PhD Researcher in Experimental Cloud Physics: Analysis of Ice Growth Pathways through Glaciogenic Seeding Experiments

100%, Zurich, fixed-term

The Atmospheric Physics group at the Institute for Atmospheric and Climate Science (IAC), ETH Zurich invites applications for a PhD position (3 to 4 years) to investigate microphysical responses of supercooled clouds to intentional aerosol perturbations within the BeyondCloudlab project. Our research group studies the role of clouds and aerosols in the climate system. Our goal is to gain a better understanding of how cloud microphysical processes drive both precipitation formation and the cloud's radiative impact.

Project background

The BeyondCloudlab project leverages weather modification techniques to enhance our understanding of aerosol-cloud interactions, ice crystal growth, cloud-radiation interactions, precipitation initiation, and cloud seeding. Building upon the Cloudlab project , the collaborating SNF project BeyondCloudLab (4 PhDs, 2 PostDocs) brings together a team including Prof. Lohmann and Dr. Henneberger (ETH) working on cloud microphysics and seeding, Prof. Mohr (PSI/ETH) leading aerosol chemical analysis, and Dr. David and Dr. Carlsen (University of Oslo) focusing on aerosol-cloud-radiation interactions.

Job description

This experimental PhD position focuses on investigating the microphysical changes resulting from glaciogenic seeding. The envisioned tasks involve:

• Participating in field campaigns in Switzerland in the winter months, including operating a tethered balloon system and assisting with UAV/floating balloon operations.
• Analyzing in situ data (holographic imagers) and ground-based remote-sensing data (cloud radar) to derive ice crystal growth rates via different pathways (deposition, riming, aggregation).
• Quantifying the thermal effects of seeding (flare heat, latent heat release from freezing) on cloud dynamics, turbulence, and microphysics, using dedicated experiments (e.g., flares vs. chaff).
• Providing observational constraints on turbulence and thermal effects to improve the representation of microphysical processes in model simulations.
• Collaborating with team members on data analysis, interpretation, and modeling efforts.
• Publishing research findings in leading scientific journals and presenting them at international conferences

Profile

• Master's degree (or equivalent) in Atmospheric Science, Physics, Environmental Science, Engineering, or a related field.
• Strong interest in cloud physics, aerosol science, and field measurements.
• Experience with atmospheric instrumentation or field campaigns is a plus.
• Experience with data analysis (e.g., using Python, or similar tools) is advantageous.
• Good communication skills in English (written and spoken).
• Ability to work collaboratively and supportively in an international research environment.
• Willingness to participate in multi-week field campaigns in winter conditions.

Workplace

Workplace

We offer

• A fully funded 3-4 year PhD position at ETH Zurich.  
• Opportunity to work on a research project using novel experimental techniques to study fundamental cloud processes.
• Hands-on experience with leading edge atmospheric measurement techniques (e.g., holographic imager) and UAV technology.  
• A collaborative international research environment involving ETH Zürich, PSI, and the University of Oslo.  

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Curious? So are we.

We look forward to receiving your online application with the following documents:

• Cover letter describing motivation and research experience (max 1 page)
• Curriculum vitae
• Digital copies of BSc and MSc educational records
• A digital copy (PDF) of the master’s thesis
• Name and contact details of two referees

Review of applications will begin May 1, 2025 and will continue until the position is filled. The anticipated start date is between July 1 and September 1, 2025. Please contact Dr. Jan Henneberger (Jan.Henneberger@env.ethz.ch) in case of questions related to the project and/or to the position.

About ETH Zürich

ETH Zurich is one of the world’s leading universities specialising in science and technology. We are renowned for our excellent education, cutting-edge fundamental research and direct transfer of new knowledge into society. Over 30,000 people from more than 120 countries find our university to be a place that promotes independent thinking and an environment that inspires excellence. Located in the heart of Europe, yet forging connections all over the world, we work together to develop solutions for the global challenges of today and tomorrow.