Senior Scientist​/Lab Manager in Spectroscopy Pressure​/Temperature Experiments

Senior Scientist / Lab Manager in Spectroscopy for High Pressure/Temperature Experiments

The Institute of Geochemistry and Petrology in the Department of Earth and Planetary Sciences (D-EAPS) invites applications for, initially, a 2‑yr senior scientist / lab manager position, with a possible longer term perspective at ETH.

We specialise in the study of the interiors, atmospheres and evolution of terrestrial planetary bodies, both in our Solar System and beyond. The institute runs a wide array of spectroscopic and high-pressure / high-temperature experimental tools used to probe the physical and chemical properties of the phases (solids, liquids, gases) that comprise planetary bodies. With the advent of exoplanetary observations, new and innovative techniques are needed to access and understand their nature at the extreme conditions that typify their interiors and atmospheres.

The successful candidate will be responsible for:

• maintaining and developing the spectroscopic (Fourier‑Transform Infra Red Spectroscopy, Raman Spectroscopy), and part of the experimental equipment (Aerodynamic Levitation, Diamond Anvil Cells);
• training lab users and contributing to teaching, supervision and education of MSc and Ph.D. students; and
• may develop his/her own independent research, collaborating with nearby research infrastructures (e.g., Scope
  
  M, Swiss Light Source).

The position will be hosted in the Experimental Planetology Group (Prof. Sossi) and co-hosted by the High Pressure Experimental Petrology Group (Prof. Schmidt).

• Prospective applicants should hold a doctorate in the broad domain of the experimental Earth and planetary sciences / physics / chemistry with a significant background in spectroscopy.
• Should have working knowledge of optics, electronics, 3D experimental design (e.g., CAD) and coding languages (e.g., Python).
• Should be willing to train users of spectroscopic and experimental apparatus (including Ph.D. and Masters students) and contribute to teaching in these disciplines.
• This position may be oriented to a lab leader profile, but could also allow the development of a research profile.

• A friendly, dynamic and interdisciplinary environment at ETH.
• Wide perspectives in the planetary sciences across, e.g. the Center for the Origin and Prevalence of Life, and ETH Space.
• ETH Zurich is ranked first in the world for Earth Sciences.
• Remuneration will conform to the federal rate set by ETH Zürich for senior scientists (~114,000‑139,000 CHF per year, depending on experience, see here).

We look forward to receiving your application in the form of a

• CV including a publication list and names of two referees.
• 1‑page statement of motivation.
• 1‑page statement of technical and research interests.

All applications must be submitted via the ETH Job Board portal here
. The Final date to receive applications is the 3rd of April, 2026
, with a start date of Summer‑Autumn 2026. Further information about our groups can be found on the Planetology and High Pressure Group websites. Any other inquiries should be addressed to Prof. Paolo Sossi, (Use the "Apply for this Job" box below). (no applications).

Posted: 05 March 2026

Please mention EARTHWORKS when responding to this advertisement.