PhD Candidate / PhD Candidate

PhD Position: Examining the Thresholds in Past Atlantic Ocean Circulation Using Stalagmite Geochemistry

100%, Zurich, Fixed-Term

If you are passionate about studying past climate, enjoy working with lab samples, and are adept at generating new geochemical data, this PhD project may pique your interest. The Atlantic Meridional Overturning Circulation (AMOC) is a crucial component of global heat transport, significantly influencing both European and global climate. It has weakened multiple times over the past several hundred thousand years, with recoveries occurring over decades to millennia. This PhD position is part of our ongoing research aimed at diagnosing the causes of these abrupt weakenings and the factors that allowed for the recovery of AMOC. The project involves generating new geochemical records from stalagmites found in coastal caves to reconstruct the timing of changes in North Atlantic salinity relative to AMOC variations, utilizing process models and experiments with tracers in atmosphere-ocean general circulation models.

Job Description

• As a PhD student, you will plan, generate, and interpret new research data; present findings at workshops and conferences; and prepare your research for publication in scientific journals.
• Collaborate with a research team at ETH and other institutions.
• Travel abroad for research stays to conduct U/Th dating of stalagmites and for training in model-data comparisons.
• Enhance your training through required courses (12 KP) in disciplinary and transversal skills.
• Dedicate up to 10% of your employment time to service to the department, generally by contributing to department teaching activities, which also helps build communication and management skills.

Profile

• A completed Master's Degree relevant to Paleoclimate study (e.g., Earth Science or Atmospheric and Climate studies in Physics or Geography).
• Prior coursework in paleoclimate.
• Research experience in geochemistry laboratory analysis, including generating isotopic or trace element data.
• Strong quantitative skills, comfort with coding, and good analytical thinking.
• Commitment to working in an interdisciplinary team that blends climate modeling, geochemical process models, and new geochemical data.
• Strong skills and dedication to growth in academic writing.

Workplace

Your workplace will be a leading geochemistry laboratory at ETH Zurich, where you will gain comprehensive training and have the opportunity to work on pioneering methodologies in climate research.

We Offer

This PhD project provides the chance to receive broad training in advanced geochemistry laboratory techniques, process modeling, and general circulation model results, as part of an international team. ETH offers access to outstanding analytical resources and excellent technical support. Regular co-writing retreats will be available to aid you in navigating the challenges of original scientific writing.

We Value Diversity and Sustainability

In alignment with our values, ETH Zurich fosters an inclusive culture, promoting equality of opportunity and valuing diversity. We nurture a respectful working and learning environment for all staff and students. We are also committed to sustainability, continually working towards a climate-neutral future.

Curious? So Are We.

Apply online using the form below. Only applications matching the job profile will be considered.

• A personal statement describing your motivation for applying for this specific PhD project and detailing how your prior educational and research experiences prepare you for it.
• A current CV including participation in scientific conferences or publications.
• A copy of your Master's Degree transcript.
• The names and contact information (email) of at least two references familiar with your qualifications.

For more information about the Climate Geology, please visit our website. Questions regarding the position should be directed to Prof. Heather Stoll at heather.stoll@eaps.ethz.ch (no applications).

About ETH Zurich

ETH Zurich is one of the world’s leading universities specializing in science and technology, renowned for excellent education, cutting-edge research, and the direct application of new knowledge to societal challenges. With over 30,000 individuals from more than 120 countries, we foster independent thinking and inspire excellence. Located in the heart of Europe, we actively forge global connections to tackle today’s and tomorrow’s challenges.