Job opportunity

Earth Systems Data Manager / Earth Systems Data Manageress

ETH Zurich Zürich January 3, 2026

Earth Systems Data Manager

80%-100%, Zurich, fixed-term

The Center for Climate Systems Modeling (C2SM) at ETH Zurich is a joint, interdisciplinary center linking 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. The position will involve close collaboration with the Swiss National Supercomputing Centre (CSCS).

Project Background

As the volume and diversity of Earth observations collected from satellites, airborne instruments, and in-situ measurement networks continue to grow, effectively harnessing this data is essential for advancing our understanding of the Earth system. To meet this challenge, we are developing a robust data management framework to facilitate the accessibility and usability of rapidly expanding Earth-system datasets for the scientific community. The Earth Systems Data Manager will play a key role in shaping this framework, focusing on identifying and evaluating relevant satellite and observational datasets, curating and documenting data collections to ensure quality and scientific value, and establishing metadata and access standards to support data discovery and reproducibility.

In collaboration with researchers and developers from C2SM, ETH, and CSCS, the successful candidate will operate and enhance the research platform, support interdisciplinary projects that integrate multiple data sources, and utilize high-performance computing resources for managing, processing, and analyzing large environmental datasets.

Job Description

  • Identify and evaluate Earth system observations relevant to interdisciplinary research needs.
  • Cure data collections by assessing quality, completeness, and scientific value.
  • Create comprehensive metadata and documentation to support data discovery and use.
  • Begin developing a web-based platform to provide users with an overview of the available data.
  • Coordinate with researchers in climate science, environmental monitoring, data science, and related fields.
  • Collaborate with a dynamic and international team of researchers and developers to operate and advance the research platform.
  • Work 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.
  • Proficiency in programming languages such as Python, R, or Julia, along with the use of scientific data libraries (e.g., xarray, netCDF4, HDF5, Zarr), and workflow automation on HPC systems.
  • Strong communication skills for effective 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, ideally across multiple domains.
  • Experience with user support, data documentation, and FAIR data principles (Findable, Accessible, Interoperable, Reusable).

Workplace

In this role, you will be positioned at the cutting-edge intersection of Earth system modeling, high-performance computing, and data-driven science. You will join C2SM, a vibrant interdisciplinary community connecting weather and climate researchers, computational scientists, and data experts across ETH Zurich and its partner institutions. This opportunity allows you to shape a 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

Aligned with our values, ETH Zurich encourages an inclusive culture. We promote equality of opportunity, value diversity, and nurture a working and learning environment where the rights and dignity of all staff and students are respected. Sustainability is a core value for us; we consistently work towards a climate-neutral future.

Curious? So Are We.

We look forward to receiving your online application using the form below.

  • CV
  • Letter of motivation

For more information about C2SM, please visit our website. For inquiries, reach out to Dr. Christina Schnadt Poberaj at christina.schnadt@c2sm.ethz.ch or Prof. Andreas Prein at andreas.prein@env.ethz.ch.

Please note that only applications matching the job profile will be considered.

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 individuals from more than 120 countries find ETH Zurich to be a place that promotes independent thinking and an environment that inspires excellence. Located in the heart of Europe, we work collectively to devise solutions for today's and tomorrow's global challenges.

Work locationZürich, Switzerland

Application Form

Please enter your information in the following form and attach your resume (CV)

Only pdf, Word, or OpenOffice file. Maximum file size: 3 MB.