Earth Systems Data Manager / Earth Systems Data Manageress

Earth Systems Data Manager

80%-100%, Zurich, fixed-term

The Center for Climate Systems Modeling (C2SM) at ETH Zurich is a joint, interdisciplinary center that connects ETH Zurich with partner institutions. It provides a technology and networking platform to support the development and application of Earth system, weather, and climate modeling, data infrastructure, and impact research. This position involves close collaboration with the Swiss National Supercomputing Centre (CSCS).

Project Background

The volume and diversity of Earth observations collected from satellites, airborne instruments, and in-situ measurement networks are rapidly increasing. Effectively harnessing this data is crucial for advancing our understanding of the Earth system.

To meet this challenge, we are developing a robust data management framework designed to make the rapidly growing Earth-system datasets accessible and usable for the scientific community. The Earth Systems Data Manager will play a pivotal role in shaping this framework by:

Job Description

• Identifying and evaluating Earth system observations relevant to interdisciplinary research needs
• Curating data collections by assessing quality, completeness, and scientific value
• Creating comprehensive metadata and documentation to support data discovery and use
• Developing a web-based platform to provide users with an overview of the available data
• Coordinating with researchers in climate science, environmental monitoring, data science, and related fields
• Collaborating with a dynamic and international team of researchers and developers to advance the research platform
• Supporting interdisciplinary research projects requiring multiple data sources
• Working with high-performance computing platforms for data storage and analysis

Profile

• Degree in Earth sciences, data science, computer science, or a related field
• Knowledge of satellite data formats and remote sensing
• Experience with large datasets (petabyte-scale), data management, and data quality control
• Proficient in programming languages such as Python/R/Julia and adept in using scientific data libraries (e.g., xarray, netCDF4, HDF5, Zarr) along with workflow automation on HPC systems
• Strong communication skills for collaboration across different scientific disciplines

Beneficial Qualifications

• Experience working in an interdisciplinary environment
• PhD in remote sensing or a related field
• Experience in leading projects across multiple domains
• Experience with user support, data documentation, and FAIR data principles (Findable, Accessible, Interoperable, Reusable)

Workplace

In this role, you will be at the cutting-edge intersection of Earth system modeling, high-performance computing, and data-driven science. You will join a vibrant and interdisciplinary community at the Center for Climate Systems Modeling (C2SM) that connects weather and climate researchers, computational scientists, and data experts across ETH Zurich and its partner institutions. This position presents an opportunity to help shape modern data infrastructure for the Swiss climate and weather research community, contribute to impactful scientific projects, and support researchers working with rapidly growing environmental datasets. You will benefit from excellent technical resources, access to state-of-the-art HPC systems, strong mentorship, and opportunities for professional development in a collaborative, forward-looking research ecosystem.

The position is initially limited to two years, with the possibility of extension.

We Value Diversity and Sustainability

In line with our values, ETH Zurich encourages an inclusive culture. We promote equal opportunity, value diversity, and nurture a working and learning environment where the rights and dignity of all our staff and students are respected. Visit our Equal Opportunities and Diversity website to learn more about how we ensure a fair and open environment that allows everyone to thrive. Sustainability is a core value for us—we are consistently working towards a climate-neutral future.

Curious? So Are We.

Apply online using the form below. Only applications matching the job profile will be considered.

Contact Information

For further information about C2SM, please visit our website. For specific inquiries, you can reach out to:

• Dr. Christina Schnadt Poberaj, Phone: +41 44 633 84 58, Email: christina.schnadt@c2sm.ethz.ch
• Prof. Andreas Prein, Phone: +41 44 632 30 29, Email: andreas.prein@env.ethz.ch

About ETH Zürich

ETH Zurich is one of the world's leading universities specializing 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, we forge connections globally to develop solutions for today's and tomorrow's challenges.