Postdoc in Tree Physiology and Growth for Forest Acclimation in a Changing Climate (Male / Female)

Postdoc in Tree Physiology and Growth for Forest Acclimation in a Changing Climate

100%, Zurich, fixed-term

The NorSCAPE Project - "Norway Spruce in a Changing Climate: Adaptation, Acclimation, and Physiological Responses for Resilient Forests in Europe" is seeking a postdoc for a two-year position with the possibility of extension. This initiative is in collaboration with the COST Action CLEANFOREST.

As a vital component of European forests and the forestry sector, Norway spruce (Picea abies) faces significant challenges due to climate change. This position provides an exciting opportunity to engage with the NorSCAPE project, aimed at unraveling the physiological mechanisms that influence resilience and vulnerability across its distribution range. You will work alongside international partners and the ETH team, focusing on the adaptation and acclimation potential of spruce through tree-ring analysis, stable isotope measurements, and provenance trials, contributing to informed forest management and policy in the context of global change. The project will be executed in close collaboration with the WSL and the Stable Isotope Research Laboratory in Birmensdorf.

Job Description

• Coordinate field sampling and experimental activities across international networks.
• Lead dendrochronological and stable isotope analyses to assess growth, water-use efficiency, and physiological acclimation in Norway spruce.
• Analyze intra-annual growth and isotopic signals in relation to drought and environmental gradients.
• Collaborate with European partners to support the integration of NorSCAPE into ongoing projects (e.g., OptFOREST network).
• Prepare innovative manuscripts and present results at international conferences.
• Support the mentoring and training of students at ETH.
• Contribute to activities associated with the COST Action.

Profile

• PhD in forest ecology, plant physiology, environmental sciences, or a related field.
• Strong background in dendrochronology, stable isotope analysis, or ecophysiology.
• Demonstrated experience with ecological datasets, statistical analysis, and/or provenance trial experiments.
• Excellent organizational, communication, and collaborative skills within international, multidisciplinary networks.
• Willingness to travel for fieldwork across Europe.
• Curiosity and self-motivation with a penchant for close collaboration with your team.
• Strong communication skills in English and a commitment to open, collaborative research.

Workplace

The position is based at ETH Zurich, a leading institution known for its dedication to research excellence and collaborative efforts in shaping global solutions.

We Offer

• A dynamic, supportive, and interdisciplinary research environment.
• The opportunity to contribute to international efforts impacting the future of European forests.
• Mentorship from leading scientists and collaboration with an extensive European research network.
• Close collaboration with the WSL and the Stable Isotope Research Laboratory.
• Impactful work as part of ETH Zurich, which actively supports professional development and societal progress.
• A range of benefits, including public transport season tickets, car sharing, diverse sports programs, childcare options, and attractive pension benefits.

We Value Diversity and Sustainability

ETH Zurich is committed to fostering an inclusive culture, promoting equality of opportunity, and nurturing a work environment that respects the rights and dignity of all staff and students. Visit our Equal Opportunities and Diversity website to learn about our commitment to creating a fair and open environment where everyone can thrive. Sustainability is a core value for us as we work towards a climate-neutral future.

Curious? So Are We!

We look forward to your online application using the form below. Please include the following documents:

• A motivation letter outlining your fit for the position and interest in the project.
• Your Curriculum Vitae.
• A list of publications.
• Contact information for two referees.

Only applications matching the job profile will be considered.

Start Date: February 2026, or upon agreement.

About ETH Zurich

ETH Zurich is recognized as one of the world's leading universities specializing in science and technology. Renowned for its exceptional education and cutting-edge research, our university promotes independent thinking and fosters an environment that inspires excellence. With a diverse community of over 30,000 individuals from more than 120 countries, we are dedicated to developing solutions for the global challenges of today and tomorrow.