PhD in Environmental Sciences at ETH Zürich (Switzerland)

Key details

• Host institution: ETH Zürich
• Location: ETH Zürich, Rämistrasse 101, Zurich, Switzerland
• Application deadline: July 8, 2026

Funding

Not funded by a EU programme

Funding level (from listing): partial or not via EU framework — confirm on the official call.

How to apply

• Apply by email to [email protected] (subject line and attachments per the official instructions).
• Full vacancy text and updates: Euraxess listing.

About the position

Two doctoral positions are available in plant ecophysiology and ecosystem services of crop mixtures as part of the project “PhenoMix: Multidimensional field phenotyping of crop mixtures”, funded by the Swiss National Science Foundation. PhenoMix explores agroecologically beneficial legume-cereal crop mixtures in field settings. These two positions are hosted by the Grassland Sciences group at ETH Zurich.

The Grassland Sciences group focuses on biosphere-atmosphere greenhouse gas exchange, plant ecophysiology, ecosystem services of agroecosystems, and stable isotope applications for studying plant functional diversity. It is a dynamic, international team within the Department of Environmental Systems Science at ETH Zurich. We seek two reliable, enthusiastic, and highly motivated doctoral students with a passion for science to join our team.

Project Background

These doctoral positions are part of PhenoMix, a collaborative project involving ETH Zurich, the Swiss Data Science Center, and Agroscope. The project examines legume-cereal mixtures, including varieties of pea, lentil, wheat, oats, and barley, grown under an experimental field phenotyping platform and in a neighboring field. Various work packages cover phenotyping, plant ecophysiology, data science, and agro-economic assessments.

The two doctoral students in our work package will investigate differences in canopy microclimate, plant traits, and ecosystem services between pure stands and crop mixtures. Using stable carbon, nitrogen, and water isotope applications, they will evaluate light, nitrogen, and water use, as well as complementarity in crop mixtures over three cropping seasons.

Job Description

The doctoral projects emphasize canopy microclimate, plant traits, resource use, ecosystem services, and complementarity of legumes and cereal crops in pure stands and mixtures. The specific focus of each project will depend on the candidate’s skills and interests. Key tasks include:

• Measurements of canopy microclimate, canopy architecture (e.g., height, leaf area index), plant traits, and biomass production to assess crop light and space use
• Measurements of soil resource supply and plant sampling for stable isotope analyses to assess crop nitrogen and water use
• Quantification of litter decomposition, leaching, weed pressure, and yield quality to assess ecosystem services
• Evaluation of plant phenotyping models, in collaboration with other PhenoMix work packages
• Statistical analyses, including machine learning approaches
• Presentation at national and international events, as well as publication
• Assistance in plot establishment, maintenance, and harvest across all PhenoMix work packages

Both positions are full-time and funded for four years. Salary and social benefits follow ETH Zurich rules.

Profile

By the start date, candidates must hold a Master’s degree in agricultural sciences, biology, environmental sciences, ecology, or a closely related field, with experience in plant ecophysiology, soil science, community ecology, and/or stable isotopes.

• Experience with fieldwork, strong statistical skills, and programming experience (e.g., in R or Python)
• A good standard of written and spoken English, as well as a driver’s license, are mandatory
• Good writing skills and the ability to work in an interdisciplinary team are expected

We Offer

A meaningful role at ETH Zurich, supporting professional development and contributing to positive societal change. Benefits include public transport season tickets, car sharing, sports facilities through ASVZ, childcare, and attractive pension benefits.

ETH Zurich values diversity and sustainability, promoting an inclusive culture with equal opportunities. We foster a respectful environment for growth and are committed to a climate-neutral future.

Application

We look forward to your online application by 15 May 2026, including:

• Letter of motivation
• CV
• Bachelor’s and Master’s certificates with complete transcripts
• Contact information of two referees

The desired starting date is 1 August 2026. Interviews will begin by mid-May 2026.

For further information about the Grassland Sciences group and PhenoMix, please visit the respective websites. Questions about the positions can be directed to Prof. Dr. Nina Buchmann ([email protected]).

Please note that we exclusively accept applications submitted through our online application portal. Applications via email or postal services will not be considered.

About ETH Zürich

ETH Zurich is one of the world’s leading universities specializing in science and technology. We are renowned for excellent education, cutting-edge fundamental research, and direct transfer of knowledge to society. Over 30,000 people from more than 120 countries find our university a place that promotes independent thinking and inspires excellence. Located in the heart of Europe with global connections, we develop solutions for today’s and tomorrow’s challenges.