Postdoc on partitioning forest CO2 and water vapour fluxes / Postdoc on partitioning forest CO2 and water vapour fluxes

Postdoc on Partitioning Forest CO2 and Water Vapour Fluxes

100%, Zurich, fixed-term

The Grassland Sciences group at ETH Zurich is a dynamic and international team within the Department of Environmental Systems Science. We are searching for a reliable, enthusiastic, and highly motivated postdoc with a passion for science to join our research efforts in Zurich. Our focus lies on understanding the process and system dynamics of biosphere-atmosphere greenhouse gas exchange in forests and agroecosystems, particularly in response to management practices and climate variables.

Project Background

This position is part of a collaborative project between ETH Zurich, WSL (Dr. Roman Zweifel), and CzechGlobe titled Innovative Technologies Cross Scales to Disentangle Carbon Dioxide and Evapotranspiration Fluxes of Forests (INETFLUX). Our goal is to develop and validate innovative approaches for partitioning net ecosystem CO2 fluxes and evapotranspiration into their individual components—gross primary production (GPP) and ecosystem respiration, as well as transpiration and evaporation. Additionally, we will identify the environmental drivers regulating these processes. The project will utilize machine learning techniques (XGBoost, SHAP analyses) for flux partitioning alongside existing tree dendrometer and sap flow measurements, supported by stable isotopes in tree rings. The research sites will be located in Switzerland and the Czech Republic.

Job Description

Your primary responsibilities will include:

• Developing knowledge-guided machine learning approaches to partition existing forest flux datasets across Europe.
• Identifying flux drivers and their temporal developments to better understand forest responses to climate and extreme events.
• Compiling tree dendrometer and sap flow data as additional constraints for flux partitioning.
• Overseeing one eddy covariance flux station within the Swiss FluxNet.
• Presenting results and contributing to publications.
• Completing a 3-month stage at CzechGlobe.
• Assisting in knowledge exchange and capacity building within the project, including workshops, training visits, and co-supervision of doctoral students.

The position is funded for up to three years, and salary and social benefits will be provided according to ETH Zurich regulations.

Profile

• PhD or doctoral degree with a strong research background in micrometeorology, greenhouse gas exchange, tree, and/or ecosystem physiology.
• Relevant research experience, whether through observations, modeling, or statistical analyses.
• Excellent command of large data analyses and very good English language skills are mandatory.
• A driver's license is required.
• Experience in knowledge exchange and student supervision is an advantage.

Workplace

The successful candidate will benefit from our supportive work environment at ETH Zurich, where your contributions will have a meaningful impact. We offer numerous perks, including public transport season tickets, car sharing options, access to a wide range of sports provided by the ASVZ, childcare services, and attractive pension benefits.

We Value Diversity and Sustainability

ETH Zurich is committed to fostering an inclusive culture that promotes equality of opportunity and values diversity. We strive to maintain a working and learning environment where the rights and dignity of all staff and students are respected. Sustainability is a core value for us, and we continuously work toward a climate-neutral future.

Apply Online

Ready to take the next step? Apply online using the form below. Please be advised that only applications matching the job profile will be considered.

For additional information about the Grassland Sciences group, please visit our website. Questions regarding the position can be directed to Prof. Dr. Nina Buchmann via email at nina.buchmann@usys.ethz.ch (applications will not be accepted via this email).

About ETH Zurich

ETH Zurich is one of the world's leading universities specializing in science and technology. We are renowned for our excellent education, cutting-edge research, and the direct transfer of new knowledge to society. With over 30,000 individuals from more than 120 countries, our university fosters independent thinking and an environment that inspires excellence. Located in the heart of Europe and connected globally, we work together to develop solutions for today's and tomorrow's global challenges.