An exciting, fully funded PhD opportunity is available at ETH Zürich within the Geomitigation of Greenhouse Gases group. The project sits at the cutting-edge intersection of experimental geochemistry, cryosphere science, and planetary surface processes.
PhD Position in Cryogenic Carbonate Mineralization and Carbon Dioxide Fluxes, ETH Zürich, Switzerland
Key Information At a Glance
| Feature | Details |
| Designation | PhD Candidate |
| Research Area | Low-Temperature Experimental Geochemistry & Carbon Cycling |
| Location | Zurich, Switzerland |
| Employment Type | 100%, Fixed-term (Fully funded for 4 years) |
| Expected Start Date | January 4, 2027 |
| Application Deadline | August 31, 2026 |
Project Summary
The successful candidate 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). Working with a brand-new experimental platform, the researcher will combine controlled freezing experiments, aqueous geochemistry, gas monitoring, and mineral characterization to understand how ice formation drives carbon storage or release in cold environments.
Eligibility & Qualifications
We are seeking a curious, careful, and resilient candidate motivated by hands-on laboratory work and exploratory research.
- Degree: An MSc degree in geochemistry, Earth sciences, environmental chemistry, chemistry, or a closely related discipline.
- Knowledge Base: Strong interest or background in low-temperature geochemistry, water-rock interactions, mineral formation, carbonate and aqueous redox chemistry, or cryosphere science.
- Skills: Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and quantitative chemical data handling skills.
- Language: Excellent spoken and written English.
- Experience with reactive-transport/geochemical modeling is beneficial but not required.
Job Description
- Lead and execute controlled cryogenic laboratory experiments using customized freezing/thawing reactor systems.
- Measure and interpret liquid and gas geochemical data using advanced analytical instrumentation (e.g., Gas analyzers, HPIC, ICP-OES, UV-Vis Spectroscopy, Potentiometric Titration).
- Recover and characterize carbonate minerals formed during freezing using mineralogical and microscopic techniques.
- Develop and parameterize a predictive kinetic framework using time-resolved geochemical measurements.
- Synthesize datasets and disseminate findings through scientific manuscripts and international conferences.
- Collaborate closely with the Principal Investigator (Prof. Nicole Fernandez-Franzan), a postdoctoral researcher, and other group members.
How to Apply
Applications must be submitted exclusively through the official ETH Zürich online portal. Applications via email or postal services will not be considered.
Prepare a single application containing the following documents:
- Cover letter describing your motivation and research interests (max. 2 pages)
- Curriculum Vitae (CV) (max. 2 pages)
- Bachelor’s and Master’s transcripts
- Master’s Diploma (digital copy)
- Contact details for two academic references (no letters needed at this stage)
To submit your application, visit the job posting and click Apply online now.
Note: For specific questions regarding the position, you can reach out to Prof. Nicole Fernandez-Franzan at nicole.fernandez@eaps.ethz.ch (do not send applications to this email).
Last Date to Apply
The deadline for applications is August 31, 2026. Candidates can expect to hear back 2 to 3 weeks after the submission deadline.
