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 hands-on laboratory work, and are eager to generate new geochemical data, this PhD project might be the perfect fit for you. The Atlantic Meridional Overturning Circulation (AMOC) is a crucial component of global heat transport that significantly influences both European and global climates. Over the last few hundred thousand years, the AMOC has experienced substantial weakening events, followed by recoveries over centuries to millennia. This PhD position will contribute to our ongoing research that seeks to diagnose the causes of these abrupt changes and the factors enabling AMOC's recovery.

The project involves generating novel geochemical records from stalagmites found in coastal caves. These records will help 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

• You will plan, generate, and interpret new research data, present findings to scientific colleagues at workshops and conferences, and prepare your research for publication in scientific journals.
• You will collaborate with a research team at ETH and other institutions.
• Your research will involve international travel for U/Th dating of stalagmites and for training in model-data comparisons.
• You will enhance your skills by completing the required courses (12 KP) in disciplinary and transversal skills.
• All PhD students must dedicate up to 10% of their employment time to service within the department, typically by contributing to teaching activities, helping to develop communication and management skills.

Profile

• You have completed a Master's Degree relevant to paleoclimate studies (e.g., Earth Science, or Atmosphere and Climate studies in Physics or Geography).
• You possess prior coursework experience in paleoclimate studies.
• You have experience in geochemistry laboratory analysis, including generating isotopic or trace element data.
• You demonstrate strong quantitative skills, comfort with coding, and good analytical thinking.
• You are committed to working in an interdisciplinary team that integrates climate modeling, geochemical process models, and innovative geochemical data.
• You are eager to improve your academic writing skills.

Workplace

This PhD project offers rich training opportunities in leading geochemistry laboratories, engagement with process models, and collaboration with results from climate general circulation models, all as part of an international team pioneering methodology. ETH provides exceptional analytical resources and technical support, along with regular co-writing retreats to assist researchers in the challenges of original scientific writing.

We Value Diversity and Sustainability

ETH Zurich is committed to fostering an inclusive culture, promoting equality of opportunity, valuing diversity, and ensuring a respectful working and learning environment for all staff and students. We continuously strive for sustainability and are dedicated to advancing towards a climate-neutral future.

Curious? So Are We!

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

If you have any questions regarding the position, please reach out to Prof. Heather Stoll at heather.stoll@eaps.ethz.ch (no applications).

About ETH Zurich

ETH Zurich stands as one of the world's leading universities specializing in science and technology. We are celebrated for our exceptional education, pioneering research, and the direct application of knowledge to societal needs. With over 30,000 individuals from more than 120 countries, our university fosters independent thinking and creates an environment that inspires excellence. Situated in the heart of Europe, ETH Zurich forges global connections aimed at addressing contemporary and future challenges.