PhD Position in Reflection Seismology: The Institute of Geophysics at the Department of Earth and Planetary Sciences of ETH Zurich invites applications for a fully funded 4-year PhD position focused on reflection seismology for Carbon Capture and Sequestration (CCS). This research aims to assess the feasibility and safety of COâ‚‚ injection into the Swiss subsurface, contributing to Switzerland’s commitment to achieving net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050.
PhD Position in Reflection Seismology for Carbon Capture and Sequestration
Designation
PhD Candidate
Research Area
Reflection Seismology and Carbon Capture and Sequestration (CCS)
Location
ETH Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
Eligibility/Qualification
- Master’s degree in geophysics, physics, applied mathematics, or a closely related field.
- Strong background in seismic methods, signal processing, and/or wave physics.
- Experience or strong interest in seismic data processing, imaging, and inversion.
- Good programming skills (e.g., Python, MATLAB) and willingness to work with large datasets.
- Good command of English (spoken and written); basic understanding of German is an advantage but not mandatory.
- Ability to work independently as well as in a collaborative, interdisciplinary environment.
Job Description
- Process and image newly acquired high-density 3D seismic datasets.
- Integrate extensive passive seismic recordings and borehole seismic data into workflows.
- Develop seismic monitoring strategies for COâ‚‚ injection.
- Design and analyze surface-based and borehole distributed acoustic sensing (DAS) measurements.
- Process and interpret time-lapse seismic data to track COâ‚‚ plume migration.
- Collaborate within an interdisciplinary team of geophysicists and engineers.
- Present and publish results in international conferences and peer-reviewed journals.
How to Apply
Interested candidates should submit the following documents through the online application portal:
- CV
- Motivation letter
- Summary of Master’s thesis (maximum 1 page)
- Copies of degree certificates and transcripts (including current transcript if enrolled in an MSc program)
- Contact information for 2-3 referees
Note: Applications via email or postal services will not be considered.
Last Date to Apply
Evaluation of applicants will start on 15 January 2026 and will continue until the position is filled. Early applications are encouraged.
