PhD Position: Seismic Detection, Localization and Characterization of Explosion Events in Underground Ammunition Storage Facilities (Male / Female)

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 initiative with armasuisse Science and Technology and various industry partners, as well as the Swiss Armed Forces, contributing to the scientific foundation of monitoring systems and rapid alerting systems for underground infrastructures.

Project Background

Seismic and fiber-optic sensing technologies present promising solutions for real-time detection, localization, and characterization of explosions and other 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, managed by ETH Zurich, and the Hondrich underground test facilities operated by armasuisse. The project will span from 2026 to 2029 and will involve 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 in the BedrettoLab; evaluate 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, assist in field installations, calibrate velocity models with controlled test events, and ensure quality control of data acquisition.
• Algorithm Development: Integrate multi-sensor data streams into seismological software frameworks (e.g., SeisComP); model wave propagation in complex 3D geometries; develop and optimize event detection algorithms, high-precision localization methods, event magnitude, and source characterization techniques; contribute to the implementation of real-time alarm systems.
• Cost-Optimized Alarm System Implementation: Conduct cost-benefit optimization of reduced sensor layouts, develop easy-to-use monitoring concepts for future underground facilities, and engage with various stakeholders—engineering companies, Swiss Armed Forces, armasuisse, and international collaborators—to ensure an efficient system rollout.

Profile

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

Workplace

The candidate will be based at ETH Zurich and will engage with a multidisciplinary project consortium involving 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 that integrates research, field experiments, and real-world applications.
• Opportunities for publications and participation in international conferences.
• Excellent analytical and strong communication skills, ideally in German and English.

Supervision and Environment

The candidate will receive supervision from senior scientists at the Swiss Seismological Service, ETH Zurich, and will work collaboratively within a multidisciplinary project consortium, including public authorities and industry partners.

We Value Diversity and Sustainability

At ETH Zurich, we foster an inclusive culture that promotes equal opportunities and values diversity. We are committed to ensuring a working and learning environment that respects the rights and dignity of all staff and students. For more information on how we create a fair and open workplace, please visit our Equal Opportunities and Diversity website. Sustainability is a core value of ours, and we consistently work towards a climate-neutral future.

Curious? So Are We.

We look forward to receiving your online application using the form below.

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 research, and direct transfer of knowledge into society, it attracts over 30,000 individuals from more than 120 countries. Located in the heart of Europe, we forge global connections and collaborate to develop solutions for the challenges of today and tomorrow.

Only applications matching the job profile will be considered.