PhD Candidate in Seismic Detection, Localization and Characterization of Explosion Events in Underground Ammunition Storage Facilities

PhD Position: Seismic Detection, Localization and Characterization of Explosion Events in Underground Ammunition Storage Facilities

100%, Zurich, fixed-term

The Swiss Seismological Service (SED) at ETH Zurich invites applications for a PhD position within a multi-year applied research project focused on the detection, localization, and interpretation of explosion events in underground ammunition storage facilities. This position is part of a collaborative project with armasuisse Science and Technology, industry partners, and the Swiss Armed Forces. The research aims to enhance the scientific foundation of monitoring and alert systems for underground infrastructure.

Project Background

Seismic and fiber-optic sensing technologies present promising solutions for real-time detection, localization, and characterization of explosions and related hazardous events in underground facilities. The project aims to evaluate sensor technologies, design and optimize multi-sensor monitoring networks, and develop advanced detection and localization algorithms tailored to complex 3D underground geometries.

This research will be conducted in close collaboration between BedrettoLab, operated by ETH, and the Hondrich underground test facilities managed by armasuisse. The project will run from 2026 to 2029 and will encompass experimental campaigns, field installations, data collection, data processing, algorithm development, and system optimization.

Job Description

• Experimental Campaigns and Sensor Evaluation: Design and analysis of controlled test explosions at BedrettoLab; evaluation of seismic sensors including various types of seismometers and distributed acoustic sensing technology.
• Design and Installation of a Multi-Sensor Monitoring Network: Define optimal sensor geometry, contribute to field installations, calibrate velocity models using controlled test events, and ensure quality control of data acquisition at Hondrich test facilities.
• Algorithm Development: Integrate multi-sensor data streams into seismological software frameworks (such as SeisComP), model wave propagation in complex 3D geometries, develop and optimize event detection algorithms, implement high-precision localization methods, and contribute to real-time alarm system development.
• Contributions to Alarm System Implementation: Conduct cost-benefit optimization of reduced sensor layouts, optimize user-friendly monitoring concepts for future underground facilities, and collaborate with stakeholders such as engineering companies, Swiss Armed Forces, armasuisse, and international partners for efficient system rollout.

Profile

• MSc degree in Geophysics, Seismology, Earth Sciences, Physics, Engineering, or a related field.
• Strong quantitative and analytical skills, along with programming proficiency (Python required; experience with seismic data processing is a plus).
• Initial experience in seismic data analysis and/or wave propagation modeling is advantageous.
• Willingness to participate in field campaigns in underground facilities.
• Interest in field experiments and applied research.
• Practical mindset for efficient project implementation.
• Motivation to work in an interdisciplinary and practice-oriented environment.

Workplace

The candidate will be employed at ETH Zurich, benefiting from collaborative research efforts within a multidisciplinary project consortium that includes public authorities and industry partners.

We Offer

• A fully funded PhD position (up to 4 years).
• Employment according to ETH Zurich regulations.
• Access to the Bedretto Underground Laboratory.
• A collaborative environment bridging research, field experiments, and practical applications.
• Opportunities for publications and participation in international conferences.
• Excellent analytical skills.
• Strong communication skills, ideally in German and English.

Supervision and Environment

The selected candidate will be supervised by senior scientists at the Swiss Seismological Service, ETH Zurich. They will work within a multidisciplinary project consortium that includes public authorities and industry partners.

We Value Diversity and Sustainability

ETH Zurich is committed to fostering an inclusive culture where equality of opportunity is a priority. We value diversity and nurture a working and learning environment that respects the rights and dignity of all staff and students. Learn more about our commitment to building a fair and open environment where everyone can thrive on our Equal Opportunities and Diversity website. Sustainability is integral to our mission, and we continually strive towards a climate-neutral future.

Curious? So Are We.

We invite you to apply online using the form below. Only applications matching the job profile will be considered.

• Motivation letter
• CV
• Academic transcripts
• Contact details of 2-3 references

For more information about BedrettoLab, please visit our website. Questions regarding the position should be directed to Dr. Valentin Gischig at valentin.gischig@eaps.ethz.ch (no applications).

Preferred start date: July 2026 or as soon as possible.

About ETH Zurich

ETH Zurich is one of the world’s leading universities specializing in science and technology. Renowned for its excellent education, cutting-edge fundamental research, and direct transfer of knowledge into society, ETH attracts over 30,000 individuals from more than 120 countries. Our university fosters independent thinking and inspires excellence. Located in the heart of Europe, we collaborate globally to develop solutions for the challenges of today and tomorrow.