PhD Position in Atmospheric Chemistry

About the role

The Atmospheric Chemistry group at the Institute for Atmospheric and Climate Science (IAC) at ETH Zurich is looking for a 4-year PhD student in Zurich to study oxidized nitrogen in the troposphere. The group researches the processes controlling tropospheric gases and particles and their link to global change, using global models such as GEOS-Chem and CESM and large observational datasets. The project aims to improve the representation of oxidized nitrogen cycles in a global 3D model, test simulations against airborne, surface and satellite observations, and examine how changing NOx emissions have affected tropospheric NOx over time.

Key responsibilities

• Develop skills in atmospheric chemistry, global modeling and data analysis of field observations.
• Present at conferences to develop scientific communication skills.
• Write scientific papers and co-supervise bachelor's and master's theses.

Required profile

• MSc degree in atmospheric science, earth science, environmental science, chemistry, physics or a related field, obtained before the PhD starts.
• Experience in atmospheric chemistry; experience with regional or global modeling is desirable.
• Strong programming skills are necessary.
• Good spoken and written English is essential.

What we offer

• Supervision by Prof. Colette Heald, with regular one-on-one meetings.
• A group of international researchers working in English, with biweekly group meetings.
• Participation in the institute's seminar series.
• Standard employment conditions at ETH, with funding secured for 4 years; start between March and September 2027.

Applications are made online only, with a CV, a one-page summary of the master thesis, copies of certificates and contact details for 2-3 references. Evaluation starts 15 November 2026.