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University of Zurich

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2 PhD positions in Ecosystem Modelling of Plant-Soil Feedbacks University of Zurich in Switzerland

Degree Level

PhD

Field of study

Environmental Science

Funding

Full funding available
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Country

Switzerland

University

University of Zurich

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Keywords

Environmental Science
Biology
Mathematics
Statistical Analysis
Mathematical Modeling
Earth Science
Functional Ecology
Ecological Modeling
Community Dynamics
Statistics

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About this position

Two PhD positions are open in ecosystem modelling of plant-soil feedbacks at the Department of Geography, Earth System Science (ESS), University of Zurich in Switzerland. The project focuses on grassland biodiversity, plant-soil interactions, ecosystem functioning, dispersal limitation, and model-data integration using mathematical and computational approaches.

The research is part of a collaborative project between the University of Zurich and the University of Kansas, jointly funded by the Swiss SNSF and US NSF. The PhD students will work in the Earth System Science group and earn a PhD from the Life Science Zurich Graduate School. Daily supervision is by Dr. Maarten B. Eppinga; the project also involves Prof. James D. Bever, Prof. Peggy Schultz, and group head Prof. Maria J. Santos.

PhD Position 1 focuses on theory and tests of plant-soil feedbacks with implications for long-term dynamics. Tasks include developing a model-data integration framework, extending it to multiple species, and integrating findings with community-level models.

PhD Position 2 focuses on theory and tests of plant-soil feedbacks with implications for plant community dynamics. Tasks include modelling biodiversity and ecosystem functioning, studying dispersal limitation, and integrating findings with dynamical soil community models.

Applicants should hold an MSc or equivalent in Environmental & Earth System Science, Geo- & Environmental Physics, Computational & Mathematical Biology, Ecology & Evolution, or a related field. Experience in ecosystem modelling, coding in MATLAB/Python/Fortran/Julia/Mathematica/R, and statistical data analysis with open and reproducible methods is expected. The role also involves collaboration with field ecologists and participation in ecological experiments and field data collection.

The position is temporary and starts on 1 November 2026 or by agreement. Applications must be submitted as one PDF containing a motivation letter, CV with two references, and a copy of the qualifying degree certificate. In the motivation letter, applicants should indicate whether they are interested in position 1, position 2, or both. Apply through the university application portal.

Funding details

Full funding including tuition fees and living expenses is available for this position. The scholarship covers all educational costs and provides a monthly stipend.

How to apply

Please submit your application including a cover letter, CV, academic transcripts, and contact information for two references. Applications should be sent via the online portal before the deadline.

More information can be found here

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