PhD Position in Atmospheric Chemistry 100%, Zurich, fixed-term 17.09.2026 | Institute for Atmospheric and Climate Science (IAC)

This 4-year PhD position focuses on investigating oxidized nitrogen in the troposphere using global modeling and observational data analysis. Key responsibilities include improving global models of nitrogen oxide cycling, validating simulations with observations, and analyzing emission impacts. Applicants need an MSc in a related field, experience in atmospheric chemistry, strong programming skills, and preferably modeling experience.

• Nitrogen oxides (NOx) emitted into the troposphere contribute to the formation of fine particulate matter (PM2.5) and ozone (O3).
• Develop skills in atmospheric chemistry, global modeling, and data analysis of field observations.
• Have opportunities to develop scientific communication skills through presentations at conferences.
• Develop skills in writing scientific papers and in management by co-supervising bachelor’s and master’s theses.
• The project will be supervised by Prof. Colette Heald.

• The Atmospheric Chemistry group at the Institute for Atmospheric and Climate Science (IAC) – ETH Zurich invites applications for a 4-year PhD position on “Investigating oxidized nitrogen in the troposphere”.
• The goals of this PhD project will be to better represent these processes in a global 3D model, to test resulting simulations against airborne, surface, and satellite observations, and finally, to investigate how changing NOx emissions have altered the cycling and impacts of tropospheric NOx over time.
• Applicants should hold an MSc degree in atmospheric science, earth science, environmental science, chemistry, physics, or a related discipline (obtained prior to the PhD start date)
• Good knowledge of English (spoken and written) is essential.