Doctoral Student in Isotope-Enabled Evapotranspiration Partitioning / Doctoral Studentess in Isotope-Enabled Evapotranspiration Partitioning

Doctoral Student in Isotope-Enabled Evapotranspiration Partitioning

100%, Zurich, Fixed-Term

This position is part of the project Isotope-enabled flux partitioning of evapotranspiration in five Swiss forest and grassland ecosystems (IsoFlux), hosted by the groups Grassland Sciences and WaldLab Ecohydrology. Our research focuses on understanding the processes and systems related to biosphere-atmosphere greenhouse gas exchange and its drivers in forests and grasslands, in response to management and climate. We also delve into ecohydrology and stable water isotope applications. The Grassland Sciences group is an international and dynamic team within the Department of Environmental Systems Science, while the WaldLab Ecohydrology group is part of the Department of Civil, Environmental and Geomatic Engineering at ETH Zurich. We are in search of a reliable, enthusiastic, and highly motivated doctoral student who is passionate about science to join our teams.

Project Background

The position is part of the project Isotope-enabled flux partitioning of evapotranspiration (ET) in five Swiss forest and grassland ecosystems (IsoFlux), supported by an ETH Research Grant. IsoFlux investigates ecosystem water and energy fluxes, as well as ecosystem resilience against climate extremes. By utilizing continuous, high-frequency water vapor isotope measurements (−²H, −¹-O) in conjunction with eddy-covariance ET fluxes, we aim to develop more robust, assumption-independent methods for partitioning ET into evaporation (E) and transpiration (T). Across five Swiss FluxNet sites that span an elevational gradient, IsoFlux will:

• Deploy a mobile in-situ isotope observation system.
• Quantify the water sources sustaining E and T using isotopes found in precipitation, litter, and soil.
• Compare isotope- and flux-based ET partitioning and identify drivers of ET, E, and T across various seasons and years through machine learning approaches.

Both groups will provide scientific and technical support throughout the project.

Job Description

The doctoral project will focus on assessing ET partitioning at various forest and grassland sites across Switzerland. Your responsibilities will include:

• Deploying a mobile in-situ isotope measurement system to measure water vapor isotopes at different Swiss FluxNet sites.
• Measuring and evaluating data from eddy-covariance ET fluxes.
• Sampling soil and plants, as well as conducting water extractions to identify potential water sources.
• Assessing various methods for ET partitioning using eddy-covariance flux and stable water isotope data.
• Conducting statistical analyses, including the application of machine learning methods.

This full-time position is funded for four years, with a salary and benefits in accordance with ETH Zurich's policies.

Profile

To be eligible for this position, candidates must hold:

• A Master's degree in atmospheric sciences, environmental sciences, forest sciences, hydrology, ecology, or a closely related field, with experience in stable water isotopes, micrometeorology, biogeochemistry, and/or plant ecophysiology.
• Fieldwork experience, strong statistical skills, and programming knowledge (e.g., in R or Python).
• Proficiency in written and spoken English, along with a valid driver's license.
• Excellent writing skills and the capability to thrive in an interdisciplinary environment.

Workplace

Join a collaborative and innovative environment at ETH Zurich, where you will contribute to cutting-edge research and development.

We Offer

• The opportunity to advance your career while actively participating in meaningful projects at ETH Zurich, an institution that supports professional development and societal improvement.
• A commitment to creating a sustainable and climate-neutral university environment.
• Numerous benefits, including public transport season tickets, car-sharing options, a wide range of sports activities offered by ASVZ, childcare services, and attractive pension benefits.

We Value Diversity and Sustainability

In alignment with our values, ETH Zurich promotes an inclusive culture. We advocate equality of opportunity, value diversity, and cultivate a working and learning environment that respects the rights and dignity of all staff and students. For more information, please visit our Equal Opportunities and Diversity website. Sustainability is a core principle for us, and we are continually striving towards a climate-neutral future.

Curious? So Are We.

Apply online using the form below. Only applications matching the job profile will be considered. For additional information regarding the Grassland Sciences and WaldLab Ecohydrology groups, please visit their respective websites. For any inquiries related to the position, contact Dr. Marius Floriancic (floriancic@ifu.baug.ethz.ch) and Prof. Dr. Nina Buchmann (nina.buchmann@usys.ethz.ch) (no applications).

About ETH Zurich

ETH Zurich is one of the world's leading universities specializing in science and technology. Renowned for our exceptional education, cutting-edge fundamental research, and direct transfer of new knowledge into society, we attract over 30,000 individuals from more than 120 countries who value our commitment to fostering independent thinking and inspiring excellence. Situated at the heart of Europe and forging connections worldwide, we work collectively to develop solutions for the global challenges of today and tomorrow.