Postdoctoral Researcher on Partitioning Forest CO2 and Water Vapour Fluxes / Postdoctoral Researcheress on Partitioning Forest CO2 and Water Vapour Fluxes

Postdoc Opportunity: Partitioning Forest CO2 and Water Vapour Fluxes

Location: 100%, Zurich, fixed-term

The Grassland Sciences group at ETH Zurich is a dynamic and globally-focused team within the Department of Environmental Systems Science. We are seeking a reliable, enthusiastic, and highly motivated postdoc with a passion for scientific research to join our team in Zurich. Our research is centered on understanding the biosphere-atmosphere exchange of greenhouse gases in forests and agroecosystems, particularly concerning their responses to management and climate.

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 to partition net ecosystem CO2 fluxes and evapotranspiration into their constituent components—gross primary production (GPP) and ecosystem respiration, as well as transpiration and evaporation. We aim to identify the environmental drivers regulating these processes through the application of machine learning techniques (XGBoost, SHAP analyses), complemented by existing tree dendrometer and sap flow measurements, as well as stable isotopes in tree rings. Our 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 analyze forest flux datasets across Europe
• Identifying flux drivers and tracking their temporal development to understand forest responses to climate and extreme events
• Compiling tree dendrometer and sap flow data as additional constraints for flux partitioning
• Managing one eddy-covariance flux station within the Swiss FluxNet
• Presenting research findings and contributing to publications
• Participating in a 3-month stage at CzechGlobe
• Facilitating knowledge exchange and capacity building within the project, including workshops, training visits, and co-supervision of doctoral students

The position is funded for a duration of up to three years, with a salary and social benefits in accordance with ETH Zurich policies.

Profile

• A PhD or doctoral degree with a strong research background in micrometeorology, greenhouse gas exchange, tree and/or ecosystem physiology
• Relevant research experience in observations, modeling, or statistical analysis
• Excellent skills in large data analyses and proficient English language abilities
• A valid driver’s license
• Experience in knowledge exchange and student supervision is advantageous

Workplace

ETH Zurich provides a vibrant workplace that encourages innovation and collaboration among diverse talent. Our commitment to inclusivity fosters an environment where all staff and students can thrive.

We Offer

• Impactful work: Join ETH Zurich, an institution dedicated to your professional development and actively contributing to societal improvement.
• A variety of benefits, including public transport season tickets, car sharing options, extensive sports activities provided by ASVZ, childcare services, and attractive pension plans.

Valuing Diversity and Sustainability

ETH Zurich is dedicated to promoting an inclusive culture that values equal opportunity and diversity. We strive to create a working and learning environment that respects the rights and dignity of all individuals. For more information on our commitment to equality and sustainability, please visit our Equal Opportunities and Diversity webpage.

Curious? So Are We!

We invite you to apply online using the form below. Only applications matching the job profile will be considered. The application deadline is 1 April 2026. Please include the following documents:

• Letter of motivation
• CV with publication list
• Transcripts of Bachelor's, Master's, and PhD/doctoral studies
• Contact information for two referees

The anticipated starting date for this position is 1 July 2026 (or upon mutual agreement). For further inquiries regarding the Grassland Sciences group, please visit our website. Questions about the position can be directed to Prof. Dr. Nina Buchmann at nina.buchmann@usys.ethz.ch (no applications).

About ETH Zurich

ETH Zurich is a leading university globally recognized for its excellence in science and technology. We pride ourselves on providing outstanding education, cutting-edge research, and effective knowledge transfer to society. With over 30,000 individuals from more than 120 countries, our university promotes independent thinking and an inspiring environment that fosters excellence. Located at the heart of Europe, we collaborate globally to address today’s and tomorrow’s challenges.