Eawag, the Swiss Federal Institute of Aquatic Science and Technology, is an internationally networked aquatic research institute within the ETH Domain (Swiss Federal Institutes of Technology). Eawag conducts research, education and expert consulting to achieve the dual goals of meeting direct human needs for water and maintaining the function and integrity of aquatic ecosystems.

The Aquatic Geochemistry Group in the Department of Surface Waters – Research and Management (SURF), located in Kastanienbaum (Lucerne) has a vacancy for a

PhD Student Position in Aquatic Geochemistry: Trace element cycling at the oxic-anoxic interface of redox-stratified lakes

The goal of the project is to constrain the biogeochemical cycling of iron and manganese in Lake Zug (Switzerland) – a lake with anoxic deep waters that have unique chemical signatures. This project will focus on the causes for these unique signatures, redox cycling of Mn in the lake, and the impacts of Fe and Mn on the biogeochemical cycling of major elements (e.g. C, N). This position will involve fieldwork and collaboration with physicists, microbiologists, and biogeochemists conducting cutting-edge research on physico-biogeochemical cycling.

We are seeking a highly motivated student with a background in analytical chemistry, earth sciences or environmental sciences, and experience in aquatic chemistry, trace metal analysis, and biogeochemical cycling. Fieldwork experience and an interest in coupling of physical and biogeochemical processes are highly desirable. The successful candidate will have good analytical and problem-solving skills, be adept at working both independently and collaboratively, and have experience or demonstrate potential in effective scientific communication (i.e. publications and presentations).

The duration of the PhD position will be 4 years. The PhD degree will be awarded by ETH Zurich in the department of Environmental Systems Science (USYS). The candidate will be based in the department of Surface Waters at Eawag in Kastanienbaum, and supervised by Dr. David Janssen.

Application: To apply for this position, please submit the following documents:

A cover letter describing your research interests, relevant skills, and how you meet the PhD student profile
Curriculum vitae (CV) detailing your academic qualifications and research experience
A transcript of academic records/course grades, and proof of a MSc degree
A PDF copy of the MSc thesis
Contact information for at least two professional references

Review of applications will begin 3 January 2024 and the position will remain open until filled. The anticipated starting date for the position is spring 2024.

Eawag is a modern employer and offers an excellent working environment where staff can contribute their strengths, experience and ways of thinking. We promote gender equality and are committed to staff diversity and inclusion. The compatibility of career and family is of central importance to us. For more information about Eawag and our work conditions please consult www.eawag.ch and www.eawag.ch/en/aboutus/working/employment.

For further information please contact Dr David Janssen.

We look forward to receiving your application. Please send it through this webpage, as any other way of applying will not be considered. A click on the button below will take you directly to the application form.

Eawag: Swiss Federal Institute of Aquatic Science and Technology