Postdoctoral Researcher 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

Join the NorSCAPE Project: Norway Spruce in a Changing Climate: Adaptation, Acclimation, and Physiological Responses for Resilient Forests in Europe, a collaborative endeavor with the COSTAction CLEANFOREST. This position offers a thrilling opportunity for a duration of 2 years, with the potential for extension.

Norway spruce (Picea abies) is a cornerstone of Europe’s forests and forestry sector, facing increasing challenges from climate change. The NorSCAPE project aims to unravel the physiological mechanisms underlying resilience and vulnerability across its distribution range. In collaboration with international partners and the ETH team, your role will focus on researching the adaptation and acclimation potential of spruce. This will include tree-ring analysis, stable isotope measurements across forests, and provenance trials to inform forest management and policy in the context of global change. This project will closely collaborate 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.

Workplace

At the Chair of Forest Ecology, within the group of forest growth and global change, we offer:

• 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 role that impacts society: become part of ETH Zurich, which not only supports your professional development but also actively contributes to positive societal change.
• Numerous benefits, including public transport season tickets, car sharing, a wide range of sports through ASVZ, childcare, and attractive pension benefits.

We Value Diversity and Sustainability

In line with our values, ETH Zurich encourages an inclusive culture. We promote equality of opportunity, value diversity, and nurture a working and learning environment where the rights and dignity of all staff and students are respected. Visit our Equal Opportunities and Diversity website to learn how we ensure a fair and open environment that allows everyone to thrive. Sustainability is a core value for us, and we are continuously working toward a climate-neutral future.

Curious? So Are We.

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

Start Date: February 2026, or upon agreement.

For further information, please contact Dr. Valentina Vitali, ETH Zurich at valentina.vitali@usys.ethz.ch.

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 direct transfer of new knowledge into society. Over 30,000 people from more than 120 countries find our university to be a place that promotes independent thinking and inspires excellence. Located in the heart of Europe, yet forging connections all over the world, we work together to develop solutions for the global challenges of today and tomorrow.