University of Zurich 
Zurich, Switzerland Offer Summary
The University of Zurich invites applications for a four-year PhD position within the Department of Geography, focusing on large-scale in-situ experiments regarding glacier ice rheology and thermodynamics. Funded by the Swiss National Science Foundation, this collaborative project involves research institutions including the University of Oxford and LMU Munich. The role requires active participation in field experiments, dataset analysis, and numerical modeling of ice flow. Candidates must hold an MSc in glaciology, geophysics, or related fields, with strong programming skills and mountaineering experience. Responsibilities include designing field studies, adapting computational models, and publishing high-quality scientific papers. The position is part-time at 0.8 FTE, starting upon agreement. Applicants should submit a cover letter, CV, and transcripts via the university job portal.
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Project Description
Department of Geography
PhD position in "Large-Scale In-Situ Experiments on Glacier Ice Rheology and Thermodynamics" (funded for 4 years) 80 %
Start of employment upon agreement
Within the framework of the project "Large-Scale In-Situ Experiments on Rheology and Thermodynamics" (LISERT) we are pleased to offer a PhD position for 4 years at the University of Zurich (UZH), Switzerland.
The project is funded by the Swiss National Science Foundation (SNF) and is a collaborative effort of several research institutions to understand the rheology of temperate glacier ice.
The project employs a combination of in-situ measurements on a glacier, structure-geological analysis, numerical modeling and theoretical developments to investigate how glacier ice deforms under active forcing at the scale of meters. With complementary studies the glacier dynamical and structural context is mapped with multi-spectral
and thermal sensors on drones and analyzed with glacier flow models of different complexity. This work is performed in close collaboration with scientists from the University of Oxford and LMU Munich.
We are seeking a highly motivated PhD student to join the glaciology group at the University of Zurich.
Your responsibilities
- Active contribution to the design, development and implementation of the field experiments.
- Analysis of datasets from field experiments.
- Application and adaptation of numerical models of ice flow and crystal texture evolution.
- Active participation in the field work on a glacier, including week-long field camps.
- Collaboration with PhDs and Postdocs of related projects.
- Writing of high-quality publications.
Your profile
- Fascinated by large-scale dynamic processes in the mountains.
- MSc in glaciology, structural geology, applied geophysics, (computational) mechanics or (computational) geosciences.
- Background in solid/fluid/continuum mechanics
- Experience with numerical modeling (e.g. finite elements, finite differences, particle models).
- Good programming knowledge with e.g. Python, Matlab, Julia, C++ or similar languages.
- Mountaineering skills such as glacier travel, backcountry skiing and expedition camping.
- Team player with the ability to work independently, and with excellent communication capabilities as she/he will collaborate with PhDs and postdocs of related projects.
- Excellent written and spoken English and strong scientific writing skills.
- Teamwork, scientific communication and organizational skills.
Information on your application
The University of Zurich provides an international, English-speaking research environment with excellent infrastructure and strong interdisciplinary links. You will be part of the Graduate School of the Department of Geography and be member of the Glaciology and Geomorphodynamics Group (3G). We are committed to fostering an inclusive and respectful working environment. The PhD will be supervised by Dr. Martin Lüthi and Dr. Claudia Röösli.
Applications should include a cover letter, your Curriculum Vitae, and transcripts.
For general information on the department and research groups, please follow the link.
What we offer
Our employees benefit from a wide range of attractive offers. Find out more.
What we offer
Work-Life Balance
- Flexible working models (such as part-time positions, mobile working, job-sharing)
- Childcare at the kihz foundation of UZH and ETH
Learning and Development
- Wide range of continuing education courses of UZH and the Canton of Zurich
- Language Center run jointly with ETH Zurich
Food
- Food and drinks at reduced prices in the UZH cafeterias
- Lunch-Check-card with UZH contribution
Healthcare
- Special conditions on the Academic Sports Association ASVZ
- Free seasonal flu vaccinations
- Rest and relaxation at the quiet room in the university tower
Discounts
- Private traffic: Carsharing, rent a vehicle, parking space
- Digitalization: Hardware, software, mobile phone subscriptions
Conditions of Employment
- Policies of the UZH
- Most UZH staff are employed according to public law
International Services
- Support for people from outside Switzerland
Campuses
- Campuses Zurich City, Zurich Irchel, Oerlikon and Schlieren
- Sites Zurich West, Old Botanical Garden, Botanical Garden and Lengg
Location
Department of Geography
Winterthurerstrasse 190, 8057 Zürich, Switzerland
Further information
Questions about the job
Dr. Martin Lüthi
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Working at UZH
The University of Zurich, Switzerland's largest university, offers a range of attractive positions in various subject areas and professional fields. With around 10,000 employees and currently 12 professional apprenticeship streams the University offers an inspiring working environment on cutting-edge research and top-class education. Put your talent and skills to work with us. Find out more about UZH as an employer!
Please apply via our job portal jobs.uzh.ch.
Working at UZH
The University of Zurich, Switzerland's largest university, offers a range of attractive positions in various subject areas and professional fields. With around 10,000 employees and currently 12 professional apprenticeship streams the University offers an inspiring working environment on cutting-edge research and top-class education. Put your talent and skills to work with us. Find out more about UZH as an employer! More
