Earth Systems Data Manager / Earth Systems Data Manageress

Earth Systems Data Manager (Petabyte-Scale Infrastructure)

80%-100%, Zurich, fixed-term

The Center for Climate Systems Modeling (C2SM) at ETH Zurich is an interdisciplinary center that connects ETH Zurich with various partner institutions. It provides a technology and networking platform to support the development and application of Earth system, weather, and climate modeling, as well as data infrastructure and impact research.

Project Background

As the volume and diversity of Earth observations continue to grow—collected from satellites, airborne instruments, in-situ measurement networks, and high-resolution climate modeling data produced at C2SM—it is essential to harness these datasets effectively to advance our understanding of the Earth system. In collaboration with the Swiss National Supercomputing Centre (CSCS), C2SM is extending its data services by building a petabyte-scale data lake comprised of highly diverse observational and model data.

To meet this challenge, we are developing a robust data management framework to make rapidly growing Earth-system datasets accessible and usable for the scientific community. We seek an Earth Systems Data Manager to play a pivotal role in shaping this framework, focusing on identifying relevant observational datasets, curating and documenting data collections, and establishing metadata and access standards to support data discovery and reproducibility. The successful candidate will work closely with researchers and developers from C2SM, ETH, CSCS, as well as national and international institutions to operate and advance the data platform, assist interdisciplinary projects, and utilize high-performance computing resources to manage large environmental datasets for research purposes.

Job Description

• Identify Earth system observations that are relevant to 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 for users to gain 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
• Work with high-performance computing platforms for data storage and 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; skilled in scientific data libraries (e.g., xarray, netCDF4, HDF5, Zarr) and workflow automation on HPC systems
• At least 3 years of interdisciplinary work experience (PhD not included)
• Strong communication skills for engaging with different scientific disciplines

Beneficial

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

Workplace

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

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 equality of opportunity, value diversity, and nurture a working and learning environment that respects the rights and dignity of all staff and students. Sustainability is a core value, and we actively work 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 further information about C2SM, please visit our website. If you have questions, you may contact Dr. Christina Schnadt Poberaj at +41 44 633 84 58 or christina.schnadt@c2sm.ethz.ch, or Prof. Andreas Prein at +41 44 632 30 29 or andreas.prein@env.ethz.ch.

About ETH Zurich

ETH Zurich is one of the world’s leading universities specializing in science and technology. We are renowned for our excellent education, cutting-edge research, and the 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 inspires excellence. Located in the heart of Europe and forging connections globally, we work together to develop solutions for the challenges of today and tomorrow.