PhD position in Earth Observation Remote Sensing

100%, Zurich, fixed-term

A doctoral student is sought from summer/autumn 2025 for a research project at the Institute of Environmental Engineering (IFU), Chair Earth Observation at the
ETH Zürich on Snow and ice parameter estimation using high frequency multi-modal SAR.

Job description

The research focuses on the retrieval of snow and ice parameters and their dynamics using multimodal Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) observations. The aim is to explore two scientific topics within the cryosphere domain.

The first topic involves analyzing SAR interferometry to generate time series of digital elevation models, which will facilitate the quantification of changes in glaciers and ice sheets on a large scale for assessing and estimating mass balance. The second topic centers on the characterization and identification of glacier crevasses and their dynamics over time through high-resolution SAR data.

For the first topic, the methodology is already well established; however, there is potential to extend the analysis to new regions and timeframes to investigate dynamic changes. In contrast, the use of SAR for identifying and characterizing crevasses has seen limited research, necessitating the development of new methods. The approach will involve utilizing high-resolution data (e.g., airborne acquisitions) and exploring various imaging modes, including polarimetry, interferometry, and tomography.

Numerous snow and glacier test sites are available worldwide for these topics, providing valuable ground validation measurements and serving as reference data for satellite observations. All research topics will be assessed in relation to upcoming mission proposals and existing missions, with collaboration from a multidisciplinary and international team.

Profile

We are looking for a highly motivated candidate holding a master’s degree or a diploma in electrical engineering, geomatics engineering, geophysics, computational science, mathematics, physics or a related field. The successful candidate has strong analytical skills and programming experience either in Python, or C/C++, or equivalent. Prior experience in snow/ice modeling, field work and in working with large data sets will be advantageous for the project. Fluency in English is required (oral and written), and it is essential that the candidate is willing to work in a multidisciplinary and international research team. Applicants should hold a valid driver’s license (European Cat. B).

Workplace

We offer

We are offering a position in an attractive research environment within a young, highly motivated, and international research team.

We value diversity

Curious? So are we.

We look forward to receiving your online application with the following documents:

• cover letter that describes the candidate’s motivation and research experience
• current CV
• academic transcripts/list of courses completed or on-going, including grades
• digital copy (PDF) of the master’s thesis
• name and address / contact details of two referees

Please note that we exclusively accept applications submitted through our online application portal. Applications via email or postal services will not be considered.

Further information about our Department can be found on our website . Questions regarding the position should be directed to Prof. Irena Hajnsek, E-Mail schreiben (no applications).

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.