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

This position is part of the NorSCAPE Project: -Norway Spruce in a Changing Climate: Adaptation, Acclimation, and Physiological Responses for Resilient Forests in Europe- for 2 years, with the possibility of extension. This project is conducted in collaboration with the COST Action CLEANFOREST.

Norway spruce (Picea abies) is essential to Europe's forests and forestry sector, currently facing increasing challenges due to climate change. This role presents an exciting opportunity to join the NorSCAPE project, which aims to unravel the physiological mechanisms underlying resilience and vulnerability across its distribution range. In collaboration with international partners and the ETH team, you will focus on researching the adaptation and acclimation potential of spruce through tree-ring analysis, stable isotope measurements across forests, and provenance trials, all aimed at informing forest management and policy in the context of global change. This project will be executed in close collaboration 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 into ongoing projects (e.g., OptFOREST network).
• Prepare innovative manuscripts and present results at international conferences.
• Mentor and train students at ETH.
• Contribute to activities associated with the COST Action.

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.
• You are curious, self-motivated, and enjoy close collaboration with your team.
• Strong communication skills in English, with a commitment to open and collaborative research are essential.

Workplace

At the Chair of Forest Ecology, in 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.
• Your work will have a meaningful impact: Become part of ETH Zurich, which supports your professional development while actively contributing to positive societal change.
• Numerous benefits, including public transport season tickets, car sharing, a wide range of sports offered by the 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 that respects the rights and dignity of all staff and students. We are committed to sustainability and are continuously working towards a climate-neutral future.

Curious? So Are We.

We look forward to receiving your online application using the form below. Please include the following documents:

• A motivation letter outlining your fit for the position and interest in the project.
• Your Curriculum Vitae.
• A list of publications.
• Contact information for two referees.

Only applications matching the job profile will be considered. For more information, please contact Dr. Valentina Vitali at ETH Zurich (valentina.vitali@usys.ethz.ch).

Start Date: February 2026, or upon agreement.

About ETH Zurich

ETH Zurich is among the world's leading universities specializing in science and technology. We are renowned for our excellent education, cutting-edge research, and the direct transfer of new knowledge into society. With over 30,000 individuals from more than 120 countries, our university fosters independent thinking and an environment that inspires excellence. Located in the heart of Europe, we collaborate globally to develop solutions for the challenges of today and tomorrow.