PhD Position in Tropical Organic Geochemistry: Modern and Ancient Microbial Drivers of Biogeochemical Cycling ETH Zürich in Switzerland

This fully funded PhD position at ETH Zürich offers an exciting opportunity to investigate modern and ancient microbial drivers of biogeochemical cycling in tropical wetlands. The project is embedded within the Surface Earth Evolution (SEE) group in the Department of Earth and Planetary Sciences and the Sustainable Agroecosystems (SAE) group in the Department of Environmental Systems Science. Together, these groups integrate field-based sample collection and monitoring with advanced lab-based biogeochemical measurements, providing a multidisciplinary environment for research.

The position is part of the SNSF-funded project 'Constraining tropical wetland greenhouse gas production today and through time: insights from Tumba-Ngiri-Maindombe, Democratic Republic of Congo (LacMai)'. The research aims to mechanistically constrain climatic and anthropogenic controls on greenhouse gas emissions (carbon dioxide, methane, nitrous oxide) in the world's largest tropical wetland. The successful candidate will lead the biomarker component, using state-of-the-art organic geochemical techniques to reconstruct biogeochemical cycles and microbial community responses to climatic shifts over the past 12,000 years (Holocene).

Key responsibilities include participating in fieldwork expeditions to DR Congo to collect sediment records from Lake Mai Ndombe and surrounding peatlands, building sediment and peat-core age models with ETH’s radiocarbon facility, interpreting sediment sources and accumulation rates, reconstructing ecosystem changes using ancient pollen and charcoal signals, and extracting and quantifying sedimentary biomarkers diagnostic of greenhouse gas-producing and -consuming microorganisms. The candidate will also communicate findings at international conferences and through scientific publications.

The research team comprises two PhD students, two senior scientists, and several technicians across two groups, offering strong support and opportunities for skill development beyond traditional organic geochemistry. ETH Zürich provides excellent, inclusive working conditions, a strong international network, and an internationally competitive salary. The university values diversity, sustainability, and equality of opportunity, fostering a climate-neutral future and a fair, open environment for all staff and students.

Applicants must have an MSc degree in geochemistry, geology, or a related field, with wet-lab experience in geochemical or sedimentological techniques. Prior experience with biomarkers or laboratory work is a strong asset. Computational skills in data reduction and analysis, willingness to conduct remote fieldwork, proficiency in English, and the ability to work independently are required. Knowledge of French is a plus for fieldwork. The application deadline is 15 March 2026, with interviews by 31 March 2026 and an ideal start date in June-July 2026. Applications must be submitted online via the ETH portal, including CV, transcripts, motivation letter, and references. For questions, contact Prof. Jordon D. Hemingway at [email protected].

ETH Zürich is renowned for its excellence in science and technology, offering a vibrant, international environment for research and education. The university is committed to developing solutions for global challenges and promoting independent thinking and academic excellence.