PhD position in Crop Phenotyping (PhenoMix project) ETH Zürich in Switzerland

The Crop Science group at ETH Zürich is offering a PhD position as part of the PhenoMix project, focusing on multidimensional field phenotyping of crop mixtures. Supported by the Swiss National Science Foundation, this position is embedded within a vibrant, interdisciplinary team in the Institute of Agricultural Sciences at the Department of Environmental Systems Science. The group’s research centers on developing methods and models to determine traits relevant for crop breeding and variety testing.

PhenoMix is a collaborative project involving four research groups at ETH Zurich, the Swiss Data Science Center, and Agroscope. Its main goal is to leverage high throughput field phenotyping (HTFP) technology, plant physiological assessments, and data science to identify genotypes suitable for agroecologically beneficial legume-cereal mixtures. The project includes growing various pea, lentil, wheat, oats, and barley varieties under the field phenotyping platform FIP, on experimental and farmer’s fields.

The PhD student will contribute to collecting HTFP data from devices such as multi-view RGB imaging systems, drones, handheld and manual devices. Responsibilities include designing and establishing a phenotyping robot capable of acquiring data from RGB cameras and other sensors, improving phenotyping workflows and models to extract traits like canopy height, cover, tillering, reflectance, senescence, and growth dynamics, and performing statistical analyses including AI-based approaches. The role also involves presenting results at national and international events, publishing in peer-reviewed journals, and assisting with plot establishment, maintenance, and harvest across all PhenoMix work packages.

Applicants should have a Master’s degree in agricultural, data, or engineering sciences, or a closely related field. Experience with fieldwork, strong statistical skills, programming experience (R or Python), and proficiency in English are required. Good writing skills, a driver’s license, and the ability to work in an interdisciplinary team are expected. Experience in crop phenotyping and oral communication skills in German are beneficial.

ETH Zurich offers numerous benefits, including public transport season tickets, car sharing, sports facilities, childcare, and attractive pension benefits. The university values diversity, sustainability, and an inclusive culture, promoting equality of opportunity and nurturing a fair environment for all staff and students.

The position is full-time and funded for four years, with salary and social benefits provided according to ETH Zurich rules. The desired starting date is 1 August 2026. Applications must be submitted online by 15 May 2026, including a letter of motivation, CV, Bachelor’s and Master’s certificates with transcripts, a link to your MSc thesis, and contact information for two referees. For further information, contact Prof. Dr. Achim Walter at [email protected]. Only applications submitted via the online portal will be considered.

ETH Zurich is a world-leading university specializing in science and technology, renowned for excellent education, cutting-edge research, and direct transfer of new knowledge into society. The university fosters independent thinking and inspires excellence, working together to develop solutions for global challenges.