PhD in Wildflower Phenology ETH Zürich in Switzerland

The Plant Ecology Group at ETH Zürich, led by Professor Janneke Hille Ris Lambers, invites applications for a fully funded PhD position in Wildflower Phenology. This research opportunity focuses on understanding how Alpine flowering communities vary across space and time, and the consequences for plant-pollinator dynamics. The project is highly relevant to climate change research, specifically how shifts in flowering phenology affect pollinator interactions and plant reproductive fitness in Alpine ecosystems.

The successful candidate will join a vibrant research group and collaborate with international partners. Key responsibilities include field work using phenocams to quantify flowering phenology and plant-pollinator interactions across growing seasons and elevational gradients, conducting experiments to assess the impact of altered phenology on pollinator visitation and plant fitness, and applying deep learning and temporal network analyses to ecological data. The PhD student will have the opportunity to develop independent research ideas within the project and contribute to group activities such as teaching, outreach, and lab work.

Applicants should possess a MSc degree in a relevant field, strong enthusiasm for the project, ecological knowledge (phenology, plant-pollinator dynamics, or climate change impacts), experience with statistical modelling and/or deep learning, skills in plant and pollinator identification, and the ability to work both independently and collaboratively. Field work experience, a valid driver's license, and advanced English proficiency (oral and written) are required. The group values diversity, inclusivity, and open science, and ETH Zürich offers a supportive and cosmopolitan environment with access to outstanding research facilities and Alpine field sites.

This PhD position is fully funded for four years, with a competitive annual salary according to ETH Zurich regulations. The position is based in Zurich, Switzerland, and remote work from outside Switzerland is not possible. The application deadline is late June 2026, with interviews scheduled for July and decisions by late August. The ideal start date is between November 2026 and January 2027.

To apply, submit your online application via the ETH Zürich portal, including your resume, MSc degree certificate, and transcript as separate PDFs (with your last name in the file name). Applications via email or postal services will not be considered, and incomplete applications will not be evaluated. For questions, contact Professor Janneke Hille Ris Lambers at [email protected] with an informative subject line.

ETH Zürich is a world-leading university specializing in science and technology, renowned for excellent education, cutting-edge research, and a commitment to diversity, sustainability, and climate-neutral initiatives. The Plant Ecology Group conducts research on Alpine wildflower phenology, forest regeneration, and the role of climate and species interactions in plant communities, with long-term monitoring sites in Switzerland and the USA.