The Atmospheric Physics group at the Institute for Atmospheric and Climate Science (IAC), ETH Zurich invites applications for a PhD position (3 to 4 years) focused on modeling aerosol-cloud-radiation interactions using high-resolution simulations (ICON-LEM) within the BeyondCloudlab project. Our research group studies the role of clouds and aerosols in the climate system. Our goal is to gain a better understanding of how cloud microphysical processes drive both precipitation formation and the cloud's radiative impact.

The BeyondCloudlab project leverages weather modification techniques to enhance our understanding of aerosol-cloud interactions, ice crystal growth, cloud-radiation interactions, precipitation initiation, and cloud seeding. Building upon the Cloudlab project, the collaborating SNF project BeyondCloudLab (4 PhDs, 2 PostDocs) brings together a team including Prof. Lohmann and Dr. Henneberger (ETH) working on cloud microphysics and seeding, Prof. Mohr (PSI/ETH) leading aerosol chemical analysis, and Dr. David and Dr. Carlsen (University of Oslo) focusing on aerosol-cloud-radiation interactions.

This PhD position focuses specifically on using and refining the ICON model in Large-Eddy Mode (ICON-LEM) to simulate the cloud seeding experiments conducted during the project and improve process-level parameterizations. The envisioned tasks involve:

• Setting up and running high-resolution ICON-LEM simulations mimicking cloud seeding experiments performed in the field campaigns.
• Participating in field campaigns in Switzerland in the winter months, including operating UAVs.
• Evaluating and improving model parameterizations in rain (collision-coalescence) and snow (diffusional ice growth, aggregation, riming) formation by comparing simulation results with detailed observational data from the field campaigns.  
• Simulating and diagnosing the radiative impacts of aerosol perturbations (seeding) in ICON-LEM and comparing these with field measurements.
• Collaborating closely with experimental team members to integrate observations and modeling efforts.
• Publishing research findings in leading scientific journals and presenting them at international conferences.

• Master's degree (or equivalent) in Atmospheric Science, Physics, Environmental Science, Engineering, or a related field.
• Strong interest in atmospheric modelling and cloud physics/dynamics.
• Experience with running numerical models is an advantage.
• Experience in working in a Linux/Unix high-performance computing environment is a plus.
• Good communication skills in English (written and spoken).
• Ability to work collaboratively and supportively in an international research environment.
• Willingness to participate in multi-week field campaigns in winter conditions.

• A fully funded 3-4 year PhD position at ETH Zurich.  
• Opportunity to directly linking simulations with unique experimental data from intentional cloud perturbations.
• Access to high-performance computing resources and state-of-the-art modeling tools (ICON-LEM).
• A collaborative international research environment involving ETH Zürich, PSI, and the University of Oslo.  

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:

• Cover letter describing motivation and research experience (max 1 page)
• Curriculum vitae
• Digital copies of BSc and MSc educational records
• A digital copy (PDF) of the master’s thesis
• Name and contact details of two referees

Review of applications will begin May 1, 2025 and will continue until the position is filled. The anticipated start date is between July 1 and September 1, 2025. Please contact Dr. Jan Henneberger ([email protected]) in case of questions related to the project and/or to the position.

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.