PhD Student (Male) / PhD Student (Female)

PhD Student - Passenger Behavioural Response to Planned Railway Maintenance Disruptions

100%, Zurich, Fixed-term

The Chair of Transportation and Mobility Planning, led by Professor Dr. Eva Heinen within the Institute for Transport Planning and Systems of the Department of Civil, Environmental and Geomatic Engineering (D-BAUG), is seeking a qualified PhD candidate for an exciting research project.

Project Background

Railway infrastructure plays a crucial role in the efficient movement of people and goods. However, the capacity of this system can be significantly reduced or interrupted due to maintenance interventions. These interventions, which vary from condition monitoring to major renewals and expansions, require careful planning and execution, often leading to modifications in traffic and timetables that directly impact passengers.

There exists a limited understanding of how passengers respond to planned railway maintenance disruptions. These disruptions can lead to extended travel times, additional transfers, reduced train frequency, delays, crowded conditions, and alternative transport solutions, such as bus services. Such factors can, in turn, influence a passenger's decision to travel, choice of route, mode of transport, and even the destination itself.

To effectively analyze the impact of various maintenance scenarios on passenger behavior, factors such as individual preferences, time constraints, mode substitution, trip purposes, and seasonal variances must be considered. Furthermore, there is currently no established methodology for assessing the long-term effects of service disruptions on passenger demand, which could impact the overall reputation and public support for railway operators.

This project aims to develop revealed and stated preference surveys, estimating both short- and long-term passenger responses to various operational maintenance scenarios. The results will inform other aspects of the project and enhance decision-making processes regarding railway maintenance interventions.

Job Description

The successful doctoral candidate will:

• Review existing literature on the impact of railway disruptions on passenger responses (both short- and long-term)
• Develop longitudinal revealed preference surveys and stated preference experiments
• Model both stated and observed passenger responses, obtaining elasticities for various effects of maintenance disruptions on service quality
• Create a methodology to assess the long-term impacts of experienced disruptions on the trust and reputation of railway operators, along with its effects on public support for railway investments
• Engage regularly with other research groups to align research outcomes

In addition to contributing to this research project, we expect the candidate to:

• Participate in ongoing research projects and assist in acquiring new research opportunities
• Contribute to teaching and examinations
• Authorship of research papers in high-impact journals and successful completion and defense of a doctoral dissertation related to the core research project

Profile

• MSc degree in transportation, civil engineering, computer science, spatial planning, geography, geoinformation, psychology, economics, or equivalent qualification
• MSc certificate must be obtained prior to commencement
• Experience with discrete choice modeling and/or survey design
• Fluency in English is essential; knowledge of German is an asset due to collaboration with Swiss project partners
• Familiarity with data analysis and programming (e.g., R, Python, GIS software, Stata) is desirable
• A passion for scientific research
• Self-motivated, organized, and responsible in task fulfillment
• Strong communication skills and ability to work effectively in a team

Workplace

As part of ETH Zurich, you will be immersed in a dynamic and innovative environment that champions research and collaboration.

We Offer

• Join ETH Zurich, an institution that supports your professional development while contributing positively to society.
• Be part of our commitment to sustainability and a climate-neutral university.
• Enjoy multiple benefits, including public transport season tickets, car-sharing options, a comprehensive sports program, childcare services, and attractive pension schemes.

We Value Diversity and Sustainability

ETH Zurich fosters an inclusive culture that emphasizes equality of opportunity. We value diversity and are dedicated to nurturing a working and learning environment where the rights and dignity of all staff and students are respected. To learn more about our commitment to inclusivity, please visit our Equal Opportunities and Diversity website.

Curious? So Are We!

If you are interested, please apply online using the form below. Only applications matching the job profile will be considered. We look forward to reviewing your application!

Further information about the Institute can be found on our website. For questions regarding the position, please reach out to Prof. Dr. Eva Heinen at eheinen@ethz.ch (no applications via email). Interviews will be scheduled with shortlisted candidates by the end of August 2026.

This position is anticipated to begin in January or early February 2027, with an initial contract duration of 18 months, followed by a review after one year to assess continuation. The overall doctoral project is expected to be completed within four years.

About ETH Zurich

ETH Zurich is among the world’s leading universities specializing in science and technology. Known for our excellent education and innovative research, we directly translate new knowledge into societal advancements. With over 30,000 individuals from more than 120 countries, ETH Zurich encourages independent thinking and fosters a stimulating academic environment. Situated in the heart of Europe, we are engaged in addressing global challenges for today and the future.