PhD Position in Civil Engineering

ETH Zurich

Employment Type: Full-time (100%)

Location: Zurich, Switzerland

Institution: ETH Zurich

Institute: Institute of Environmental Engineering

Chair: Chair of Earth Observation and Remote Sensing

Position Type: Fixed-term PhD Position

Start Date: Autumn/Winter 2026

Overview

The Chair of Earth Observation and Remote Sensing at the Institute of Environmental Engineering, ETH Zurich, is seeking a highly motivated PhD student for a research project titled:

Multi-modal SAR for Large-Scale Rapid Change Observations in Permafrost Regions

The project focuses on developing advanced methods for monitoring environmental changes in Arctic permafrost regions using multi-modal Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) data.

Research Project

The doctoral research will focus on:

  • Investigating and developing generic methods and algorithms for multi-modal Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR).
  • Estimating environmental parameters across Arctic regions.
  • Using SAR as an active remote sensing technique to estimate:
    • Topographic heights.
    • Surface displacements.
    • Quantitative biophysical parameters.
  • Supporting applications such as:
    • Infrastructure monitoring.
    • Detection of permafrost-related subsidence.

A major focus of the project is the study of Retrogressive Thaw Slumps (RTS), one of the fastest and most significant landscape changes occurring in Arctic regions.

These thaw slumps:

  • Alter ecosystem and hydrological balances.
  • Contribute to global climate change by releasing organic carbon previously stored in frozen soils.
  • Can only be monitored effectively through satellite-based remote sensing because of the remoteness of Arctic landscapes.

The project proposes investigating TanDEM-X difference Digital Elevation Models (DEMs) to detect RTS at:

  • Pan-Arctic scale.
  • Watershed scale.
  • Local scale.

The primary data source will be the TanDEM-X German satellite mission, which has collected extensive datasets over multiple years for studying Arctic surface processes.

Job Description

The successful candidate will conduct research on:

  • Developing algorithms for multi-modal SAR data analysis.
  • Estimating environmental parameters from SAR observations.
  • Detecting and monitoring Retrogressive Thaw Slumps (RTS).
  • Processing and analyzing TanDEM-X satellite datasets.
  • Developing signal-processing methods for large-scale environmental monitoring.

Candidate Profile

Applicants should have:

  • A Master's degree or diploma in:
    • Electrical Engineering.
    • Geomatics Engineering.
    • Geophysics.
    • Physics.
    • Or a closely related discipline.

Required qualifications include:

  • Background in digital signal processing and/or image processing.
  • Strong analytical skills.
  • Programming experience in one or more of the following:Ability or willingness to develop signal-processing algorithms.
    • MATLAB.
    • Python.
    • C/C++.
    • Equivalent programming languages.
  • Excellent written and spoken English.
  • Interest in working within a multidisciplinary and international research environment.
  • A valid European Category B driver's license.

Preferred Qualifications

Experience in:

  • Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) data processing.
  • Array signal processing or related fields.

What ETH Zurich Offers

ETH Zurich offers:

  • The opportunity to conduct impactful research at one of the world's leading universities.
  • Strong support for professional development.
  • Public transportation season ticket benefits.
  • Car-sharing programs.
  • Access to a wide range of sports through ASVZ.
  • Childcare services.
  • Attractive pension benefits.

Diversity and Sustainability

ETH Zurich is committed to:

  • Equality of opportunity.
  • Diversity and inclusion.
  • Respecting the rights and dignity of all staff and students.
  • Providing an open and supportive working and learning environment.
  • Promoting sustainability and working toward a climate-neutral future.

Application Documents

Applicants should submit the following documents through the online application portal:

  • Cover letter describing motivation and research experience.
  • Full Curriculum Vitae (CV).
  • Academic transcripts or list of completed and ongoing courses, including grades.
  • Digital copy (PDF) of the Master's thesis.
  • Names and contact details of two referees.

Application Process

Applications must be submitted exclusively through the ETH Zurich online application portal.

Applications submitted by email or postal mail will not be considered.

For additional information about the Chair of Earth Observation and Remote Sensing, applicants are encouraged to visit the group's website.

Questions regarding the position may be directed to:

Prof. Irena Hajnsek

Email: hajnsek@ifu.baug.ethz.ch

(No applications via email.)

About ETH Zurich

ETH Zurich is one of the world's leading universities specializing in science and technology. The university is internationally recognized for:

  • Excellence in education.
  • Cutting-edge fundamental research.
  • Direct transfer of scientific knowledge into society.

More than 30,000 students and staff from over 120 countries study and work at ETH Zurich, creating an international environment that encourages independent thinking, innovation, and scientific excellence while addressing global challenges through research and collaboration.

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