100%, Zurich, fixed-term
The student will be hosted between the groups WaldLab Ecohydrology and Silviculture. The WaldLab Ecohydrology group is part of the Chair of Hydrology and River System Science at the ETH Zurich Institute of Environmental Engineering, specializing in water chemistry assessments in forested ecosystems. The Silviculture group belongs to the Chair of Forest Resources Management at the ETH Zurich Institute of Terrestrial Ecosystems, focusing on silviculture and forest management. We are seeking a reliable, enthusiastic, and highly motivated doctoral student with a passion for interdisciplinary science to join our team.
This position is part of the project "Forest Management and Drinking Water Security under Climate Change," supported by the Swiss Federal Office for the Environment. The project investigates the vital link between forest ecosystem management and health and the quality of drinking water across Switzerland. As climate change intensifies disturbances such as droughts, windthrows, and pest outbreaks, understanding how forest structure and management influence water quality outcomes is essential. The project integrates national-scale data analysis, water quality monitoring of spring networks, and detailed mechanistic insights into subsurface flow routing and transit times. Close collaboration with forest and drinking water stakeholders and decision-making authorities is a key aspect of this role; therefore, a robust understanding of Central European and Swiss forest ecosystems (including species composition, development stages, and silvicultural practices) is critical. This research will be conducted in a collaborative environment between the two research groups, providing extensive technical support and interdisciplinary expertise in ecohydrology and forest management.
The doctoral project aims to assess the resilience of Swiss drinking water resources to changes in forest management. As the successful candidate, your work will entail:
The full-time position is funded for four years, and salary and social benefits are provided according to ETH Zurich regulations.
The ideal candidate should possess a completed Master's degree in hydrology, environmental sciences, forest sciences, ecology, or a closely related field, with experience in water chemistry, silviculture, experimental fieldwork, and large-scale data analysis. Good statistical skills and programming experience (e.g., in R or Python) are required. Proficiency in written and spoken English is mandatory, and a driver's license is necessary. Knowledge of German and other Swiss national languages is considered an asset. Strong writing skills and the ability to work collaboratively in an interdisciplinary environment are highly valued.
Your position will be based in a stimulating international and interdisciplinary work environment at a world-leading research institute. You will have opportunities to collaborate with practitioners and federal/cantonal offices, present research at national and international conferences, and be immersed in a supportive setup for developing your scientific career.
Your role will make a meaningful impact: Join ETH Zurich, where your professional development is nurtured, and contribute to positive societal change. Numerous benefits are available, including public transport season tickets, car sharing, various sports activities offered by the ASVZ, childcare services, and attractive pension plans.
In alignment with our core values, ETH Zurich encourages an inclusive culture, promoting equality of opportunity, valuing diversity, and fostering a respectful working and learning environment for all staff and students. Visit our Equal Opportunities and Diversity website to learn about our commitment to creating a fair and open atmosphere that allows everyone to thrive. Sustainability is central to our mission, and we continuously work towards a climate-neutral future.
Apply online using the form below. Only applications that match the job profile will be considered.
For further information about WaldLab Ecohydrology and the Silviculture groups, please visit their respective websites. If you have questions regarding the position, feel free to contact Dr. Marius Floriancic and Dr. Mathieu Lévesque via email: floriancic@ifu.baug.ethz.ch and mathieu.levesque@usys.ethz.ch.
The envisioned starting date for the position is July 1, 2026, with interviews commencing in May 2026.
ETH Zurich is one of the world’s leading universities specializing in science and technology. Renowned for exceptional education, cutting-edge fundamental research, and the direct transfer of new knowledge into society, our institution attracts over 30,000 people from more than 120 countries. We foster independent thinking and an environment that inspires excellence. Located in the heart of Europe while connecting globally, we collaborate to develop solutions for the challenges of today and tomorrow.
Location : Zürich
Country : Switzerland