Postdoctoral Researcher in Phenotyping of Crop Mixtures / Postdoctoral Researcheress in Phenotyping of Crop Mixtures

Postdoc Position in Phenotyping of Crop Mixtures (PhenoMix Project)

100%, Zurich, fixed-term

This postdoctoral position is part of the PhenoMix project—Multidimensional Field Phenotyping of Crop Mixtures—supported by the Swiss National Science Foundation. This role will be hosted by the Crop Science group, a dynamic and interdisciplinary team within the Institute of Agricultural Sciences at the Department of Environmental Systems Science at ETH Zurich. Our group is focused on pioneering methods and models to assess traits crucial for crop breeding and variety testing.

Project Background

PhenoMix is a collaborative initiative among four research groups at ETH Zurich, the Swiss Data Science Center, and Agroscope. The project's core objective is to validate the hypothesis that cutting-edge high-throughput field phenotyping (HTFP) technology, combined with plant physiological assessments and data science, can effectively identify genotypes that are ideally suited for agroecologically beneficial legume-cereal mixtures. Various varieties of pea, lentil, wheat, oats, and barley will be cultivated under our field phenotyping platform in experimental and farmer fields. The work packages of PhenoMix cover phenotyping, plant ecophysiology, data science, and agro-economic assessments, involving four doctoral students, two postdocs, and multiple technicians. The postdoc focused on Phenotyping of Crop Mixtures will coordinate significant activities of the PhenoMix project, assisting in data collection, enhancing phenotyping workflows, and developing a field robot for efficient phenotyping.

Job Description

This postdoctoral role plays a vital part in the broader project, with specific tasks aligned with individual skills and interests and in collaboration with another postdoctoral position in data science and a doctoral student in Crop Phenotyping.

Key responsibilities of this position include:

• Co-designing and coordinating field experiments and work plans for HTFP data collection.
• Participating in field work to collect HTFP data using various phenotyping devices, including the FIP (multi-view RGB imaging), drones, handheld, and manual devices.
• Contributing to the design and/or construction of a phenotyping robot capable of acquiring data from RGB cameras and potentially other sensors.
• Developing models to predict optimal cereal-legume combinations.
• Supervising and mentoring students from BSc to PhD levels.
• Assisting in the delivery of lectures or seminars for the Crop Science group.
• Publishing research outcomes in peer-reviewed journals and presenting at national and international conferences.
• Engaging with international research networks and pursuing funding opportunities.
• Initial contract duration is two years, with the possibility of extension based on satisfactory performance.
• Salary and social benefits will be provided according to ETH Zurich regulations.

Profile

• A PhD in agricultural sciences or a related field.
• Several years of research experience in field crop phenotyping.
• Strong statistical and programming skills (e.g., R or Python).
• Evidence of research excellence demonstrated through peer-reviewed publications.
• A keen interest in teaching, mentoring, teamwork, and project coordination.
• A valid driver's license.
• Proficient oral communication skills in German are advantageous.

Workplace

You will be part of a leading institution where you can actively contribute to impactful research within a supportive environment.

We Offer

• An impactful role within ETH Zurich, an institution committed to your professional development and societal improvement.
• Numerous benefits including public transport season tickets, car-sharing options, diverse sports offerings via ASVZ, childcare services, and attractive pension plans.

Commitment to Diversity and Sustainability

ETH Zurich fosters an inclusive culture, promoting equality of opportunity and embracing diversity. We strive for a working and learning environment that respects the rights and dignity of all staff and students. Sustainability is at the core of our values, as we continually work towards a climate-neutral future.

Curious? So Are We.

Apply online using the form below. Only applications matching the job profile will be considered.

For further information about the Crop Science group and the PhenoMix project, please visit the respective websites. Questions regarding the position can be directed to Prof. Dr. Achim Walter at achim.walter@usys.ethz.ch.

About ETH Zurich

ETH Zurich is one of the world’s leading universities specializing in science and technology. Renowned for its excellent education, groundbreaking research, and effective knowledge transfer to society, ETH Zurich is home to over 30,000 individuals from more than 120 countries, fostering independent thought and an inspiring environment for excellence. Located in the heart of Europe while forging global connections, we collaboratively tackle today’s and tomorrow’s challenges.