EAWAG Dübendorf, Eidg. Anstalt für Wasser-, Abwasserreinigung & Gewässerschutz
Dübendorf
2 days ago
PhD Student*in Modelling of water storage in the landscape for demand-oriented multi-purpose use
- 20 May 2026
- 100%
- Internship
- Dübendorf
Job summary
WSL and Eawag are renowned research institutes focused on environmental sustainability. Join us for a rewarding opportunity, collaborative work culture, and impactful research.
Tasks
- Develop hydrological models for water storage analysis in landscapes.
- Collaborate with stakeholders to improve water supply during dry periods.
- Publish research findings in scientific journals and engage with the community.
Skills
- Master's in Environmental Sciences, Geosciences, Physics or Applied Mathematics.
- Proficiency in R and/or Python for data analysis.
- Strong statistical analysis skills and experience with hydrological research.
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About the job
The Swiss Federal Institute for Forest, Snow and Landscape Research (WSL) and the Swiss Federal Institute of Aquatic Science and Technology (Eawag) are internationally networked research institutes within the ETH domain (Swiss Federal Institutes of Technology). We are engaged in the sustainable use and protection of the environment as well as in dealing with natural hazards and conduct research, education and expert consulting to achieve the dual goal of meeting immediate human water needs while preserving the function and integrity of aquatic ecosystems.
PhD Student*in Modelling of water storage in the landscape for demand-oriented multi-purpose use
As part of a joint initiative by WSL, Eawag and Agroscope on "Integrated Water Management: Synergies between Flood Protection, Irrigation and Biodiversity," we are developing fundamental knowledge for the model-based assessment of water storage in the landscape. Our focus is both on a nationwide analysis of the potential for peak flow retention and on the evaluation of local landscape management solutions for water storage. For this joint initiative, we are seeking a qualified candidate by summer/autumn 2026
You will use various hydrological models to investigate the research topic both at the Swiss level and focused on target areas in the large river valleys of the canton of Aargau. You will examine options to ensure local, nature-based water storage during peak flows and thus improve water supply during dry periods for various purposes. You will collaborate with stakeholders (farmers and local decision-makers) to identify their needs and to strengthen trust in decisions regarding mitigation measures during dry periods and floods. You will publish your results in scientific journals. Your workplace will be at WSL (Birmensdorf/ZH) and Eawag (Dübendorf/ZH), with regular exchanges at Agroscope (Reckenholz/ZH). You will be supervised by scientists from all participating institutions.
You hold a Master of Science in environmental sciences, geosciences, physics or applied mathematics. Interest and experience in hydrological research with conceptual and physical models are an advantage. You have a solid background in the statistical analysis of large datasets (geostatistics and time series) and are proficient in using R and/or Python. You apply your expertise with great motivation to solve current scientific questions and contribute to integrated water management as well as to mitigating the climate impacts on water resources and use. Preferably, you already have experience in writing and publishing scientific papers. Fluent English skills are required for interactions within the institutes; very good German skills and a valid category B driving licence are indispensable for dealing with stakeholders. Your dissertation will be based at the Department of Environmental Sciences at the University of Basel.
You hold a Master of Science in environmental sciences, geosciences, physics or applied mathematics. Interest and experience in hydrological research with conceptual and physical models are an advantage. You have a solid background in the statistical analysis of large datasets (geostatistics and time series) and are proficient in using R and/or Python. You apply your expertise with great motivation to solve current scientific questions and contribute to integrated water management as well as to mitigating the climate impacts on water resources and use. Preferably, you already have experience in writing and publishing scientific papers. Fluent English skills are required for interactions within the institutes; very good German skills and a valid category B driving licence are indispensable for dealing with stakeholders. Your dissertation will be based at the Department of Environmental Sciences at the University of Basel.
Please send your complete application to Beatrice Lamprecht, Human Resources WSL, by uploading a cover letter, your CV, the MSc/BSc diploma and 2 references via our website. The review of applications begins on 30 May 2026. Applications by e-mail will not be considered. Dr Massimiliano Zappa (WSL), +41 44 739 24 33, and Prof Dr Oliver Schilling (Eawag, Uni Basel), phone +41 58 765 5931, will be happy to answer any questions or provide further information. Both WSL and Eawag value diversity and inclusion. We are committed to gender equality and to promoting an open and inclusive working environment.
