Doctoral Position in Earth Observation and Remote Sensing
Immigration Policy Lab
Zürich, Switzerland
Posted on Dec 19, 2025
Doctoral Position in Earth Observation and Remote Sensing
100%, Zurich, fixed-term
A doctoral student is sought from spring 2026 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 centres 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 modelling, 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
Workplace
We offer
- Your job with impact: Become part of ETH Zurich, which not only supports your professional development, but also actively contributes to positive change in society
- We are offering a position in an attractive research environment within a young, highly motivated, and international research team
- You can expect numerous benefits, such as public transport season tickets and car sharing, a wide range of sports offered by the ASVZ, childcare and attractive pension benefits
We value diversity and sustainability
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. Sustainability is a core value for us – we are consistently working towards a climate-neutral future.
Curious? So are we.
We look forward to receiving your online application including:
- A cover letter that describes the candidate’s motivation and research experience,
- A full CV,
- Academic transcripts/list of courses completed or on-going, including grades,
- A 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.
For further information, please, contact Prof. Irena Hajnsek (ihajnsek@ethz.ch)
About ETH Zürich
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.