PhD position in Paleoclimate research 784 views

The Climate Geology Group of the Department of Earth Science at ETH Zurich invites application for a PhD position in the field of Paleoclimate. The Climate Geology Group uses geochemical and microfossil indicators to study past climate and the responses of marine organisms to past environmental change.

About the research:

• The goal of this research project is to provide new “snapshots” of the surface ocean temperatures at globally distributed locations during several specific past warm time intervals, the type of data needed to robustly estimate past mean global temperature and the tropical to polar temperature gradient during past warm intervals for comparison with climate models.
• The project involves calibration efforts comparing clumped isotope ratios in coccoliths produced in known temperatures.

Requirements:

• Applicant must be highly motivated student fascinated by climate and paleoclimate, excited by original research, and prepared to adapt and grow through the challenges of a research project.
• Applicant must have a Bachelor’s and Master’s Degree in Geology or Earth Science, or exceptionally a closely related field.
• Prior experience in a laboratory, as well as committment to learning to operate analytical instrumentation, is expected.
• applicant should have relevant courses in Geochemistry and Paleoclimate. Reasonable quantitative skills are expected.
• Very good English skills, including ability to write and organize scientific reports and in English is expected.
• Prior competence in German is not required.

Applications:

Apply online and application with the following documents:

• Cover letter (please indicate time of availability to start the project and names and contact information of three references).
• One page statement of motivation for applying to this PhD position, including a review of achievements and why candidate’s prior coursework and laboratory and research experience qualifies you to undertake this research project.
• CV including degrees and date or expected completion date of the Master’s degree, relevant courses, prior research experience, and prior experience working in a research laboratory and any previous experience working hands-on with analytical instrumentation.