Eidg. Forschungsanstalt WSL · Davos Dorf
The Swiss Federal Institute for Forest, Snow and Landscape Research (WSL) seeks a PhD candidate to develop and validate innovative muon sensors for measuring Snow Water Equivalent in alpine regions.
This position is embedded within the Snow Processes group at the SLF research unit. The successful candidate will contribute to a project supported by the Swiss National Competence Center Muoniverse, which aims to expand the applications of muon science across various scientific domains, including energy research and cultural heritage preservation.
Responsibilities
- Partner with the Paul Scherrer Institute to test and install DMAPS muon sensors for assessing Snow Water Equivalent in mountainous areas.
- Compare sensor data against traditional automated and manual snow measurements, such as snow scales, profiles, and SMP, at the Weissfluhjoch test site.
- Perform frequent manual sampling during critical weather events to track temporal changes in snow conditions.
- Install several sensors to analyze small-scale variability in Snow Water Equivalent during mass redistribution events and in complex terrains like ridges.
- Create distinct datasets to improve the scientific understanding of snowpack dynamics.
Requirements
- Hold a Master’s degree in a scientific or engineering discipline.
- Demonstrate strong proficiency in a high-level programming language, particularly Python.
- Show capability in managing and processing large volumes of data.
- Exhibit strong problem-solving abilities and work independently.
- Be prepared to conduct fieldwork in alpine environments, including during winter campaigns.
- Communicate fluently in English, both written and spoken.
Nice to have
- Previous experience in experimental work, data analysis, and field measurements.
- Background in snow hydrology, cryosphere monitoring, or particle physics instrumentation.
- Knowledge of the German language.
About the company
The Swiss Federal Institute for Forest, Snow and Landscape Research (WSL) is dedicated to the sustainable use and protection of the environment, as well as the management of natural hazards. The organization upholds diversity and inclusion as core values, actively promoting gender equality and fostering an open, inclusive work environment.
- Commitment to the sustainable use and protection of the environment.
- Focus on handling natural hazards.
- Strong emphasis on diversity and inclusion.
- Active promotion of gender equality.
- Fostering an open and inclusive work environment.
How to apply
Documents to submit:
Application language: English
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