Network Seismologist / Network Seismologistess

Join the Bedretto Underground Laboratory for Geosciences and Geoenergies

The Bedretto Underground Laboratory for Geosciences and Geoenergies (BedrettoLab) at ETH Zurich is at the forefront of experimental geosciences, conducting cutting-edge research in earthquake physics, seismic instrumentation, and geothermal energy. Our dense, multi-scale seismic network, which includes standard seismological instruments, borehole piezoelectric acoustic emission sensors, and Distributed Acoustic Sensing (DAS), operates at sampling rates ranging from 1,000 to 200,000 samples per second. This advanced network allows us to observe magnitude negative five induced earthquakes across distances from mere meters to hundreds of meters. All data is acquired and processed 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 catalogue. This role involves 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 systems while also developing new operational and research software.

Key Responsibilities

• Advance source quantification: develop and calibrate physics-based magnitude scales applicable to the entire event catalog and source mechanisms for larger events.
• Establish Ground Motion Prediction Equations (GMPEs) for 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 catalogues and participate in manual reviews or operations during active experiments.

Qualifications

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

What We Offer

Join us to work in an international, dynamic, and collaborative research environment at the forefront of earthquake physics and seismic instrumentation. You will contribute to essential challenges in seismology, geothermal energy, and geobiology, while gaining access to cutting-edge tools, algorithms, and high-quality seismic datasets. Our offers include:

• Competitive salary and benefits, including academic development and training opportunities.
• Flexible working hours (80% to 100%).
• A central workplace in Zurich, near the ETH main building, with excellent access to public transport.
• Infrequent travel to the Bedretto Laboratory.

We invite you to apply online using the form below. Please note that only applications matching the job profile will be considered.

For further information on BedrettoLab, visit our website. Questions regarding the position may be directed to Dr. John Clinton at jclinton@sed.ethz.ch. We look forward to receiving your application!