Network Seismologist / Network Seismologistess

ETH Zürich - September 10, 2025

Job Opportunity at Bedretto Underground Laboratory for Geosciences and Geoenergies (BedrettoLab) at ETH Zurich

The Bedretto Underground Laboratory for Geosciences and Geoenergies (BedrettoLab) at ETH Zurich is at the forefront of experimental geosciences, conducting innovative research in earthquake physics, seismic instrumentation, and geothermal energy. Our facility boasts a dense, multi-scale seismic network that includes standard seismological instruments, borehole piezoelectric acoustic emission sensors, and DAS, capturing data at sampling rates between 1,000 to 200,000 samples per second. This enables us to observe magnitude negative five induced earthquakes at distances ranging from mere meters to hundreds of meters. All data acquisition and processing are performed using SeisComP.

Position Overview

We are seeking a talented scientist with a strong interest in network seismology and software development to enhance our seismological data processing and earthquake catalog. This role will involve both real-time and post-processing of waveform data, with a focus on improving earthquake quantification across a wide range of magnitudes. The successful candidate will leverage existing tools and develop new operational and research software applications.

Key Responsibilities

  • Advance source quantification by developing and calibrating physics-based magnitude scales applicable to the entire event catalog and source mechanisms for larger events.
  • Ensure broad usage of all available instrumentation.
  • Establish Ground Motion Prediction Equations (GMPEs) specific to the Bedretto environment.
  • Supervise the implementation of new methods and products in real-time operations.
  • Contribute to network development, operation, and data quality control.
  • Interpret earthquake catalogs.
  • Participate in manual reviews and operations during active experiments.

Qualifications

  • PhD in seismology or a related field.
  • Experience developing or applying methods for micro-earthquake detection, quantification, or catalog analysis.
  • Proficient programming skills in Python; experience with scientific software development, particularly in C++, is advantageous.
  • Familiarity with seismic data processing and real-time systems, especially SeisComP and ObsPy.
  • Proficiency in English, the working language of our group.
  • Strong organizational and time-management skills.
  • Ability to work effectively in a dynamic, multidisciplinary, and international team environment.
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills for scientific reporting and engaging with external partners.
  • Proactive and creative approach to addressing complex scientific challenges.
  • Adept at adapting to evolving research directions and handling catalog processing demands.
  • Passionate about advancing research through technology.

What We Offer

  • Work in an international, dynamic, and collaborative research environment at the forefront of earthquake physics and seismic instrumentation.
  • Contribute to fundamental challenges in seismology, geothermal energy, and geobiology.
  • Access to cutting-edge tools, algorithms, and high-quality seismic datasets.
  • Competitive salary and benefits, including academic development and training opportunities.
  • Flexible working hours (80 to 100%).
  • Location in Zurich, near the ETH main building, with excellent access to public transport; infrequent travel to the Bedretto Laboratory.

Application Process

Apply online using the form below. Please note that only applications matching the job profile will be considered.

Contact Information

For further information on the BedrettoLab, visit our website. If you have any questions regarding the position, please direct them to Dr. John Clinton at jclinton@sed.ethz.ch.

Location : Zürich ETH-Zentrum
Country : Switzerland

Application Form

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

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