PhD student “Spatio-temporal avalanche forecasting” (f/m/d)
The WSL Institute for Snow and Avalanche Research SLF is part of the Swiss Federal Institute for Forest, Snow and Landscape Research WSL and thus of the ETH Domain. WSL focuses on the sustainable use and protection of the environment and on the handling of natural hazards. WSL employs approximately 600 people, of whom 180 work at SLF in Davos.
The Research Unit Snow Avalanches and Prevention investigates the formation and dynamics of avalanches and develops and operates prevention and early-warning systems for alpine natural hazards. We are seeking, as of 1 May 2026 or by agreement, within the SNF project “Towards high-resolution, intelligent, spatio-temporal avalanche forecasting”, a
The aim of the project is to develop methods that enable temporally and spatially higher-resolution, data-driven regional avalanche forecasts, and to investigate how different resolutions and forms of representation may influence the decision‑making behaviour of users.
You will develop and validate methods to represent machine‑learning‑based avalanche danger forecasts in greater spatial and temporal detail. You will present and publish your results at appropriate scientific venues. In addition, you will participate in the Graduate Program in Geography and Earth System Science at the University of Zurich and fulfil the associated requirements, including a contribution to teaching.
You hold a Master’s degree in environmental or geosciences or an equivalent natural‑science discipline. You possess strong analytical and statistical skills, have experience working with large datasets and reproducible workflows, and are proficient in programming languages such as R or Python. Knowledge of snow and avalanche processes as well as practical experience for safe work in winter terrain are an advantage. You have good organisational and communication skills and are fluent in spoken and written English and German.
The position is hosted in the Avalanche Warning Group at the WSL Institute for Snow and Avalanche Research SLF, with primary supervision by Dr. Frank Techel and enrolment at the University of Zurich (Prof. Dr. Ross Purves), in close collaboration with other research teams at SLF and the operational avalanche warning service.
Please send your complete application to Ivana Bohac, Human Resources SLF, by uploading the requested documents through our job portal. Applications via email will not be considered. Frank Techel, e-mail techel@slf.ch, will be happy to answer any questions or offer further information. WSL is committed to diversity and inclusion as core values. We actively promote gender equality and foster an open, inclusive work environment.
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