PhD Position in Atmospheric Chemistry

The Atmospheric Chemistry group at the Institute for Atmospheric and Climate Science (IAC) – ETH Zurich invites applications for a 4-year PhD position on “Investigating oxidized nitrogen in the troposphere”.

The Atmospheric Chemistry group at ETH conducts research exploring the processes controlling tropospheric composition (gases and particles) and their intersection with global change. Research makes extensive use of global modeling tools (GEOS-Chem and CESM) and analysis of large observational datasets.

Nitrogen oxides (NOx) emitted into the troposphere contribute to the formation of fine particulate matter (PM2.5) and ozone (O3). NOx thus plays a central role in global air quality and climate. Despite this key role, the complex cycling of NOx with other forms of oxidized nitrogen in the troposphere is not well constrained. Our growing understanding of sources and chemical transformations are not yet well represented or tested in large-scale models. The goals of this PhD project will be to better represent these processes in a global 3D model, to test resulting simulations against airborne, surface, and satellite observations, and finally, to investigate how changing NOx emissions have altered the cycling and impacts of tropospheric NOx over time.

• Develop skills in atmospheric chemistry, global modeling, and data analysis of field observations.
• Have opportunities to develop scientific communication skills through presentations at conferences.
• Develop skills in writing scientific papers and in management by co-supervising bachelor’s and master’s theses.

The project will be supervised by Prof. Colette Heald.

• Applicants should hold an MSc degree in atmospheric science, earth science, environmental science, chemistry, physics, or a related discipline (obtained prior to the PhD start date)
• The candidate will have experience in atmospheric chemistry. Experience with regional or global modeling is desirable.
• Strong programming skills are necessary.
• Good knowledge of English (spoken and written) is essential.

Employment will be according to standard regulations at ETH (funding secured for 4 years). The projected start date is September 2026 but can be earlier upon mutual agreement.

Our group is composed of researchers from around the world and offers a friendly and supportive environment, with English as our working language. Researchers in the group work on a wide range of topics and are exposed to each others’ work through biweekly group meetings. Additionally, the student will be supported through regular one-on-one meetings with Prof. Heald. The group is part of the Institute for Atmospheric and Climate Science which hosts a seminar series. The group is located at ETH’s central campus.

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

• CV
• A summary of the applicant’s master thesis (not to exceed 1 page)
• Copy of certificates, including transcript if currently enrolled in MS program
• Contact information for 2-3 references

Further information about Institute for Atmospheric and Climate Science (IAC) can be found on our Website. Questions regarding the position should be directed to Prof. Colette Heald, [email protected] (no applications).

Please note that we exclusively accept applications submitted through our online application portal. Applications via email or postal services will not be considered.

We would like to point out that the pre-selection is carried out by the responsible recruiters and not by artificial intelligence.

Evaluation of applicants will start 1 December 2025 and will continue until the position is filled.