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 for a two-year term, with a possibility of extension. This project is in collaboration with the COST Action CLEANFOREST.

Norway spruce (Picea abies) is foundational to Europe's forests and forestry sector, facing increasing challenges due to climate change. This position presents an exciting opportunity to engage in the NorSCAPE project, which endeavors to unravel the physiological mechanisms that underpin resilience and vulnerability across its distribution range. Collaborating closely with international partners and the ETH team, you will conduct research on the adaptation and acclimation potential of spruce through tree-ring analysis, stable isotope measurements across forests, and provenance trials to inform forest management and policy under global change. This work will be carried out in 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 integrate NorSCAPE into 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 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.
• Curious, self-motivated, and enjoy close collaboration with your team.
• Strong communication skills in English and 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 cooperation with the WSL and the Stable Isotope Research Laboratory.
• A job with impact: Be part of ETH Zurich, which actively contributes to positive change in society while supporting your professional development.
• Numerous benefits, including public transport season tickets, car sharing, a wide range of sports offered by ASVZ, childcare, and attractive pension benefits.

We Value Diversity and Sustainability

In alignment 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 our staff and students are respected. Visit our Equal Opportunities and Diversity website to learn about our commitment to ensuring a fair and open environment that allows everyone to grow and flourish. Sustainability is at the core of our values— we are consistently 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. The start date is February 2026 or upon mutual agreement.

About ETH Zurich

ETH Zurich is one of the world’s leading universities specializing in science and technology. Renowned for our excellent education, cutting-edge research, and direct transfer of new knowledge into society, we provide a vibrant community for over 30,000 individuals from more than 120 countries. Our location in the heart of Europe serves as a hub for global collaboration, as we work together to develop solutions for today’s and tomorrow’s challenges.