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 Traditional ecological monitoring methods are often outdated and inefficient.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.

Are you passionate about remote sensing, climate science, and aquatic ecosystems? Eawag – the Swiss Federal Institute of Aquatic Science and Technology – invites applications for a Postdoctoral Position in Remote Sensing of Lake Tipping Points. Based in Switzerland and part of the prestigious ETH Domain, Eawag is internationally known for research, innovation, and sustainable water management.

About the Postdoc Research Project

This postdoctoral fellowship is part of an innovative research initiative focused on ecosystem tipping points in lakes using advanced Earth observation and remote sensing techniques. You will work with high-resolution climate datasets from the European Space Agency’s Climate Change Initiative (ESA CCI) to investigate:

• Environmental indicators in freshwater systems
• Catchment-level variables affecting water quality
• Time-series archives of Essential Climate Variables (ECVs)
• Regional lake case studies with a focus on long-term changes

The project is highly interdisciplinary, combining expertise in remote sensing, limnology, and environmental modeling to understand changes in aquatic ecosystems.

Key Responsibilities

As a postdoctoral researcher, your core tasks will include:

• Designing and refining remote sensing algorithms for aquatic applications
• Analyzing satellite-based ECV datasets and deriving insights
• Assessing and quantifying uncertainty in remote sensing outputs
• Leading research on two lake-region case studies
• Collaborating with experts across multiple scientific disciplines

Candidate Requirements

We’re looking for a driven and detail-oriented researcher with:

• A completed PhD in Remote Sensing, Environmental Science, or a closely related field
• Solid programming experience in Python, MATLAB, or similar languages
• Proficiency in data analysis, statistical modeling, and uncertainty quantification
• Excellent communication skills in English
• Strong organizational and independent research capabilities

Position Details

• Duration: 12 months (with potential for 12-month extension)
• Start Date: Flexible – as per mutual agreement
• Application Deadline: Open until filled (rolling reviews)
• Location: Eawag, Dübendorf, Switzerland

Application Requirements

To apply, submit the following documents via Eawag’s online application portal:

• A motivation letter
• Your updated CV
• Two reference letters

Only online applications will be accepted.

Why Work at Eawag?

At Eawag, you’ll be part of a forward-thinking, inclusive, and collaborative research environment that values:

• Interdisciplinary teamwork and open innovation
• Diversity, equity, and a healthy work-life balance
• Opportunities to contribute to sustainable water science with real-world impact

Contact for inquiries:
Dr. Daniel Odermatt – daniel.odermatt@eawag.ch

Apply Now via Eawag’s Online Portal – Applications are reviewed continuously, so apply early!