PhD Candidate in Tropical Organic Geochemistry / PhD Candidate in Tropical Organic Geochemistry

PhD Position in Tropical Organic Geochemistry: Modern and Ancient Microbial Drivers of Biogeochemical Cycling

100%, Zurich, fixed-term

We are seeking a highly motivated PhD student for a multidisciplinary project across two research groups at ETH Zurich:

• The Surface Earth Evolution (SEE) group: Focuses on investigating the processes that drive global climate change over human to geologic timescales.
• The Sustainable Agroecosystems (SAE) group: Dedicated to ensuring that healthy food reaches tables around the world for generations to come.

Our work intersects traditional Earth and environmental science fields to holistically study the drivers and impacts of changing climate and land use. We effectively integrate field-based sample collection and monitoring with lab-based biogeochemical measurements.

Project Background

This position is part of the SNSF-funded project titled Constraining tropical wetland greenhouse gas production today and through time: insights from Tumba-Ngiri-Maindombe, Democratic Republic of Congo (LacMai). The objective is to mechanistically understand the climatic and anthropogenic controls on greenhouse gas emissions (i.e., carbon dioxide, methane, and nitrous oxide) in the Tumba-Ngiri-Maindombe region, one of the largest tropical wetlands.

As a PhD student, you will lead the biomarker component of this interdisciplinary project. Utilizing state-of-the-art organic geochemical techniques, you will identify and reconstruct how biogeochemical cycles and microbial communities have responded to climatic shifts over the past 12,000 years (the Holocene).

Job Description

• Fieldwork: Engage in sampling expeditions to DR Congo to collect high-resolution, pristine sediment records from Lake Mai Ndombe and surrounding peatlands, ensuring appropriate preservation for organic geochemical analyses.
• Sediment Description: Collaborate with ETH Zurich's advanced radiocarbon facility to build lake sediment and peat-core age models, interpreting the evolution of sediment sources and accumulation rates over the Holocene.
• Ecosystem Reconstruction: Use ancient pollen and charcoal signals preserved in sediments to determine how climate and landscape vegetation have changed over the Holocene.
• Biomarker Analysis: Extract and quantify sedimentary biomarkers diagnostic of specific greenhouse gas-producing and -consuming microorganisms, reconstructing how greenhouse gas cycling has evolved.
• Communication: Present findings at international conferences, workshops, and author scientific papers.

This position is integral to the research team, consisting of 2 PhD students, 2 senior scientists, and several technicians across both research groups. You will lead these tasks while receiving support from all involved PIs and researchers. This multidisciplinary team offers the opportunity to learn, develop, and apply scientific skills beyond traditional organic geochemistry!

Profile

• Education: MSc degree in geochemistry, geology, or a related field.
• Wet-lab Experience: Familiarity with geochemical and/or sedimentological techniques (e.g., organic or inorganic isotope analysis). Prior experience working with biomarkers or in a similarly controlled laboratory environment is a strong asset.
• Computational Skills: Experience with data reduction and analysis techniques (e.g., statistical methods, numerical models) is highly desirable.
• Remote Fieldwork: Willingness to conduct fieldwork in a remote tropical environment.
• Communication: Proficiency in written and spoken English, with the ability to communicate in a cross-cultural environment. Knowledge of French is a plus for fieldwork.
• Personal Attributes: Ability to work independently with flexibility, critical thinking, and a willingness to learn new skills.

Workplace

Our workplace is characterized by excellent working conditions, a strong international network, and a commitment to inclusivity and sustainability.

We Offer

• A fully funded 4-year PhD position embedded in the SEE group.
• The opportunity to work in a unique, understudied region of high scientific and climatic value.
• Excellent, inclusive working conditions with an internationally competitive salary, paid according to ETH standards.

We Value Diversity and Sustainability

In line with our values, ETH Zurich is committed to fostering an inclusive culture. We promote equality of opportunity, value diversity, and nurture an environment where the rights and dignity of all staff and students are respected. Visit our Equal Opportunities and Diversity website to learn more about our commitment to creating a fair and supportive environment. Sustainability is also a core value; we actively work towards a climate-neutral future.

Curious? So Are We!

We look forward to receiving your online application using the form below. Only applications matching the job profile will be considered.

If you have questions regarding the position, please reach out to Prof. Jordon D. Hemingway at jordon.hemingway@eaps.ethz.ch.

About ETH Zurich

ETH Zurich is among the world’s leading universities specializing in science and technology. We are renowned for our outstanding education, cutting-edge research, and direct transfer of knowledge into society. The university, comprising over 30,000 people from more than 120 countries, promotes independent thinking and fosters an inspiring environment for excellence. Situated in Europe, we work collaboratively to develop innovative solutions for the global challenges of today and tomorrow.