PhD position on the topic of tropical cyclones ETH Zürich in Switzerland

The Atmospheric Physics group at the Institute for Atmospheric and Climate Science (IAC), ETH Zürich, is offering a PhD position focused on the investigation of atmosphere-ocean interactions in the context of tropical cyclones. This research group specializes in studying clouds, from microphysical processes to convective systems such as tropical cyclones, aiming to deepen understanding of how cloud microphysics interacts with cloud dynamics. The group employs laboratory and field studies, remote sensing data, and advanced numerical models.

This PhD position is part of the newly funded EU project RealESM, which includes partners across Europe. The project at ETH Zürich will study atmosphere/ocean interactions at multiple spatial resolutions, examining their consequences for tropical cyclones, clouds, and precipitation, and how these depend on spatial resolution. The research will involve coupled atmosphere-ocean simulations using the ICON model, in collaboration with the Climate Physics and Environmental Physics groups at ETH Zürich and other RealESM consortium researchers.

The PhD candidate will evaluate the impact of warm ocean temperature anomalies (such as those occurring along coasts) and cold anomalies (for example, caused by Sahara dust) on tropical cyclones. The work will be conducted with the global aerosol-climate model ICON-HAM, coupled to the ETH ocean model. Key responsibilities include conducting coupled atmosphere-ocean simulations at various horizontal resolutions, analyzing model output in terms of tropical cyclones with observational data, and investigating the sensitivity of tropical cyclones to ocean temperature anomalies.

Applicants should have a MSc (or equivalent) in atmospheric/environmental sciences, physics, computational science, engineering, or a related field. Experience in numerical modelling, statistical data analysis, and programming skills is highly encouraged. Proficiency in English, both oral and written, is required. ETH Zürich values diversity and sustainability, and encourages applications from underrepresented groups in academia.

The position offers opportunities to acquire subject-specific competences and transferrable skills, work in a diverse team with flexible hours and home office options, and be integrated into the scientific community at ETH Zürich and internationally. The preferred start date is September 2026. Review of applications will begin April 1, 2026 and continue until the position is filled. Applications must be submitted online via the ETH Zürich application portal; email or postal applications will not be considered. For questions regarding the position, contact Prof. Ulrike Lohmann at [email protected] (no applications).

ETH Zürich is a world-leading university specializing in science and technology, renowned for excellent education, cutting-edge research, and a vibrant international community. The university is committed to equality, diversity, and sustainability, fostering an environment where all staff and students can thrive.