Doctoral position: Influence of river morphodynamic processes on fluvial habitat dynamics

Doctoral position: Influence of river morphodynamic processes on fluvial habitat dynamics

Water and ice are our passion at the Laboratory of Hydraulics, Hydrology and Glaciology (VAW), in the Department of Civil, Environmental and Geomatic Engineering (D-BAUG) at ETH Zurich. We work in the domains of hydraulic engineering and structures, river engineering, numerical modelling, and glaciology. Our fields of activity are inland waters, hydropower, glaciers, natural hazards, river restoration, river morphodynamics, and river infrastructure. We contribute to the availability of clean and renewable electricity, to the protection against floods and cryospheric hazards, to sustainable watercourses and the generation of new knowledge in the corresponding fields.

Freshwater habitats host a disproportionately large number of species, but they are often threatened because of anthropogenic alterations in flow and sediment regime, channelization and water quality changes. The quantification and characterization of fluvial habitat dynamics are critical to support the design of restoration and conservation measurements, as well as adaptation strategies in a changing environment. It is widely recognized that habitat dynamics are tightly connected with sediment dynamics. However, despite relevant advancements in both river habitat and morphodynamic modelling in recent decades, the understanding of the influence of morphodynamics on fluvial habitats is still challenging.

This doctoral research project aims to investigate the relationships between habitat and morphological processes primarily via numerical modelling. The project will shed light on the effects of floods and sediment supply/deficit on habitat quality and quantity. The analysis should target different river settings representative of Alpine regions. This doctoral project will be part of the interdisciplinary research program “Hydraulic Engineering and Ecology” among different Swiss research institutions.

The research activities involve:

• Analysis of existing dataset on both laboratory experiments and field sites
• Collaboration with a parallel experimental project on river widenings, for further model testing
• Hydro-morphodynamic simulations with the in-house tool BASEMENT
• Habitat modelling with selected existing approaches
• Development of a quantitative approach for the evaluation of the influence of morphodynamic processes on habitat dynamics
• Close interdisciplinary collaboration and scientific exchange with program partners
• Publication of articles in scientific journals and presentation of results at national and international meetings and conferences
• Doctoral studies (total of 12 ECTS)

The starting date is negotiable with the latest start in autumn 2022. The planned project duration is 4 years.

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.

• Master's degree in environmental or civil engineering, environmental sciences, or equivalent; specialization in river/hydraulic engineering or river processes is a plus
• Coding and data analysis experience
• Experience with environmental and/or hydro-morphodynamic modelling
• Experience with environmental data collection (fieldwork) is a plus
• Good communication skills and ability to work in a team
• Proficient command of the English language, written and spoken German is a plus

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.

We look forward to receiving your online application with the following documents by April 30th 2022:

• CV
• cover letter with a short description of your motivation and research interests (1-page max)
• abstract or summary of own research work, e.g., Master's thesis (1-page max)
• complete academic transcript including undergraduate and graduate courses
• contact information, including e-mail of 2 referees

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

Further information about the Laboratory of Hydraulics, Hydrology and Glaciology (VAW) can be found on our website . Questions regarding the position should be directed to Dr Davide Vanzo, [email protected] (no applications).