PhD Student "Modelling of water storage in the landscape for demand-oriented multi-purpose use" (f/m/d)

The Swiss Federal Institute for Forest, Snow and Landscape Research (WSL) and the Swiss Federal Institute of Aquatic Science and Technology (Eawag) are internationally networked research institutes within the ETH domain (Swiss Federal Institutes of Technology). We are engaged in the sustainable use and protection of the environment as well as in dealing with natural hazards, conducting research, education, and expert consulting to achieve the dual goal of meeting immediate human water needs while preserving the function and integrity of aquatic ecosystems.

As part of a joint initiative by WSL, Eawag, and Agroscope on "Integrated Water Management: Synergies between Flood Protection, Irrigation, and Biodiversity," we are developing fundamental knowledge for model-based assessment of water storage in the landscape. Our focus is both on a nationwide analysis of the potential for peak flow retention and on the evaluation of local landscape management solutions for water storage. For this joint initiative, we are seeking a qualified candidate from summer/autumn 2026.

You will use various hydrological models to investigate the research topic both at the Swiss level and focused on target areas in the large river valleys of the canton of Aargau. You will examine options to ensure local, nature-based water storage during peak flows and thus improve water supply during dry periods for various purposes. You will collaborate with stakeholders (farmers and local decision-makers) to identify their needs and to strengthen trust in decisions regarding mitigation measures during dry periods and floods. You will publish your results in scientific journals. Your workplace will be at WSL (Birmensdorf/ZH) and Eawag (Dübendorf/ZH), with regular exchanges at Agroscope (Reckenholz/ZH). You will be supervised by scientists from all participating institutions.

You hold a Master of Science in environmental sciences, geosciences, physics, or applied mathematics. Interest and experience in hydrological research with conceptual and physical models are an advantage. You have a solid background in statistical analysis of large datasets (geostatistics and time series) and are proficient in using R and/or Python. You apply your expertise with great motivation to solve current scientific questions and contribute to integrated water management as well as to mitigating climate impacts on water resources and usage. Preferably, you already have experience in writing and publishing scientific papers. Fluent English skills are required for interactions within the institutes; very good German skills and a valid category B driving licence are indispensable for dealing with stakeholders. Your dissertation will be based at the Department of Environmental Sciences at the University of Basel.

Please send your complete application to Beatrice Lamprecht, Human Resources WSL, by uploading a cover letter, your CV, MSc/BSc diploma, and 2 references via our website. The review of applications begins on 30 May 2026. Applications by email will not be considered.  Dr Massimiliano Zappa (WSL), +41 44 739 24 33 , and  Prof Dr Oliver Schilling (Eawag, Uni Basel), phone +41 58 765 5931, will be happy to answer any questions or provide further information. Both at WSL and Eawag, diversity and inclusion are lived values. We are committed to gender equality and to promoting an open and inclusive working environment.