Doctoral Position in Debris Flow Monitoring

1000scholars; Zürich; Vor Ort; CHF 50.000 - 60.000; Vollzeit

Zusammenfassung

ETH Zürich invites applications for a Doctoral Position in Debris Flow Monitoring. The PhD candidate will work in the Engineering Geology Group, focusing on debris flow mechanisms, field monitoring, and risk management.

Start is January 2027, fully funded for four years, with opportunities for teaching and access to advanced labs. Responsibilities include deriving velocity and flow depth estimates from field data, field work at five study sites, and hypothesis-driven analysis of in-situ

Qualifikationen

• MSc in a relevant field is required.
• Experience with point cloud analysis is an asset.
• Strong interest in debris flow mechanisms.
• Background in landslide hazard and risk assessment.
• Motivation, creativity, independence, and teamwork are essential.
• Excellent English communication skills.

Aufgaben

• Derive velocity and flow depth estimates from sensor data using point clouds and cameras.
• Develop understanding of debris flow motion and perform hypothesis-driven analysis of measurements.
• Conduct field work to install and operate monitoring systems at the study sites.
• Synthesize knowledge to propose new ways to understand and manage debris flows.

Kenntnisse

MSc in Engineering Geology

Point cloud analysis interest

Debris flow mechanisms

Landslide hazard and risk assessment

Team collaboration

Excellent English communication

Ausbildung

MSc in Engineering Geology / Earth Sciences / Geological Engineering / Geotechnical Engineering

Jobbeschreibung

Doctoral Position in Debris Flow Monitoring

100%, Zurich, fixed-term

The Engineering Geology Group, (Prof. Dr. Jordan Aaron, Geological Institute) is looking for a creative and motivated doctoral candidate with a strong interest in debris flows mechanisms, field monitoring, and natural hazard risk management.

The position is expected to start in January 2027 and is fully funded for 4 years.

Project background

This is an SNSF funded project that aims to improve our understanding and management of debris flows, which are one of the most important hazards in mountainous areas. The project is focussed on collecting and analyzing a unique field data set collected using sensors originally developed for mobile robotics applications.

Job description

• Particular focus will be placed on deriving velocity and flow depth estimates at unprecedented spatial and temporal resolutions by analyzing point cloud and camera data
• You will develop a deep understanding of debris flow motion, and use this to perform hypothesis driven analysis of in-situ debris flow measurements
• You will perform field work to install and operate the systems, as well as to understand sediment transfer at the five study sites
• You will combine all this knowledge to develop new ways to understand and manage debris flows

Profile

• Msc. in Engineering Geology, Earth Sciences, Geological Engineering, Geotechnical Engineering or related fields
• Experience with or interest in point cloud analysis is considered an asset
• Strong interest in debris flow mechanisms
• Strong interest and/or background in landslide hazard and risk assessment
• Motivation, creativity, independence, and ability to work in a team
• Excellent English communication skills

We offer

We are an enthusiastic and collaborative research group with many opportunities for multi-disciplinary cutting‑edge research in engineering geology. There are significant opportunities to broaden your research interests and develop your academic career. We further offer training in teaching through teaching assistantships, as well as access to state‑of‑the‑art laboratories and research equipment.

We value diversity and sustainability

In line with our values, ETH Zurich encourages an inclusive culture. We promote equality of opportunity, value diversity and nurture a working and learning environment in which the rights and dignity of all our staff and students are respected. Visit our Equal Opportunities and Diversity website to find out how we ensure a fair and open environment that allows everyone to grow and flourish. Sustainability is a core value for us – we are consistently working towards a climate‑neutral future.

Curious? So are we.

Applications will be accepted until October 1, 2026.

Questions regarding the position should be directed to Prof. Jordan Aaron, Email: [e-mail] (no applications).

About ETH Zürich

ETH Zurich is one of the world’s leading universities specialising in science and technology. We are renowned for our excellent education, cutting‑edge fundamental research and direct transfer of new knowledge into society. Over 30,000 people from more than 120 countries find our university to be a place that promotes independent thinking and an environment that inspires excellence. Located in the heart of Europe, yet forging connections all over the world, we work together to develop solutions for the global challenges of today and tomorrow.