Doctoral Position in Debris Flow Monitoring 100%

ETH Zürich; Zürich; Vor Ort; CHF 60.000 - 75.000; Vollzeit

Zusammenfassung

ETH Zürich's Engineering Geology Group invites applications for a fully funded 4-year PhD position starting January 2027 to study debris flows mechanisms, field monitoring and hazard risk management. You will work on processing field data and develop new insights into debris flow motion.

The successful candidate holds a MSc in Engineering Geology or related field, has interest in point cloud analysis, and demonstrates curiosity, independence and strong English communication.

Qualifikationen

• MSc in Engineering Geology or related field.
• Experience with point cloud analysis is an asset.
• Strong interest in debris flow mechanisms and landslide hazards.
• Motivation, independence and ability to work in a team.
• Excellent English communication skills.

Aufgaben

• Derive velocity and flow depth estimates from point cloud and camera data.
• Perform hypothesis-driven analysis of in-situ debris flow measurements.
• Carry out field work to install and operate monitoring systems at five sites.
• Develop new methods to understand and manage debris flows.

Kenntnisse

Creative thinking

Motivation

Independence

Teamwork

English communication

Ausbildung

MSc in Engineering Geology or related field

Tools

Point cloud analysis

Jobbeschreibung

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.

> Working, teaching and research at ETH Zurich

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.

We would like to point out that the pre-selection is carried out by the responsible recruiters and not by artificial intelligence.

Further information about the Department of Earth Sciences can be found on our website.

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

Applications will be accepted until October 1, 2026.