PhD Candidate in data-driven and hybrid hydrological modeling

100%, Zurich, fixed-term

We invite applications for a PhD position on Data-driven and hybrid hydrological modeling co-supervised by Manuela Brunner (ETH Zurich, WSL) and Olivia Martius (University of Bern). The position will be hosted at the Institute for Atmospheric and Climate Science at ETH Zurich and will be part of the NCCR CLIM+ programme which is funded by the Swiss National Science Foundation (SNSF).

Project background

The NCCR CLIM+ supports Switzerland in the transformation towards a climate-resilient society. Together with stakeholders, the interdisciplinary NCCR CLIM+ research community tackles unexplored solution spaces to the climate crisis and develops a blueprint for actionable climate research worldwide. NCCR CLIM+ broadly communicates and shares knowledge, and trains a new generation of experts with the necessary domain and transdisciplinary knowledge.

Job description

Within this PhD project, you will:

• Develop new data-driven and/or hybrid hydrological models for Switzerland
• Use these models to depict hydrological storylines under climate change and assess local risks related to the impacts of climate change on the water cycle
• Publish your results in scientific journals and present them at national and international conferences

Profile

• A MSc degree in hydrology, statistics, data science, applied mathematics or a closely related field
• Extensive experience with setting up, fine tuning, and running data-driven or hybrid hydrological models
• Strong programming skills (ideally in Python and/or R)
• Experience in working with large datasets, ideally hydrological, meteorological or climate observations/ simulations.
• Very good oral and written communication skills in English
• Command of one of the national languages is an asset
• Motivation to work in an interdisciplinary and international working environment and a collaborative mindset

Workplace

We offer

• You will join that Hydrology & Climate Impacts in Mountain Regions research group that studies water and climate extremes in mountain regions under global change
• We are an engaged, open-minded, and innovative research group trying to make a difference by doing research relevant for society and decision makers
• You will be part of the NCCR CLIM+ programme and benefit from its extensive exchange and training in inter- and transdisciplinary research
• The NCCR CLIM+ strives to implement equal opportunity at hiring. At NCCR CLIM+ we believe that diversity of thought, background and experience creates better research
• Alternative work location: WSL Institute for Snow and Avalanche Research in Davos

We value diversity and sustainability

Curious? So are we.

We look forward to receiving your online application until 30 April 2026 with the following documents:

• a cover letter,
• your CV,
• diploma certificates and transcripts,
• a link to your MSc thesis (draft or final version),
• and the contact information of two professional references.

Interviews will take place in May 2026. Further information about our group can be found on our website . Questions regarding the position should be directed to Manuela Brunner, 0041 (0)81 4170 342 or manuela.brunner@ env.ethz.ch (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.

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.