Job Summary
The Environmental Chemistry Group at ETH Zurich, in collaboration with the Swiss Federal Institute of Aquatic Science and Technology (Eawag), is seeking a Postdoctoral Researcher to investigate the adsorption and environmental fate of synthetic water-soluble polymers. This research aims to understand the mechanisms driving polymer transport, retention, and bioavailability in natural and engineered systems.
Job Details
| Designation | Postdoctoral Researcher |
| Research Area | Environmental Chemistry, Surface/Interfacial Chemistry, Polymer Science |
| Location | Zurich and Dübendorf, Switzerland |
| Duration | Fixed-term (up to 2 years) |
| Start Date | Late 2026 or early 2027 |
Research Area
The project focuses on the interaction forces driving polymer adsorption, the reversibility of attachment, and the conformations that polymers adopt on surfaces. The research will explore how functional group chemistry, charge, and molecular weight interact with surface characteristics and solution conditions to govern environmental mobility.
Job Description
The successful candidate will be responsible for:
- Investigating polymer adsorption onto model mineral and organic surfaces, soils, sediments, and sludge.
- Conducting batch adsorption and desorption experiments across various polymers and sorbents.
- Performing column experiments to assess polymer retention and transport under flowing conditions.
- Utilizing in situ surface measurements to investigate adsorbed amounts and polymer conformations.
- Applying high-resolution mass spectrometry to characterize polymer fractions in solution.
- Collaborating with industry partners and regulatory stakeholders to connect mechanistic findings with practical environmental assessments.
- Publishing research findings in peer-reviewed journals and presenting at international conferences.
Eligibility/Qualification
Applicants must meet the following criteria:
- A PhD in surface or interfacial chemistry, colloid science, polymer science, environmental chemistry, materials science, or a closely related field.
- Strong experimental experience in adsorption, desorption, attachment, or the characterization of solid–water interfaces.
- Experience with surface-sensitive analytical techniques, polymer characterization, or column transport studies is highly valued.
- Ability to design and quantitatively interpret complex experiments independently.
- Excellent written and spoken English skills.
- Motivation to work in an interdisciplinary team and engage with industrial/regulatory stakeholders.
How to Apply
Applications must be submitted through the ETH Zurich or Eawag online application portal. Please provide the following documents in a single PDF file:
- A cover letter (1–2 pages) explaining your motivation and describing a relevant example of your previous research.
- A Curriculum Vitae (CV) including a full publication list.
- Copies of up to three relevant publications.
- Relevant degree certificates and academic transcripts.
- Contact information for three references.
Questions regarding the position should be directed to Prof. Dr. Michael Sander at michael.sander@env.ethz.ch (note: applications sent via email will not be considered).
Last Date for Apply
Evaluation of applications will begin on October 26, 2026, and will continue until the position is filled.
Apply Link
Apply Online – ETH Zurich Postdoctoral Position
