Exciting PhD Opportunity in Urban Water Systems at Eawag
Eawag, the Swiss Federal Institute of Aquatic Science and Technology, is a globally renowned research institute within the ETH Domain (Swiss Federal Institutes of Technology). We specialize in cutting-edge research, education, and expert consulting to advance sustainable water management solutions.
The Chair for Urban Water Systems is seeking a highly motivated doctoral student for a fully funded PhD position in blue-green climate adaptation under deep uncertainty for urban water management.
About the Research Project
Blue-Green Infrastructure (BGI) is a transformative approach to enhance climate resilience in urban areas. In the field of urban drainage, this shift moves from centralized systems to hybrid models with decentralized elements. However, scientific and practical tools for supporting this transition remain underdeveloped.
This PhD project aims to develop evidence-based planning strategies for integrating BGI, moving away from current ad-hoc implementation. The research will address deep uncertainties, including climate change and urban land-use evolution.
Key Research Objectives:
- Enhance the Transition Pathways Generator (TPG): Expand an existing tool to improve stormwater management strategies.
- Spatial Analysis for BGI Potential: Develop models to assess urban areas’ suitability for BGI implementation.
- Scenario Development: Generate climate and land-use change models to assess long-term uncertainties.
- Transition Strategies: Formulate pathways for systematic urban water infrastructure adaptation.
Position Details & Benefits
- Start Date: Summer 2025
- Funding: Fully funded PhD position (100%)
- Location: Eawag, ETH Zürich, Switzerland
- Workload: Primarily research-focused, with up to 10% teaching or support activities
- International Exposure: Opportunities to present research at global conferences and engage with industry practitioners
Eligibility & Candidate Profile
We seek a highly skilled and motivated individual with:
- A Master’s degree (MSc) in Civil or Environmental Engineering, Applied Mathematics, Physics, or Computer Science
- Strong interest in hydroinformatics, hydrology, climate adaptation, and urban resilience
- Proficiency in Python programming and statistical analysis
- Fluent English communication skills (written and spoken); German or French is a plus
- Experience with hydrological or hydrodynamic modeling is highly desirable
- Excellent teamwork, creativity, and problem-solving skills
Why Join Us?
At Eawag & ETH Zürich, you will be part of a dynamic, interdisciplinary research environment with access to:
✅ State-of-the-art computing infrastructure and laboratories
✅ Collaborative and flexible research culture
✅ Opportunities to expand your research expertise
✅ Career development through academic networking and training
Application Process & Deadline
To Apply, Submit the Following Documents:
- Updated CV
- Concise motivation statement (Why this PhD?)
- Academic transcripts
- Contact details of two references
📅 Application Deadline: 21 April 2025 (or until the position is filled)
📅 Interview Process: Online interviews in May, followed by in-person sessions at ETH Zürich/Eawag
How to Apply
📌 Applications must be submitted via our online application portal. Email or postal applications will not be accepted.
📧 For questions (not applications), contact Prof. Max Maurer at max.maurer@eawag.ch.
🔹 Diversity & Inclusion Commitment: Eawag is an equal opportunity employer, promoting gender equality, diversity, and work-life balance.
🚀 Apply Now & Shape the Future of Climate-Resilient Urban Water Management!