origins of nitrous oxide losses to the atmosphere, and quantifying nitrate leaching in arable and grassland systems, in order to identify the best N management option(s) for climate-smart agriculture at an integrated farm in Switzerland.

The doctoral project will focus on:

1. the quantification of nitrous oxide fluxes of cropland using the eddy covariance method and the identification of their drivers
2. the determination of nitrate leaching, and
3. the evaluation of precision N fertilization options, applied by the farmer.

A new field site will be equipped and maintained in the Western part of Switzerland. The main tasks of the doctoral student include:

• maintenance of a mobile cropland flux measurement station in Switzerland
• quantification of nitrate leaching, and
• assessment of different precision N fertilisation options to develop precision farming recommendations.

The full-time position is funded for 4 years. Salary and social benefits are provided according to ETH Zurich rules.

Upon starting, you must have a completed Master’s degree in agricultural or environmental sciences, ecology, or a closely related science field with experiences in micrometeorology, biogeochemistry, plant ecophysiology, soil science, and/or microbial ecology. You must have very good statistical skills, experience with fieldwork, and programming experience (e.g. in R or Python). A good standard of written and spoken English as well as a driver’s license are mandatory, and a good comprehension of French is a plus. Good writing skills and the ability to work in an interdisciplinary environment are expected.

ETH Zurich is a family-friendly employer with excellent working conditions. You can look forward to an exciting working environment, cultural diversity and attractive offers and benefits.

In line with our values, ETH Zurich encourages an inclusive culture. We promote equality of opportunity, value diversity and nurture a working and learning environment in which the rights and dignity of all our staff and students are respected. Visit our to find out how we ensure a fair and open environment that allows everyone to grow and flourish.