Postdoctoral Researcher in Microwave Remote Sensing for Water Systems Research

European Geosciences Union; Zürich; Hybrid; CHF 85,000 - 110,000; Full time

Job summary

University of Zurich invites a Postdoctoral Researcher in Microwave Remote Sensing for Water Systems to advance research on water bodies using microwave remote sensing, including SAR and GNSS reflectometry. The role entails interdisciplinary collaboration and supervision of students.

Applicants should hold a PhD in a related field, demonstrate strong publication records, and be proficient in English; German knowledge is preferred. Start Feb 2027 or later.

Qualifications

• PhD in remote sensing or related field.
• Strong experience with satellite-based microwave remote sensing (SAR, GNSS Reflectometry).
• Experience with multi-sensor approaches for water-related applications.
• Excellent English; German knowledge preferred.

Responsibilities

• Conduct research in microwave remote sensing of water systems.
• Collaborate on interdisciplinary research projects.
• Publish and present scientific results.

Skills

Microwave remote sensing

Satellite data analysis

In situ methods

Drone data integration

Team collaboration

Academic publishing

Education

PhD in remote sensing or related field

Tools

SAR

GNSS Reflectometry

Altimetry

Active/Passive microwave

Job description

Postdoctoral Researcher in Microwave Remote Sensing for Water Systems Research

Employer

University of Zurich, Remote Sensing of Water Systems

The Remote Sensing of Water Systems group is a joint professorship at the University of Zurich and Eawag in Siwtzerland. Our research and teaching activities focus on the use of remote sensing to study water systems across terrestrial and aquatic environments. We follow a highly interdisciplinary approach ranging from methodological to applicational development and incorporate diverse remote sensing technologies (e.g., optical, thermal, microwave, sound) from in situ to airborne to satellite sensors.

We are looking for a highly motivated, creative, and team-oriented postdoctoral researcher in microwave remote sensing with a high interest in studying water systemsto strengthen our team. Example research activities of our team include the assessment of local and large-scale forest drought damage caused by climate extremes, the quantification of catchment water balance and surface water dynamics, flood detection, or the 3D exploration of inland waters.

Your responsibilities

• Conduct research in the field of microwave remote sensing of water systems
• Collaboration in interdisciplinary research projects
• Publication and outreach of scientific results
• Teaching and supervision of BSc, MSc, and PhD students
• Contribute to fund raising activities

Your profile

• You have a PhD degree in remote sensing, physics, geography, environmental science, or a related field.
• You see this position as an opportunity to pursue your own professional goals and continue your professional development.
• You have substantial experience in working with satellite-based microwave remote sensing (e.g., SAR, GNSS transmissivity and reflectometry, active or passive microwave, altimetry).
• You are interested in working with in situ- and drone-based approaches.
• You can connect signals with processes and applications.
• You understand the added value of working with multi-sensor approaches to serve water-related applications.
• You have excellent written and verbal communication skills in English and (preferably) knowledge of German.
• You enjoy working with others and contributing your ideas to the team.

The position is fully funded for a period of initially one year, an extension to more years is possible. Start of employment is February 2027 or upon agreement.