PhD Position in Atmospheric Chemistry

The Atmospheric Chemistry group at the Institute for Atmospheric and Climate Science (IAC) – ETH Zurich invites applications for a 4-year PhD position on “Investigating oxidized nitrogen in the troposphere”.

The Atmospheric Chemistry group at ETH conducts research exploring the processes controlling tropospheric composition (gases and particles) and their intersection with global change. Research makes extensive use of global modeling tools (GEOS-Chem and CESM) and analysis of large observational datasets.

Nitrogen oxides (NOx) emitted into the troposphere contribute to the formation of fine particulate matter (PM2.5) and ozone (O3). NOx thus plays a central role in global air quality and climate. Despite this key role, the complex cycling of NOx with other forms of oxidized nitrogen in the troposphere is not well constrained. Our growing understanding of sources and chemical transformations are not yet well represented or tested in large-scale models.

The goals of this PhD project will be to better represent these processes in a global 3D model, to test resulting simulations against airborne, surface, and satellite observations, and finally, to investigate how changing NOx emissions have altered the cycling and impacts of tropospheric NOx over time.

• Develop skills in atmospheric chemistry, global modeling, and data analysis of field observations.
• Have opportunities to develop scientific communication skills through presentations at conferences.
• Develop skills in writing scientific papers and in management by co-supervising bachelor’s and master’s theses.

The project will be supervised by Prof. Colette Heald.

• Applicants should hold an MSc degree in atmospheric science, earth science, environmental science, chemistry, physics, or a related discipline (obtained prior to the PhD start date)
• The candidate will have experience in atmospheric chemistry. Experience with regional or global modeling is desirable.
• Strong programming skills are necessary.
• Good knowledge of English (spoken and written) is essential.

Employment will be according to standard regulations at ETH (funding secured for 4 years). The projected start date can be any time between March and September 2027.

Our group is composed of researchers from around the world and offers a friendly and supportive environment, with English as our working language. Researchers in the group work on a wide range of topics and are exposed to each others’ work through biweekly group meetings. Additionally, the student will be supported through regular one-on-one meetings with Prof. Heald. The group is part of the Institute for Atmospheric and Climate Science which hosts a seminar series.

The group is located at ETH’s central campus.

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