Earth Systems Data Manager / Earth Systems Data Manageress

Earth Systems Data Manager (Petabyte-Scale Infrastructure)

Location: Zurich, fixed-term, 80%-100%

The Center for Climate Systems Modeling (C2SM) at ETH Zurich is a dynamic interdisciplinary center that bridges ETH Zurich with partner institutions. It serves as a technology and networking platform to advance the development and application of Earth system, weather, and climate modeling, alongside data infrastructure and impact research.

Project Background

As the volume and variety of Earth observations continue to grow, we increasingly rely on data collected from satellites, airborne instruments, in-situ measurement networks, and high-resolution climate modeling data produced at C2SM. Effectively harnessing this data is key to deepening our understanding of the Earth system.

In collaboration with the Swiss National Supercomputing Centre (CSCS), C2SM is enhancing its data services by constructing a petabyte-scale data lake, which encompasses a diverse array of observational and model data.

To meet this challenge, we are developing a robust data management framework aimed at making rapidly expanding Earth system datasets accessible and usable for the scientific community. We are seeking an Earth Systems Data Manager to play a crucial role in shaping this framework. This technical position emphasizes identifying observational datasets relevant to Earth science research across disciplines, curating and documenting data collections to ensure their quality and scientific value, and establishing metadata and access standards that support data discovery and reproducibility.

Job Description

• Identify Earth system observations that fulfill interdisciplinary research needs.
• Curate data collections by assessing quality, completeness, and scientific value.
• Create comprehensive metadata and documentation to support data discovery and use.
• Develop a 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 developers and researchers to operate and advance the data platform.
• Support interdisciplinary research projects that require multiple data sources.
• Utilize high-performance computing platforms for data storage and provide analysis tools for researchers.

Profile

• Degree in data science, computer science, Earth or atmospheric sciences, or a related field.
• Knowledge of satellite data and remote sensing.
• Experience with very large datasets (petabyte-scale), data management, and data quality control.
• Proficient in programming languages such as Python, R, or Julia, and capable of using scientific data libraries (e.g., xarray, netCDF4, HDF5, Zarr) with workflow automation on HPC systems.
• At least 3 years of interdisciplinary work experience (PhD not included).
• Strong communication skills to work effectively across various scientific disciplines.

Beneficial Qualifications

• Experience in an interdisciplinary working environment.
• PhD in remote sensing or a related field.
• Experience working with extensive atmospheric observational or model data.
• Prior experience in leading projects across different domains.
• Familiarity with user support, data documentation, and FAIR data principles (Findable, Accessible, Interoperable, Reusable).

Workplace

In this role, you will be at the forefront of Earth system modeling, high-performance computing, and data-driven science. You will be part of the vibrant community at the Center for Climate Systems Modeling (C2SM), which unites weather and climate researchers, computational scientists, and data experts across ETH Zurich and its partner institutions. This technical position offers a unique opportunity to shape modern data infrastructure for the Swiss climate and weather research community while supporting impactful scientific projects.

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

Diversity and Sustainability

ETH Zurich is committed to fostering an inclusive culture that values diversity and promotes equal opportunity. We nurture an environment where every individual's rights and dignity are respected. Sustainability is also a core value that we pursue tirelessly towards a climate-neutral future.

Curious? So are we!

We invite you to apply online using the form below. Only applications matching the job profile will be considered.

If you require further information about C2SM, please visit our website. For additional questions regarding the position, you may contact Dr. Christina Schnadt Poberaj at +41 44 633 84 58 or via email at christina.schnadt@c2sm.ethz.ch, or Prof. Andreas Prein at +41 44 632 30 29 or via email at andreas.prein@env.ethz.ch.

About ETH Zürich

ETH Zurich stands as one of the world’s leading universities specializing in science and technology. We are renowned for our exceptional education, cutting-edge research, and direct transfer of innovative knowledge to society. Our community of over 30,000 individuals from more than 120 countries is one that promotes independent thinking and inspires excellence. Located in the heart of Europe, we actively collaborate to address the global challenges of today and tomorrow.