Group Leader in Experimental Atmospheric Chemistry / Group Leaderess in Experimental Atmospheric Chemistry

Group Leader in Experimental Atmospheric Chemistry

Institute for Atmospheric and Climate Science, ETH Zurich

The terrestrial biosphere plays a crucial role as both a source of reactive gases and particles in the atmosphere and an important sink for these substances. Vegetation phenology and meteorology significantly influence the deposition of reactive gases, with these fluxes also responding to ongoing changes in land use and climate. Despite the vital impact of biosphere-atmosphere exchange on atmospheric composition, the detailed processes involved are not yet fully understood and remain highly parameterized in models. Long-term eddy flux observations, which are scarce globally, are essential for investigating these processes and enhancing model parameterizations.

Position Overview

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

• Implementing and expanding an eddy flux measurement capacity for reactive trace gases and/or particles.
• Developing and managing a scientific and measurement portfolio within ETH.
• Deploying, analyzing, and maintaining measurement systems while publishing significant scientific results.
• Supervising MS, PhD, and postdoctoral researchers, while actively seeking external funding to support their work.
• Participating in teaching activities at ETH, primarily as the lead instructor for a Field Course in Atmospheric Chemistry.

Qualifications

Applicants should possess the following qualifications:

• A PhD in atmospheric science or a related field.
• A minimum of eight years of post-PhD research experience.
• Experience in atmospheric chemistry field measurements, with an emphasis on flux measurements and/or mass spectrometry.
• Proven strong communication skills demonstrated through a robust publication and presentation record.
• Teaching and/or research supervision experience is required.
• Demonstrated scientific leadership and independence.
• Proficiency in English (spoken and written); knowledge of German is a plus but not mandatory.

Employment Details

Employment will follow standard regulations at ETH. The anticipated start date is January 2026, which can be adjusted based on mutual agreement. The initial appointment will be for four years, with the possibility of a permanent position thereafter.

The Atmospheric Chemistry group, led by Prof. Colette Heald, focuses on investigating processes that control tropospheric composition in connection with global change. Our research utilizes global models alongside field and satellite observations. This role will contribute to the creation of a robust experimental sub-group. Our team, composed of international researchers, fosters a collaborative and supportive environment, with English as the primary working language. Group members engage with a diverse range of topics through biweekly meetings. The group is part of the Institute for Atmospheric and Climate Science, which offers a seminar series and maintains educational programs at both Bachelor's and Master's levels. Located on ETH’s central campus, the group has access to high-quality laboratory facilities. The Group Leader will be provided with dedicated laboratory space and equipment funding to develop the experimental atmospheric chemistry sub-group.

Apply online using the form below. Please be advised that only applications matching the job profile will be considered.

Contact Information

For further inquiries regarding the position, interested candidates who meet the eligibility criteria may contact Prof. Colette Heald via email at Show e-mail.ch">Show e-mail.

Applications will be accepted until August 1, 2025, for full consideration, with evaluations continuing until the position is filled.

Region: Zürich / Zurich

Job Type: Scientific Employees / Wissenschaftliche Mitarbeitende