Are you passionate about biodiversity, molecular ecology, and making a real-world environmental impact? A fully funded PhD position is now open at the Swiss Federal Institute of Aquatic Science and Technology (Eawag), in collaboration with the University of Zurich. This 4-year doctoral opportunity focuses on environmental DNA (eDNA) and freshwater ecosystem monitoring in Switzerland.
This cutting-edge research is part of the National Research Program (NRP82): Future-proofing freshwater ecosystems across Switzerland. The selected PhD candidate will play a central role in transforming how aquatic biodiversity is monitored using high-throughput eDNA-based tools.
🌊 About the Research Project: Future-Proofing Swiss Freshwater Ecosystems
Freshwater habitats are increasingly threatened by climate change, pollution, and habitat loss. Traditional ecological monitoring methods are often outdated and inefficient. This PhD project aims to overcome these limitations by using eDNA metabarcoding and high-throughput sequencing (HTS) to monitor aquatic ecosystems in real-time.
Key Objectives:
- Develop and apply advanced eDNA metabarcoding protocols
- Generate national-scale biodiversity indicators
- Build real-time sampling and monitoring toolkits
- Collaborate with key stakeholders like FOEN/BAFU and cantonal authorities
- Inform Swiss national environmental policies and conservation strategies
🎓 PhD Responsibilities
As a PhD researcher in this program, your work will include:
- Leading field sampling campaigns across surface and groundwater ecosystems in Switzerland
- Conducting molecular laboratory work for eDNA analysis
- Analyzing HTS data and contributing to bioinformatics pipelines
- Designing and refining tools for integration into national monitoring frameworks
- Participating in stakeholder workshops to develop actionable ecological insights
👩🔬 Ideal Candidate Profile
To qualify, applicants should have:
- A Master’s degree in Molecular Ecology, Ecology, Microbiology, or related fields
- Hands-on experience with eDNA, HTS, and bioinformatics
- Familiarity with ecological theory and biodiversity data analysis
- Excellent scientific writing and communication skills in English
- Proficiency in German or French and a valid driver’s license (strongly preferred)
- A strong interest in applied environmental research and stakeholder collaboration
💼 What’s Offered
- A fully funded 4-year PhD position (Start: October 2025 – January 2026)
- Supervision by Prof. Dr. Florian Altermatt (Eawag & University of Zurich)
- Co-supervision by Marie-Sophie Renevier (FOEN/BAFU)
- Dual affiliation with Eawag (Dübendorf) and University of Zurich
- Enrollment in the prestigious Life Science Zurich Graduate School – Ecology Program
- Access to world-class research infrastructure and international collaboration
- An opportunity to directly impact Switzerland’s freshwater conservation strategies
📍 Program & Location Details
- Location: Dübendorf/Zurich, Switzerland
- Duration: 4 years
- Graduate Program: Life Science Zurich PhD Program – Ecology
- Start Date: Between October 2025 and January 2026
- Application Deadline: 13 August 2025
📑 How to Apply
Submit your application online only via the official portal (🔗 Apply Here).
Required documents (combine into a single PDF):
- A motivational letter explaining your fit for the position
- A detailed CV with contact details
- Copies of academic transcripts and diplomas
- Contact information for three academic referees
⚠️ Note: Email applications will not be considered.
For further information, visit 👉 www.altermattlab.ch or contact Prof. Dr. Florian Altermatt directly.
🇨🇭 Why Choose Zurich for Your PhD?
Zurich is one of the world’s top cities for academic excellence and quality of life. As a PhD student, you’ll enjoy:
- A vibrant, international research environment
- Proximity to the Swiss Alps and diverse outdoor activities
- Excellent public transportation and urban infrastructure
- A culturally rich and sustainable city
🌍 Commitment to Diversity
Eawag and the University of Zurich are committed to diversity, equity, and gender inclusion. Applications are strongly encouraged from individuals underrepresented in ecology and environmental sciences.
🌱 Contribute to Real-World Environmental Change
This PhD opportunity is more than just academic training—it’s your chance to:
- Advance the science of eDNA monitoring
- Influence national environmental policy
- Help protect freshwater biodiversity in a rapidly changing world
Ready to make an impact in aquatic ecology and conservation? Apply now and become part of the next generation of environmental changemakers.