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

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

100%, Zurich, fixed-term

We invite applications for the position in the NorSCAPE Project: "Norway Spruce in a Changing Climate: Adaptation, Acclimation, and Physiological Responses for Resilient Forests in Europe," for a duration of 2 years, with the possibility of extension. This project is part of a collaboration with the COSTAction CLEANFOREST.

Norway spruce (Picea abies) is a cornerstone of Europe's forests and forestry sector, facing increasing challenges from climate change. This position offers an exciting opportunity to join the NorSCAPE project, which aims to unravel the physiological mechanisms underlying resilience and vulnerability across its distribution range. Working alongside international partners and the ETH team, your role in this project will involve research on the adaptation and acclimation potential of spruce, utilizing tree-ring analysis and stable isotope measurements across forests and provenance trials. This collaborative project will be carried out in close partnership 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 in 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 COSTAction.

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.
• Curious, self-motivated, and enjoy collaborating closely with your team.
• Strong communication skills in English and a commitment to open and collaborative research are essential.

Workplace

At the chair of forest ecology, within the group focused on forest growth and global change, we provide:

• A dynamic, supportive, and interdisciplinary research environment.
• The opportunity to contribute to international efforts shaping 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.
• A position with impact: Join ETH Zurich, which not only supports your professional development but also actively contributes to positive societal change.
• Numerous benefits such as public transport season tickets, car sharing options, a wide range of sports programs offered by ASVZ, childcare, and attractive pension benefits.

We Value Diversity and Sustainability

ETH Zurich fosters an inclusive culture that promotes equality of opportunity and values diversity. We nurture an environment where the rights and dignity of all staff and students are respected. For more information, please visit our Equal Opportunities and Diversity website. We also prioritize sustainability as a core value, continuously striving towards a climate-neutral future.

Curious? So Are We.

To apply, please apply online using the form below. Only applications matching the job profile will be considered.

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 fundamental research, and the direct transfer of new knowledge into society. With over 30,000 people from more than 120 countries, our university promotes independent thinking and cultivates an environment that inspires excellence. Located in the heart of Europe and forging connections globally, we strive collaboratively to develop solutions for the global challenges of today and tomorrow.