Postdoctoral Researcher in Ecohydraulics and Drift in Riverine Systems / Postdoctoral Researcheress in Ecohydraulics and Drift in Riverine Systems

Postdoctoral Position in "Ecohydraulics and Drift in Riverine Systems"

100%, Zurich, Fixed-term

The Chair of Groundwater and Hydromechanics at the Institute for Environmental Engineering (IfU), ETH Zürich, is looking for a highly motivated postdoctoral researcher with experience in planning and conducting fieldwork. The selected candidate will be part of an interdisciplinary research project focused on riverine ecosystems, funded by the Swiss National Science Foundation (SNSF) and led by Dr. Luiz G. M. Silva within the group of Prof. Roman Stocker. This project aims to develop a new-generation underwater imaging device designed to transform drift studies in riverine ecosystems and involves collaboration with Associate Professor Jenni Raitoharju from the University of Jyväskylä, Finland.

Keywords: ecohydraulics, Riverine Organism Drift Imager, artificial intelligence, imaging, aquatic biota

Project Background

Many small riverine organisms depend on flow-mediated processes to complete their life cycles. One of these processes, known as drift, is essential for the downstream dispersal of aquatic invertebrates and fish larvae. Although the significance of drift is well recognized, many underlying dynamics—especially spatial and temporal variability—remain poorly quantified due to limitations in current sampling strategies, which are often labor-intensive and lack resolution.

This project aims to address these challenges by developing the Riverine Organism Drift Imager (RODI), a breakthrough technology designed to continuously detect, classify, and quantify drifting organisms in situ. This camera-based underwater imaging system will enable drift studies at unprecedented temporal and spatial scales, bridging engineering, imaging, and aquatic ecology to transform how we study these vital processes.

Job Description

The primary focus of this postdoctoral position is the application of the RODI to explore scientific questions related to macroinvertebrate and fish larval drift. Research themes include drift dynamics under varying flow regimes, hydropower impacts, mitigation and restoration measures, and drift-related foraging strategies.

The successful candidate will have the opportunity to work with and further develop a pioneering underwater imaging device that is set to innovate drift studies and freshwater monitoring.

Key Responsibilities include:

• Deploying, operating, and maintaining RODI at selected field sites in Switzerland and internationally (with a particular focus on Finland).
• Developing and leading innovative research ideas that utilize RODI for fundamental and applied drift studies.
• Testing, benchmarking, and validating RODI as a drift sampling tool against traditional sampling methods.
• Contributing to the development and application of machine-learning models tailored to RODI data in collaboration with project partners.
• Designing and implementing an innovative image-based database to manage and curate data from live organisms sampled with RODI.
• Contributing to the iterative improvement of RODI, including hardware and software enhancements based on field and analytical feedback.
• Authoring and co-authoring peer-reviewed scientific publications and presenting results at international conferences.

Profile

• PhD in Environmental Science, Environmental Engineering, Ecology, Ecohydraulics, or a related discipline.
• Demonstrated experience in planning and conducting fieldwork in freshwater ecosystems.
• Strong skills in data management, visualization, and quantitative analysis.
• Experience with statistical modeling; familiarity with machine-learning approaches is a plus, but not mandatory.
• Excellent written and spoken English communication skills.
• A genuine interest in interdisciplinary research and the ability to thrive in a dynamic research environment.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively within an international research team.
• Willingness to travel for field deployments nationally and internationally.

The ideal candidate should be available to start the position as soon as possible, with a target start date of May 2026 or earlier.

Workplace

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We Offer

• A 2-year postdoctoral position.
• An interdisciplinary and international research environment, offering a unique opportunity to collaborate with researchers from various disciplines.
• The chance to work with a groundbreaking imaging device tailored for studying drift in riverine ecosystems.
• Access to an extensive network within the field of Ecohydraulics.
• Opportunities for scientific independence, visibility, and career development.
• Access to world-class ML/AI specialists in the intersection of freshwater science.
• Competitive remuneration and employment conditions in accordance with ETH Zurich regulations.

We Value Diversity and Sustainability

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

Curious? So Are We.

To apply online, use the form below. Please note that only applications matching the job profile will be considered.