Student Research Assistant - Development and assembly of instruments for atmospheric research
Immigration Policy Lab
Zurich, Switzerland
Student Research Assistant – Development and assembly of instruments for atmospheric research
10%-30%, Zurich, fixed-term
The Atmospheric Physics group at ETH Zurich is looking for a Student Research Assistant to support the development and assembly of instruments used during field campaigns. Our research group studies the crucial role of clouds and aerosols in the climate system, aiming to better understand how cloud microphysical processes drive both precipitation formation and the radiative impact of clouds.
Project background
This role directly supports our research efforts by building the instruments we deploy in the field. The primary instrument is a custom holographic imager developed within our group. It uses in-line open-path holography to capture 2D images of cloud particles in a well-defined volume. With this we can reconstruct the position, shape, and size of cloud droplets as small as 5.5 µm and ice crystals up to several millimeters. Our latest development is a lightweight version named HOLIMOAir. With two units already completed, the plan is to build an additional 2–3 units by the end of the year. This includes making adaptations to ensure they are suitable for wind tunnel measurements and deployment in the Antarctic.
Job description
- Building further HOLIMOAir units and develop upgrades for other instrumentation
- Mechanical assembly of instrument housing and optical components
- Soldering of cable assemblies and PCBs, testing of electronics
- Upgrading of sofware running on instrumentation
- Support instrument integration, calibration, and field campaign preparation
- Assist with maintenance and basic documentation
Profile
- Enrolled student at ETH Zurich or another Swiss university
- Background or strong interest in mechatronics, optics, electronics with hands-on experience
- Manual dexterity and careful working style, workshop and/or electronics experience is a plus
- Basic python programming skills, linux command line experience a plus
- Interest in experimental or field-based research
Workplace
Workplace
We offer
- Direct involvement in cutting-edge atmospheric research
- Flexible working hours (10–15 h/week during semester, possibility for more during breaks)
- Standard ETH student assistant salary
- Opportunity for a long-term engagement (≥1 year)
We value diversity and sustainability
Curious? So are we.
We look forward to receiving your online application, including the following documents:
- A short motivation letter (max. 1 page) highlighting your relevant experience and interest in the position
- Your current Curriculum Vitae (CV)
Review of applications will start May 8th and continue until the position is filled. The preferred start date is as soon as possible.
For any questions related to the project or this position, please contact Dr. Jan Henneberger (jan.henneberger@env.ethz.ch).