Postdoctoral Researcher in Tree Physiology and Growth / Postdoctoral Researcheress in Tree Physiology and Growth

Postdoc in Tree Physiology and Growth for Forest Acclimation in a Changing Climate

100%, Zurich, fixed-term

Position in 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 in collaboration with the COSTAction CLEANFOREST.

Norway spruce (Picea abies) is a cornerstone of Europe’s forests and forestry sector, facing increasing challenges from climate change. This position offers an exciting opportunity to join the NorSCAPE project, which aims to disentangle the physiological mechanisms underpinning resilience and vulnerability across its distribution range. Working in collaboration with international partners and the ETH team, you will conduct research on the adaptation and acclimation potential of spruce, employing tree-ring analysis and stable isotope measurements across forests and provenance trials to inform forest management and policy under global change. This project will be carried out 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.
• Analyse 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 enthusiastic about collaborating closely 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. Here, you will have the opportunity to contribute to international efforts shaping the future of European forests. You will receive mentorship from leading scientists and collaborate with an extensive European research network. Expect close collaboration with the WSL and the Stable Isotope Research Laboratory.

Your work will have impact: by becoming part of ETH Zurich, you will not only support your professional development but also contribute to positive change in society. You can expect numerous benefits, such as public transport season tickets, car sharing options, 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 in which the rights and dignity of all our staff and students are respected. Visit our Equal Opportunities and Diversity website to see how we ensure a fair and open environment that allows everyone to grow and flourish. Sustainability is a core value for us - 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. Start Date: February 2026, or upon agreement.

For further information, please contact Dr. Valentina Vitali, ETH Zurich (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.