PhD Position in Cryogenic Carbonate Mineralization and Carbon Dioxide Fluxes ETH Zürich in Switzerland

The Geomitigation of Greenhouse Gases group at ETH Zurich is recruiting a highly motivated PhD candidate for a fully funded 4-year project on cryogenic carbonate mineralization and carbon dioxide fluxes. The project sits at the intersection of experimental geochemistry, cryosphere science, and planetary surface processes, and is designed for a candidate interested in low-temperature laboratory research, carbonate chemistry, and the role of freezing in the carbon cycle.

In this project, you will investigate how freezing influences carbonate mineral formation and carbon dioxide exchange under conditions relevant to glaciers, sea ice, permafrost, and ice-rich planetary systems. You will contribute to a new experimental platform for low-temperature geochemistry at ETH Zurich and work on an emerging research direction that asks when ice formation promotes carbon release, carbon storage, or both.

The research will involve controlled freezing and thawing experiments, aqueous geochemistry, gas monitoring, and mineral characterization. You will use analytical instrumentation such as gas analyzers, HPIC, ICP-OES, UVVis spectroscopy, and potentiometric titration, then recover and characterize carbonate minerals formed during freezing. A key part of the work is to develop and parameterize a predictive kinetic framework based on time-resolved geochemical measurements, synthesize datasets, and disseminate findings through scientific manuscripts and conference presentations.

The position is hosted by ETH Zurich, one of Europe’s leading science and technology universities, within a collaborative and inclusive research environment. The group emphasizes high-quality research, open discussion, mentorship, and interdisciplinary exchange, and offers access to excellent infrastructure and a newly established low-temperature experimental geochemistry laboratory. Additional development opportunities include teaching assistantships, ETH doctoral courses, and transferable-skills training.

Applicants should hold an MSc degree in geochemistry, Earth sciences, environmental chemistry, chemistry, or a closely related field. A strong interest in low-temperature geochemistry, water-rock interactions, mineral formation, carbonate and aqueous redox chemistry, or cryosphere science is expected, alongside strong laboratory skills, quantitative analytical ability, and excellent spoken and written English. Experience with reactive-transport or geochemical modeling is welcome but not required.

The application deadline is 31 August 2026. Applications must be submitted online and should include a cover letter, CV, Bachelor’s and Master’s transcripts, a copy of the Master diploma, and contact details for two academic references. The expected start date is 4 January 2027.