PhD in land use modeling

Position Overview

Join a dynamic and interdisciplinary research team focused on addressing sustainable spatial and landscape development at a prestigious institution in Zurich. This opportunity involves engaging in critical research aimed at transforming our approach to climate resilience.

Project Background

Funded through the NCCR CLIM+ program by the Swiss National Science Foundation, this four-year endeavor aims to tackle unexplored solution spaces to the climate crisis while developing actionable climate research strategies. Collaboration among institutions ensures access to extensive technical know-how and interdisciplinary expertise in hydrology, forestry, and agriculture.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and apply a land use model (evoland-plus) to forecast future changes in biodiversity and ecosystem services across various socio-economic and climate scenarios.
• Utilize both statistical and process-based approaches to accurately represent hydrology, forest dynamics, and agricultural production, and their impact on land use and ecosystem services.
• Contribute to the creation of robust storylines for plausible futures, incorporating both physical and social dimensions of extreme climate outcomes.
• Transform research findings into policy guidance reports and other documentation.

Candidate Profile

• A highly motivated individual with a MSc degree in Land System Science, Environmental Sciences, Geography, Agricultural Science, or a related field.
• Strong understanding of social-ecological systems, coupled with programming experience and advanced GIS skills.
• Experience in ecosystem services modeling, forest dynamics modeling, hydrological modeling, or species distribution modeling is preferred, with an interest in collaborative interdisciplinary research.
• Proficient in English (both spoken and written); knowledge of German or French is advantageous.

Work Environment and Benefits

• Be a part of a stimulating interdisciplinary environment within an international team.
• Work closely with leading experts across varied fields.
• Enjoy exceptional working conditions at one of the world’s leading universities.
• Access opportunities for academic development, publication, and international networking.

Diversity and Sustainability Commitment

The institution promotes an inclusive culture by fostering equality of opportunity and valuing diversity. A commitment to sustainability underpins all initiatives, with ongoing efforts toward a climate-neutral future.

Research Commitment

Engage with a forward-thinking group dedicated to addressing global challenges by providing innovative solutions through research and collaboration. Explore opportunities for growth in a vibrant academic environment rich with potential for meaningful impact.