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 the study of past climate, enjoy hands-on laboratory work, and excel in generating new geochemical data, this PhD project may be right for you. The Atlantic Meridional Overturning Circulation (AMOC) is a crucial component of global heat transport that significantly influences European and global climates. It has experienced substantial weakening numerous times over the past several hundred thousand years, followed by recoveries that can occur within centuries to millennia. This PhD position is part of our ongoing research aimed at diagnosing the causes of these abrupt weakenings and identifying the factors that facilitate AMOC recovery. The project will generate new geochemical records from stalagmites grown in coastal caves to reconstruct the timing of changes in North Atlantic salinity in relation to AMOC variations, employing process models and experimental tracers in atmosphere-ocean general circulation experiments.

Job Description

• As a PhD student, you will plan, generate, and interpret new research data. You will present your findings to scientific colleagues at workshops and conferences and prepare your research for publication in scientific journals.
• Collaboration is key, and you will work with a research team at ETH and other institutions.
• You may travel abroad for research stays to conduct U/Th dating of stalagmites and for training in model-data comparisons.
• Your training will be supplemented by required courses (12KP) focused on disciplinary and transversal skills.
• All PhD students are expected to dedicate up to 10% of their employment time to departmental service, typically through participation in teaching activities, which will enhance your communication and management skills.

Profile

• You hold a Master's Degree relevant to Paleoclimate studies (e.g., Earth Science, Physics, or Geography with a focus on Atmosphere and Climate).
• You possess prior course experience in paleoclimate studies.
• Your background includes course and research experience in geochemical laboratory analysis, including generating isotopic or trace element data.
• Strong quantitative skills and coding proficiency, along with good analytical thinking, are essential.
• You are committed to working in an interdisciplinary team that integrates climate modeling, geochemical process models, and new geochemical data.
• Your academic writing skills are strong, and you are dedicated to further growth in this area.

Workplace

This PhD project offers a unique opportunity to gain extensive training in leading geochemistry laboratories, collaborate on developing and utilizing process models, and engage with results from general circulation models of climate as part of an international team pioneering new methodologies. ETH provides access to outstanding analytical resources with excellent technical support. Regular co-writing sessions and retreats will aid you in tackling the challenges of original scientific writing.

We Value Diversity and Sustainability

ETH Zurich is committed to fostering an inclusive culture that promotes equality of opportunity, values diversity, and nurtures an environment in which the rights and dignity of all staff and students are respected. Sustainability is a core value for us, as we strive 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 this specific PhD project, along with details about how your educational and research experiences have prepared you.
• A current CV highlighting any 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 who can vouch for your qualifications.

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

About ETH Zurich

ETH Zurich is among the world's leading universities specializing in science and technology. Renowned for its excellent education, innovative research, and the direct application of new knowledge to societal challenges, ETH fosters independent thinking and inspires excellence in over 30,000 individuals from more than 120 countries. Located in the heart of Europe, we connect globally to develop solutions for today’s and tomorrow’s challenges.