PhD in Wildflower Phenology

ETH Zurich seeks a PhD candidate to study Alpine wildflower phenology and plant-pollinator dynamics, using field observations, phenocams, and data analysis techniques including deep learning. The position is fully funded, based in Zürich, and requires field experience, ecological knowledge, and advanced English skills.

This PhD role focuses on understanding how Alpine flowering communities change across space and time, and how these shifts affect plant-pollinator interactions. The research aims to explore the impacts of climate change on flowering timing and species overlap, using modern tools to analyze ecological networks at fine spatial and temporal scales.

Responsibilities

• Carry out fieldwork to measure flowering phenology using phenocams and track plant-pollinator interactions across seasons and elevation levels.
• Design and run experiments to assess how changes in flowering timing influence pollinator visits and plant reproductive success.
• Analyze data to quantify phenology and interaction networks, applying deep learning for flower identification and temporal network methods.
• Develop independent research ideas within the project’s scope.
• Participate in departmental and university activities such as teaching, outreach, and lab work.

Requirements

• Strong interest in the research project.
• Ecological background in phenology, plant-pollinator interactions, or climate change impacts.
• Experience in statistical modeling or deep learning techniques.
• Ability to identify plants and pollinators.
• Capacity to work both independently and in a team.
• Commitment to a respectful and inclusive work environment.
• Fieldwork experience and a valid driver’s license.
• Advanced proficiency in English, both spoken and written.

What the company offers

• The PhD position is fully funded.
• Full-time employment for four years.
• A competitive annual salary according to ETH Zurich regulations.
• Collaboration opportunities with leading research groups at ETH Zürich, University of Zürich, WSL, and EAWAG.
• The position is based in Zurich, Switzerland.

About the company

The Plant Ecology Group at ETH Zurich conducts research on plant community ecology, including Alpine wildflower phenology and forest regeneration. The group runs long-term monitoring studies in Alpine and forest sites in Switzerland and the USA, and is dedicated to inclusive, collaborative science.

• Research focus on plant community ecology, including Alpine phenology and forest regeneration.
• Long-term ecological monitoring in Alpine and forest sites in Switzerland and the USA.
• Commitment to diversity and inclusivity in all group activities.
• Open and collaborative scientific approach.