The Plant Ecology Group at ETH Zürich is seeking an enthusiastic PhD candidate to study the factors underlying the success of assisted migration of mountain plants threatened by climate change. The PhD candidate will be based in the Plant Ecology Group at ETH Zürich under the guidance of Prof. Jake Alexander, and will collaborate with the Ecology Group at the University of Basel, led by Prof. Sabine Rumpf, and the Flore-Alpe Alpine Botanical Garden, directed by Prof. Christophe Randin.
Climate change is shifting the spatial distribution of suitable habitats for many species. However, the majority of mountain plant species are unable to disperse quickly enough to higher elevations in response to these changes. Assisted migration may become a vital part of ecological restoration and conservation efforts aimed at mitigating the risk of extinction due to climate change. Currently, in Switzerland and beyond, policies concerning assisted migration are in the early stages of consideration, and crucial knowledge and experience are needed to enhance the success of these projects.
The PhD candidate will engage in a broader project that involves scientists, policy makers from federal and cantonal administrations, and practitioners from conservation and industry. The overarching goal is to establish guidelines and initiate an assisted migration program for mountain plants in Switzerland that face threats from climate change. The PhD candidate's responsibilities will include:
The PhD candidate will also have the opportunity to develop independent analyses within this broad theme and is expected to contribute to group responsibilities, which may include teaching, outreach, and lab activities within the department and university.
The Plant Ecology Group at ETH Zürich conducts research on a variety of topics within plant community ecology, examining factors such as climate influences, biotic interactions, and demographic lags in range shifts and community dynamics. The group explores the drivers of biological invasions, alpine wildflower phenology, forest regeneration constraints, and utilizes community science to engage the public in ecological research. The group is deeply committed to diversity and inclusivity in all activities and promotes collaborative science. For more information, please visit our website.
Funding is available for four years of PhD studies, starting at 52,500 CHF per year (before taxes), as per the standards of the Department of Environmental Systems Sciences (USYS) at ETH Zürich. All members of the Plant Ecology Group are involved in teaching and mentoring bachelor’s and master’s students.
This project provides exceptional opportunities for collaboration with the University of Basel and the Flore-Alpe Alpine Botanical Garden. Additional interactive opportunities are available through research groups at ETH Zürich, the adjacent University of Zürich, WSL (the Swiss Federal Institute for Forest, Snow and Landscape Research), and EAWAG (the Swiss Federal Institute of Aquatic Science and Technology). Zürich offers a cosmopolitan lifestyle with high living standards, easy access to research sites, outdoor activities, and the rest of Europe.
In line with our values, ETH Zurich fosters 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. Visit our Equal Opportunities and Diversity website for information on how we ensure a fair and open environment for everyone to thrive.
We look forward to receiving your online application with the following documents, each uploaded as a separate PDF. Please include your last name in the file name (e.g., Aziz-CV.pdf, Chang-MScDegree.pdf, Meier-MScTranscript.pdf). Please note that a cover letter is not required; simply respond to the questions provided in the online application.
Only applications matching the job profile will be considered. For inquiries regarding this position, please contact Dr. Jake Alexander at ajake@ethz.ch. Be sure to include an informative subject line (e.g., Questions about Assisted Migration PhD position).
ETH Zurich is among the world's leading universities specializing in science and technology. We are known for our outstanding education, cutting-edge fundamental research, and the direct transfer of new knowledge into society. Over 30,000 individuals from more than 120 countries gather at our university, fostering independent thought and an environment that inspires excellence. Strategically located in the heart of Europe, we forge connections globally to develop solutions for the challenges of today and tomorrow.
Apply online using the form below.
Location : Zürich
Country : Switzerland