PhD position in geochemistry of arsenic groundwater contamination in Vietnam

100%, Zurich, fixed-term

The Inorganic Environmental Geochemistry group at ETH Zurich and Eawag is offering a PhD position in groundwater geochemistry, with a focus on arsenic contamination in river deltas (Red River and Mekong River Deltas) in Vietnam.

Project background

Our group focuses on understanding the biogeochemical cycling and environmental distribution of health-relevant trace elements. The open PhD position is part of the Swiss National Science Foundation (SNF) funded Sinergia project “DeltAs - Evaluating delta-wide changes in geogenic arsenic (As) contamination under anthropogenic pressures: An integrated approach to assess groundwater vulnerability in Vietnam”. The project is a joint multidisciplinary effort from Swiss scientists at ETH-Zurich (L. Winkel, A. Nghiem), Eawag (M. Berg), University of Neuchâtel (P. Renard), and the University of Zurich (UZH) (A. Damm-Reiser), and several partners in Vietnam and the United States. This project is aimed at understanding and studying dynamic changes in groundwater arsenic contamination patterns in the Red River and Mekong River Deltas in Vietnam, by combining hydrogeology, geochemistry, remote sensing, and data science.

Job description

The PhD project is aimed at improving the understanding of dynamic spatial arsenic contamination patterns in groundwater and their underlying factors. Your tasks involve the organization of and active participation in field campaigns in Vietnam, collecting groundwater and sediment samples in the field, designing and carrying out lab experiments, conducting (geo)chemical analyses, and exploring and challenging existing hypotheses on arsenic contamination. In addition, you will have opportunities to investigate your creative ideas within the framework of the project. Throughout the project, you will closely collaborate with other PhD students and postdocs within the DeltAs project and with partners in Vietnam and the US. Excellent communication and knowledge transfer to the DeltAs team members is therefore critical. Another essential aspect of your job involves writing up your results for publication in peer-reviewed journals communicating your results to various audiences, including project partners, and presenting your work at international conferences. Furthermore, it is expected that you will take part in some teaching activities at ETH Zurich and help with organizing DeltAs project workshops in Switzerland and Vietnam.

Your profile

• Possession of an MSc degree in geochemistry, environmental chemistry, or a similar field
• A keen interest in deeply understanding biogeochemical processes and mechanisms
• Capability to think critically and work independently
• A strong foundation in statistical data analysis
• A high level of appreciation for the accuracy and precision in laboratory analysis
• Eagerness to collaborate within an international and diverse team
• Fluent verbal communication and writing skills in English
• A pronounced sense of reliability and self-organization

Your employment will be contracted according to standard regulations at ETH (funding secured for 4 years). The project will start in February 2024 or upon mutual agreement.

Your workplace

Your workplace

We offer

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. The position provides the opportunity to work within an interdisciplinary team from several institutions and develop an international network, allowing for a broadening of perspectives. We offer salaries according to PhD levels at ETH Zurich as well as other attractive working conditions. 

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Curious? So are we.

We look forward to receiving your online application with the following documents:

• Letter explaining your motivation for applying and detailing your relevant experience and qualifications for the position
• Curriculum vitae
• Copies of BSc and MSc educational records
• Names and contact details of two references

The review of applications will start on December 15, 2023, but applications will be accepted until the position is filled.

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 Department of Environmental Systems Science can be found on our website . Questions regarding the position should be directed to Prof. Lenny Winkel, Email: [email protected]  (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.