PhD Position: -D Geological Modelling Eastern Penninics

The Structural Geology and Tectonics group focuses on the rapidly deforming zones that define Earth’s tectonic plate boundaries and generate many of the planet’s geohazards. We have a new PhD position open on 3D geologic modeling of the eastern Penninic in the Swiss Alps.

The eastern Penninic nappe stack of the Swiss Alps preserves a complex record of subduction, accretion, nappe emplacement, metamorphism, and exhumation. Its major tectonic boundaries provide an exceptional natural laboratory for reconstructing the three-dimensional architecture of the Alps and for testing how inherited geometry, lithology, and deformation history influence crustal-scale structures.

As part of the swisstopo swiss

Alps3D project, this PhD project will use 3‑D geological modelling as a core tool to reconstruct the subsurface structure of the eastern Penninics in Switzerland. Over four years, the candidate will build a high‑quality, 3‑D geological model by integrating geological maps, structural data, cross‑sections, tunnel and borehole information, geophysical constraints, and published metamorphic and thermochronological datasets. The project will involve collaboration with neighbouring modelling efforts, as well as targeted field‑based work on selected tectonic boundaries within the model area.

These efforts aim to link regional‑scale 3‑D architecture with variations in lithology, deformation fabrics, metamorphic history, and fluid‑related features along major crustal interfaces. In the later stages of the project, the candidate will use the attributed 3‑D model to develop a process‑oriented representation of an ancient subduction‑interface system and explore how its geometry and internal heterogeneity may have influenced segmentation, strain localization, and slip behaviour.

The project, funded by swisstopo, will be hosted in the Structural Geology & Tectonics Group at ETH Zurich under the supervision of Prof. Whitney Behr, in collaboration with swisstopo and Dr. Lukas Nibourel in the Georesources Switzerland Group at ETH Zurich.

• Compile and harmonise regional geological datasets, including maps, cross‑sections, structural measurements, tunnel and borehole data, and published constraints
• Build a three‑part 3‑D geological model of the eastern Penninic nappe stack, with clear documentation of assumptions and uncertainties
• Develop a consistent structural scheme and unit legend in coordination with swisstopo and neighbouring modelling efforts
• Conduct targeted fieldwork to resolve key geometric uncertainties and collect structural observations
• Use the 3‑D model to investigate the architecture, continuity, and tectonic significance of major crustal boundaries
• Prepare model documentation, reports, manuscripts, and conference presentations

• MSc in Earth Sciences/Geology or a related field
• Strong interest in field geology, structural geology, tectonics, and/or 3‑D geological modelling
• Experience with geological mapping, GIS, cross‑section construction, or 3‑D modelling software is an advantage
• Willingness to conduct fieldwork in Alpine terrain
• Solid English skills;
  German is helpful but not required
• Collaborative, organized, independent, and careful with complex datasets and uncertainty

• A friendly, dynamic, and interdisciplinary environment in the Structural Geology & Tectonics Group (led by Prof. Whitney Behr)
• Access to a wide range of experimental and analytical facilities at ETH Zentrum and Scope
  
  M (Hönggerberg)
• Competitive ETH salary and benefits; the PhD position is funded for four years

ETH Zurich promotes equality of opportunity, values diversity and nurtures a working and learning environment in which the rights and dignity of all staff and students are respected.