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.
Numerical modelling of lakes (Initial appointment for 1 year, with possible extension of up to 3 years)
The main objective of this position is to develop robust model-based estimates of tolerable phosphorus loads for Swiss lakes under present and future climatic conditions. The work will substantially contribute to the programme “Biodiverse and Resilient Lakes in the Face of Climate Change” within the second phase of the Swiss Biodiversity Action Plan.
This project is funded by the
Federal Office for the Environment (FOEN) and aims to provide a sound scientific basis for future nutrient management strategies in Swiss lakes. Swiss legislation requires that dissolved oxygen concentrations must not fall below 4 mg/L at any depth. Despite substantial reductions in nutrient inputs over recent decades, many lakes still fail to meet this requirement. Previous work at Eawag has explored the relationships between nutrient loads and oxygen dynamics. However, key uncertainties remain regarding the reductions in nutrient loads needed to meet legal targets, the expected oxygen conditions under near-natural nutrient levels, and the extent to which nutrient management must adapt to climate change. To address these questions, the project will develop and apply models of varying complexity, ranging from box models to coupled physical-biogeochemical one-dimensional lake models. Initial model development will focus on two contrasting and well-characterized lakes, followed by application to a broader set of large Swiss lakes.
We are looking for an outstanding and highly motivated person with a PhD in a relevant field of physics, environmental science or engineering, and a strong expertise in numerical modelling and data analysis. Demonstrated expertise in Python and open research practices and strong communication skills in English are essential. Experience with aquatic systems and biogeochemical modelling is an advantage.
The successful candidate will have substantial opportunities to develop their own research within the framework of the project and to contribute to the supervision of Bachelor and Masters students.
At Eawag, we have a working environment in which people with different experiences, strengths, and perspectives can fully contribute and further develop. Here, you can help us advance! We promote genuine participation, exchange, and mutual understanding. We create structures that enable the compatibility of work and other areas of life, such as care work, and continuously make efforts to reduce barriers.
Do you have specific requirements regarding the application process or the position, or do you need additional information? Talk to us about it - we will be happy to support you with possible flexible workplace, working hours, and job design solutions. For further information please visit our website about
Eawag as well as our
conditions of employment.
We will begin reviewing applications on 15 June 2026, and will continue until the position is filled. The anticipated start date is September 2026 or as agreed. The position is based at Eawag in Kastanienbaum, on the shores of Lake Lucerne.
Please submit an application letter describing your interests and their relevance to this position, a CV, and the names and contact information for two references. Please also provide links to representative code repositories or software outputs that you have developed, along with a brief description of your contribution.
For further information, please contact
Dr Martin Schmid.
We look forward to receiving your application. Please send it through this webpage, any other way of applying will not be considered. A click on the button below will take you directly to the application form.