The Geomitigation of Greenhouse Gases group at ETH Zürich is actively recruiting a highly motivated and creative PhD candidate with a strong interest in low temperature experimental geochemistry. The position is part of a newly funded project at the intersection of experimental geochemistry, cryosphere science, and planetary surface processes. The position is fully funded for 4 years, with an expected start date of 4 January 2027.

In this role, you will investigate how freezing influences carbonate mineral formation and carbon dioxide exchange under conditions simulating cryogenic environments such as glaciers, sea ice, permafrost, and ice-rich planetary systems. You will help contribute to a new experimental platform for low-temperature geochemistry at ETH Zurich and engage in an emerging research direction focused on how ice formation influences carbon cycling in cold environments. The project combines controlled freezing experiments, aqueous geochemistry, gas monitoring, and mineral characterization to develop a process-based framework for understanding when freezing promotes carbon release, carbon storage, or both.

• Lead and execute controlled cryogenic laboratory experiments using customized freezing and thawing reactor systems.
• Measure and interpret liquid and gas geochemical data using a variety of analytical instrumentation (e.g., Gas analyzers, HPIC, ICP-OES, UVVis-Spectroscopy, Potentiometric Titration).
• Recover and characterize carbonate minerals formed during freezing using mineralogical and microscopic technique.
• Develop and parameterize a predictive kinetic framework using time-resolved geochemical measurements.
• Synthesize experimental datasets and disseminate findings through scientific manuscripts.
• Present your research at international conferences and workshops.
• Collaborate closely with the Principal Investigator, a postdoctoral researcher, and other group members while contributing to a supportive and communicative group culture.

We are looking for a candidate that is curious, careful, and motivated by experimental research. You enjoy working with complex geochemical systems and are excited by the challenge of developing new methods and datasets.

• An MSc degree in geochemistry, Earth sciences, environmental chemistry, chemistry, or a closely related discipline.
• A strong interest or background in low-temperature geochemistry, water-rock interactions, mineral formation, carbonate and aqueous redox chemistry, cryosphere science, or related fields.
• Motivation for hands-on laboratory work and experimental troubleshooting.
• Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills, including the ability to work carefully with quantitative chemical data.
• Creativity, resilience, and independence when working on exploratory research questions.
• Ability to work both independently and as part of a collaborative team.
• Excellent spoken and written English.

Experience with reactive-transport/geochemical modeling is beneficial but not required.

• A collaborative research environment: You will join an enthusiastic, inclusive, and highly collaborative research group where high quality research, open discussion, and creative scientific thinking are strongly valued. You will benefit from a dynamic departmental setting with broad expertise, excellent research infrastructure, and opportunities for interdisciplinary exchange.
• Mentorship and career development: You will receive direct mentorship from the PI and senior members of the group along with support in developing your skills in experimental design, data interpretation, scientific writing, and academic framework development.  You will participate in the broader academic community through publications and presentations at scientific conferences. Additional development opportunities are available through teaching assistantships, ETH doctoral courses, and transferable-skills training.
• New experimental platform: You will have access to a newly established low-temperature experimental geochemistry laboratory equipped with high-precision environmental control and analytical instrumentation.
• A supportive and inclusive workspace: We are committed to creating a respectful, inclusive, and constructive working environment. Flexible working arrangements can be discussed where compatible with laboratory and project responsibilities.
• Employment conditions and benefits: We offer a fully funded 48-month PhD position. You can expect numerous benefits, such as public transport season tickets and car sharing, a wide range of sports offered by the ASVZ, childcare, and attractive pension benefits.

We look forward to receiving your online application until 31 August 2026 with the following documents:

• Cover letter describing your motivation and research interests (max. 2 pages)
• Curriculum Vitae (max. 2 pages)
• Bachelors' and Master's transcripts
• Master Diploma (digital copy)
• Contact details for two academic references (no reference letters needed)

Further information about the Geological Institute can be found on our Website. Questions regarding the position should be directed to Prof. Nicole Fernandez-Franzan, [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 will get in touch with you after 2 - 3 weeks following the submission deadline.