Researchers interested in snow science, climate monitoring, cryosphere research, and innovative environmental technologies are invited to apply for a PhD student position at the WSL Institute for Snow and Avalanche Research SLF in Davos, Switzerland. This doctoral opportunity focuses on developing and validating advanced sensor technology for measuring Snow Water Equivalent (SWE) in alpine environments. The project combines snow science, particle detector technology, field experimentation, and large-scale environmental data analysis. The successful candidate will contribute to a pioneering research project funded by the Swiss National Competence Center Muoniverse, working at the intersection of cryosphere science and innovative sensor development.

About WSL Institute for Snow and Avalanche Research SLF

The WSL Institute for Snow and Avalanche Research SLF is part of the Swiss Federal Institute for Forest, Snow and Landscape Research WSL and belongs to the ETH Domain, one of Switzerland’s leading research networks. WSL focuses on sustainable environmental management, ecosystem protection, and understanding natural hazards. The institute employs approximately 600 researchers and professionals, including around 180 specialists based at SLF in Davos. SLF is internationally recognized for research on snow, avalanches, mountain environments, and climate-related changes affecting alpine regions.

Research Area: Snow, Atmosphere and Cryosphere Monitoring

The PhD position is located within the Research Unit Snow and Atmosphere, which studies the physical properties of snow and its interactions with the soil and atmosphere. The Snow Processes Group investigates important scientific questions related to:

• Snow formation and accumulation.
• Snow transport processes.
• Snowfall precipitation.
• Snowpack evolution.
• Water storage in mountain environments.

The PhD project contributes to improving measurements of Snow Water Equivalent (SWE), a critical indicator of the amount of water stored within snowpacks and an essential parameter for hydrology, climate research, and water resource management.

PhD Research Project: Innovative Muon Sensors for Snow Water Equivalent Measurement

The doctoral researcher will work on a project supported by the Swiss National Competence Center Muoniverse. Muoniverse aims to advance muon science and explore applications across multiple fields, including:

• Particle physics.
• Quantum materials.
• Energy research.
• Cultural heritage studies.
• Environmental monitoring.

The project involves collaboration with the Paul Scherrer Institute (PSI) to test, validate, and deploy advanced DMAPS muon sensors for measuring snow water equivalent in alpine environments.

Main Research Responsibilities

The PhD candidate will be responsible for:

Sensor Validation and Field Testing

The research will begin at the Weissfluhjoch test site, where the candidate will:

• Validate muon sensor measurements against existing snow monitoring methods.
• Compare sensor results with automated and manual measurements.
• Use established techniques including:
  • Snow scale measurements.
  • Snow profiles.
  • Snow Micro Penetrometer (SMP) observations.

High-Resolution Snow Monitoring

The researcher will conduct frequent manual sampling during important snow events to capture short-term changes in snowpack conditions.

Alpine Sensor Deployment

After successful validation, multiple sensors will be deployed to:

• Study small-scale variations in Snow Water Equivalent.
• Investigate snow redistribution processes.
• Analyze snow mass gain and loss events.
• Monitor complex alpine terrain, including ridges and heterogeneous landscapes.

The project will create unique datasets that improve understanding of snowpack dynamics and advance future cryosphere monitoring technologies.

Eligibility Criteria

Applicants should have a strong academic background and interest in experimental environmental research.

Required Qualifications

Candidates should have:

• A Master’s degree in science, engineering, or a related discipline.
• Experience with experimental research, data analysis, or field measurements.
• Strong programming skills, preferably using Python.
• Ability to process and analyze large datasets.

Preferred Background

Additional experience in the following areas is advantageous:

• Snow hydrology.
• Cryosphere monitoring.
• Environmental sensor development.
• Particle physics instrumentation.

Skills and Personal Requirements

Successful applicants should demonstrate:

• Independence and strong problem-solving abilities.
• Ability to work in challenging alpine environments.
• Willingness to participate in winter field campaigns.
• Strong organizational skills.
• Ability to collaborate within an interdisciplinary research team.

Language requirements:

• Fluency in written and spoken English is required.
• Knowledge of German is beneficial but not mandatory.

Why Join This PhD Research Opportunity?

This doctoral position offers a unique opportunity to work on emerging technology for climate and environmental monitoring.

The research combines:

• Advanced sensor engineering.
• Snow and climate science.
• Alpine field research.
• Data-driven environmental analysis.

The project provides valuable experience for researchers interested in careers in cryosphere science, environmental technology, climate research, and interdisciplinary scientific innovation.

Application Process

Applicants must submit a complete application by uploading the required documents through APPLY NOW. Applications submitted by email will not be considered. For questions or additional information, contact: Clemens Güdel
Human Resources SLF, Scientific Contact: Dr. Mathias Bavay Phone: +41 (0)81 417 02 65 WSL is committed to diversity, equal opportunity, and inclusion. The institute actively promotes gender equality and supports an open, respectful, and inclusive working environment.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. What is the WSL SLF PhD position about?

This PhD position focuses on developing and testing innovative muon-based sensors for measuring Snow Water Equivalent (SWE) in alpine environments.

2. Where is the PhD position located?

The position is based at the WSL Institute for Snow and Avalanche Research SLF in Davos, Switzerland.

3. What is Snow Water Equivalent (SWE)?

Snow Water Equivalent represents the amount of water contained within a snowpack if all snow were melted. It is an important measurement for hydrology, climate studies, and water resource management.

4. Who can apply for this PhD opportunity?

Applicants with a Master’s degree in science, engineering, or a related field are encouraged to apply, especially those with experience in experimental research and data analysis.

5. Is programming experience required?

Yes. Applicants should have experience with a high-level programming language such as Python and be comfortable handling large datasets.

6. Does the project involve outdoor fieldwork?

Yes. The research includes alpine field campaigns, winter measurements, and sensor deployment in mountain environments.

7. What technologies will be used in the research?

The project involves DMAPS muon sensors developed with the Paul Scherrer Institute and combines sensor technology with snow measurement techniques.

8. Is German language knowledge necessary?

English proficiency is required. German language skills are considered beneficial but are not essential.

9. What research fields does this PhD support?

The project connects several disciplines, including snow science, cryosphere monitoring, environmental engineering, particle physics applications, and climate research.

10. How do I apply for the position?

Applicants must submit their complete application through the official SLF online application system. Email applications will not be accepted.