Postdoctoral Researcher on the Development and Application of Digital Twin Workflows for Earthquake Rupture at LMU Munich and ETH Zurich

80%-100%, fixed-term

The Department of Earth and Environmental Sciences at the Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität (LMU) in Munich and the Institute of Geophysics at the Swiss Federal Institute of Technology (ETH) in Zurich seek a postdoctoral researcher to work within the framework of the EU Horizon DT-GEO project, which aims at deploying a prototype digital twin (DT) for anthropogenic geophysical extreme forecasting.

Project background

The DT-GEO project aims to develop and apply interrelated Digital Twin Components (DTC) dealing with different types of geohazards including natural and anthropogenic induced earthquakes, and triggered tsunamis. Here, we are looking for a postdoctoral researcher contributing to the development of the DTC related to Dynamic Rupture Earthquake Forecasting with the following goals: designing high-performance computing multi-physics simulations constrained by seismic, geodetic, and geological observations, ensemble earthquake rupture scenarios, assess extreme events, and provide physics-based output to quantify shake maps and ground motion models. The DTC will be applied to the natural laboratory at the BedrettoLab (Bedretto Underground Laboratory for Geosciences and Geoenergies), which is located in the Swiss Alps.

Job description

The position requires excellent teamwork abilities and communication skills. You will be expected to develop and implement an independent research agenda, publish papers in high-level peer-reviewed journals, and participate in international conferences.

Your profile

We are seeking a highly motivated individual with a strong interest in earthquake physics, seismology, physics-based modelling, and geophysics: 

• A PhD degree in Earth Sciences / Physics / Mathematics / Mechanics or a related discipline is required.
• A strong foundation in modern scientific programming (e.g., Python, C++, Julia) would be ideal.
• Ideally, you have some experience in developing and implementing testing procedures.
• Strong quantitative background and experience in computational methods and physics-based modeling.
• Additionally, you have excellent communication skills in English (oral and written) and you look forward to working independently in an interdisciplinary and international research team. We encourage applications from enthusiastic and dedicated individuals.

Your workplace

Your workplace

We offer

This project is embedded in an exciting research environment, with a large, diverse and interdisciplinary research team. You will work at LMU Munich for the first year and at ETH Zurich for the second year with Prof. Dr. Alice-Agnes Gabriel (LMU), Dr. Luca Dal Zilio (ETH), and in close collaboration with the project partners. The position is for a fixed term of 2 years and the salary will be adjusted to the cost of living in Munich and Zurich.

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Curious? So are we.

We look forward to receiving your online application with the following documents by February 10th 2023:

• Motivation letter (max. 2 pages)
• Full CV
• The names and contact details of 2 referees who may be contaced during the selection process

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

Questions regarding the position should be directed to Prof. Dr. Alice-Agnes Gabriel ([email protected] ) Dr. Luca Dal Zilio ([email protected] ) by e-mail (no applications). 

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.