Two doctoral (PhD) positions within the Geophysical Fluid Dynamics group are available within the framework of a Swiss National Science Foundation (SNSF) funded project "Coupled interior-atmosphere evolution of Venus and rocky exoplanets from magma ocean to the present day".  The funding is for a maximum of 4 years and the starting date is between 1st June and 1st October 2024. 

The Geophysical Fluid Dynamics group led by Professors Paul Tackley and Taras Gerya studies flow and deformation ("geodynamics") of the solid Earth and other planetary bodies using computational modelling. Our research covers a wide range of temporal and spatial scales, from features that can be observed by a geologist in the field, to global, 3D spherical models, and a correspondingly wide range of topics, from crustal and lithospheric deformation, to the geochemical evolution of entire planets over billions of years. The group is active in the development of novel numerical methods for studying geodynamic processes and owns a substantial portion of ETH Zurich's high perfomance Euler computuational cluster as well as using the supercomputers at the Swiss Supercomputer Centre (CSCS).

The evolution of rocky planets is a fundamental enigma in planetary science, linked to the question of habitability. Understanding how planets change over time and what differentiates the Earth from its cousins (Venus, and beyond) requires a solid understanding of the processes that have linked the interior of planets to their atmospheres since their origins. On the one hand, the ongoing discovery of rocky exoplanets (around 200 to date) and the study of their atmospheres will make it possible to draw up a catalogue of the many possible evolutions in the universe. On the other hand, Venus is also recognised as a keystone in planetary research efforts, being the most Earth-like planet in the Solar System, an astonishing example of divergent evolution and an analogue on which to test our theories with more complete data than for any other exoplanet. This project is to study how the interior and atmosphere of rocky planets influence each other, and how these interactions govern their evolution from their origins (at the time of the magma ocean) to the present day. We are using state-of-the-art numerical simulations to reproduce as realistic a picture as possible of the processes at work and the climate of the planets studied. The near future will bring an explosion of observations of exoplanet atmospheres and the renewed exploration of Venus (no fewer than 6 missions are planned) will provide a unique opportunity to unravel its mysteries. The project will enable us to take advantage of these two sources of data and further our knowledge of the habitability of planets, the causes of changes in their surface conditions, their distant past and their future.

Your tasks will be:

• To further develop and couple existing numerical models of mantle convection, magma oceans, atmospheric chemistry and surface interaction and recycling, to be applicable to Venus and rocky planets in general.
• To perform state-or-the-art numerical modelling of coupled (interior-atmosphere) planetary evolution.
• To compare modelling results to observations of Venus and of exoplanet atmospheres. 
• To present results at conferences and in written research papers. 

One doctoral student will focus on the coupled atmospheric physics/chemistry + chemical magma ocean model then use it to model coupled atmosphere and magma ocean evolution, while the other will work on implementing mantle volatile transport and the surface-atmosphere interaction and recycling model, then model the long-term atmosphere-interior evolution of exoplanets, although there is some flexibility to make best use of your skills. 

• MSc in Earth science, planetary science, atmospheric science, physics, computational science, or related field.
• Strong programming and other computing skills. 
• Sound knowledge of the English language, both oral and written.
• Ability to work collaboratively in an interdisciplinary team. 
• Keen interest in expanding our knowledge about other planets.
• A curious mind, a positive attitude, a love of research.

ETH Zurich is a family-friendly employer with excellent working conditions. You can look forward to an exciting working environment, cultural diversity and attractive offers and benefits. You can enjoy being based in an international research group of 15-20 scientists with strong research links locally and around the world. The working language of the group is English.

In line with our values, ETH Zurich encourages an inclusive culture. We promote equality of opportunity, value diversity and nurture a working and learning environment in which the rights and dignity of all our staff and students are respected. Visit our Equal Opportunities and Diversity website to find out how we ensure a fair and open environment that allows everyone to grow and flourish.

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

• Curriculum Vitae including any publications
• Academic transcripts of your BSc and MSc degrees.
• Statement of research interests (1 page maximum)
• Names and contact details of 2 referees.

Applications are due by 1st May 2024. We aim to process applications and interview a short list of applicants as quickly as possible after that.

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

For further information see the Department website, the Insitute website and the research group website. Questions regarding the positions should be directed to Professor Paul Tackley (ptackley@ethz.ch) or Dr. Cédric Gillmann (cgillmann@ethz.ch). (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.