PhD Positions in Plant Ecophysiology and Ecosystem Services of Crop Mixtures (PhenoMix Project) ETH Zürich in Switzerland

ETH Zürich is offering two fully funded PhD positions in plant ecophysiology and ecosystem services of crop mixtures as part of the PhenoMix project, supported by the Swiss National Science Foundation. The PhenoMix project investigates agroecologically beneficial legume-cereal crop mixtures, focusing on multidimensional field phenotyping. The successful candidates will join the Grassland Sciences group within the Department of Environmental Systems Science, a vibrant and international research team specializing in biosphere-atmosphere greenhouse gas exchange, plant ecophysiology, and ecosystem services of agroecosystems.

The doctoral projects will assess differences in canopy microclimate, plant traits, and ecosystem services between pure stands and crop mixtures. Using stable carbon, nitrogen, and water isotope applications, the research will determine light, nitrogen, and water use, and evaluate complementarity in crop mixtures over three cropping seasons. Tasks include measurements of canopy microclimate and architecture, plant traits, biomass production, soil resource supply, and plant sampling for stable isotope analyses. Additional responsibilities involve quantifying litter decomposition, leaching, weed pressure, and yield quality, as well as evaluating plant phenotyping models and conducting statistical analyses, including machine learning approaches. The positions also require assistance in plot establishment, maintenance, and harvest across all PhenoMix work packages.

Both positions are full-time and funded for four years, with salary and social benefits provided according to ETH Zurich rules. Applicants must have a Master’s degree in agricultural sciences, biology, environmental sciences, ecology, or a closely related field, with experience in plant ecophysiology, soil science, community ecology, and/or stable isotopes. Fieldwork experience, strong statistical skills, and programming proficiency (e.g., R or Python) are essential. A good standard of written and spoken English and a driver’s license are mandatory. Candidates should demonstrate good writing skills and the ability to work collaboratively in an interdisciplinary team.

ETH Zurich offers numerous benefits, including public transport season tickets, car sharing, sports facilities, childcare, and attractive pension plans. The university values diversity, sustainability, and an inclusive culture, promoting equality of opportunity and nurturing a fair and open environment for all staff and students. The desired starting date is 1 August 2026, and interviews will begin by mid-May 2026. Applications must be submitted online by 15 May 2026, including a letter of motivation, CV, academic certificates and transcripts, and contact information for two referees. For further information, contact Prof. Dr. Nina Buchmann at [email protected]. Applications via email or postal services will not be considered.

ETH Zurich is renowned for its excellence in education, fundamental research, and societal impact, with over 30,000 people from more than 120 countries. The university is committed to developing solutions for global challenges and fostering independent thinking and excellence.