Group Leader in Experimental Atmospheric Chemistry

Group Leader in Experimental Atmospheric Chemistry

Institute for Atmospheric and Climate Science, ETH Zurich

The terrestrial biosphere is a vital source of reactive gases and particles in the atmosphere. It also serves as an important sink, where vegetation phenology and meteorology primarily control the deposition of reactive gases. These fluxes are influenced by changing land use and climate. Despite the crucial role of biosphere-atmosphere exchange in regulating atmospheric composition, the detailed processes governing this exchange remain poorly understood and are highly parameterized in models. Long-term eddy flux observations, which are currently limited worldwide, are essential for investigating these processes and refining model parameterizations.

Position Overview

The Group Leader will spearhead the experimental atmospheric chemistry sub-group at ETH Zurich. Responsibilities include:

• Implementing and expanding eddy flux measurement capabilities for reactive trace gases and/or particles.
• Developing a scientific and measurement portfolio at ETH.
• Deploying, analyzing, and maintaining measurements, as well as publishing scientific results.
• Overseeing MS, PhD, and postdoctoral researchers, with expectations to secure external funding to support scholars.
• Participating in teaching activities at ETH, primarily leading a Field Course in Atmospheric Chemistry.

Qualifications

Applicants should possess the following qualifications:

• A PhD degree in atmospheric science or a related discipline.
• A minimum of eight years of research experience post-PhD, specifically in atmospheric chemistry.
• Extensive experience in atmospheric chemistry field measurements, ideally including flux measurements and/or mass spectrometry.
• Strong communication skills demonstrated through a robust publication and presentation record.
• Experience in teaching and/or research supervision is required.
• Demonstrated scientific leadership and independence.
• Proficiency in English (spoken and written); knowledge of German is a plus but not required.

Employment Details

Employment will adhere to standard regulations at ETH. The projected start date is January 2026, though this can be negotiated. The initial appointment is for a fixed term of four years, with potential for permanent placement.

The Atmospheric Chemistry group, led by Prof. Colette Heald, focuses on research that examines the processes regulating tropospheric composition (gases and particles) and their relationship with global change. Utilizing global models, field, and satellite observations, this position aims to establish an experimental sub-group within the larger team.

The group comprises an international team of researchers, fostering a friendly and supportive environment with English as the working language. Group members engage with a diverse range of topics during biweekly meetings. Furthermore, the group is part of the Institute for Atmospheric and Climate Science, which hosts a seminar series and offers educational programs at the BSc and MS levels. Located at ETH’s central campus, the group has access to high-quality laboratory facilities, with allocated lab space and equipment funds for the successful development of the sub-group.

How to Apply

Apply online using the form below. Only applications matching the job profile will be considered.

Contact Information

For further details regarding the position, interested candidates who meet all eligibility criteria are encouraged to contact Prof. Colette Heald via email at Show e-mail.ch">Show e-mail.

Applications should be submitted by August 1, 2025, for full consideration. Evaluation will continue until the position is filled.

Region: Zürich / Zurich

Job Type: Wissenschaftliche Mitarbeitende / Scientific Employees