Postdoc (or PhD) position in Experimental Geochemistry
The Experimental Planetology Group of the Department of Earth and Planetary Sciences (D-EAPS) invites applications for a 2-yr post-doctoral position on the experimental determination of liquid iron alloy densities with application to the lunar core and those of other planetary bodies. In exceptional cases, PhD applications will be considered.
Project background
The origin of the Moon, our nearest planetary neighbour, remains an enigma. On the one hand, the isotopic composition of the Moon is indistinguishable from that of the Earth, yet chemically it appears very different. A major obstacle in our understanding of the internal constitution of the Moon is the lack of direct geophysical information on the nature of its core. Determination of the density of iron-rich alloys is therefore essential in constraining the composition of the Moon’s core, and, in turn, its mantle, thereby permitting assessment of its relationship to the Earth.
The successful candidate will perform experiments in our new aerodynamic laser-heated levitation furnace in order to determine the densities of a range of liquid iron-rich alloys in-situ at the high temperatures relevant to the lunar core, together with Prof. Paolo Sossi and Dr. Guillaume Morard. The candidate will work together with Dr. Amir Khan and colleagues at the Institute of Geophysics (D-EAPS) to integrate experimentally derived densities into new geophysical inversions of the interior structure of the Moon.
Profile
* Prospective applicants should hold a doctorate in the broad domain of the Earth & planetary sciences with a specialization in high temperature geochemistry, planetary geophysics, mineral physics, experimental petrology, or related disciplines.
* The successful candidate is expected to fulfill some laboratory and/or teaching duties.
* Remuneration will conform to the internal rate set by ETH Zürich, starting at 92'500 CHF per annum for post-doctoral fellows, or 52'500 CHF per annum for PhD students.
Workplace
We offer a friendly, dynamic, and interdisciplinary environment at ETH and the Sorbonne University of Paris at the forefront of experimental and theoretical work, with wide perspectives in the planetary sciences across the Department of Physics and the Center for the Origin and Prevalence of Life. ETH Zurich is ranked first in the world for Earth Sciences, a product of the cutting-edge research performed within D-EAPS.
In line with our values, ETH Zurich encourages an inclusive culture. We promote equality of opportunity, value diversity, and nurture a working and learning environment in which the rights and dignity of all our staff and students are respected. Visit our Equal Opportunities and Diversity website to find out how we ensure a fair and open environment that allows everyone to grow and flourish.
Curious? So are we.
We look forward to receiving your application in the form of:
* CV including names of two referees
* 1-page statement of motivation
Please note that we exclusively accept applications submitted through our online application portal. Applications via email or postal services will not be considered. The deadline for applications is the 5th of February 2025, ideally with a start date of 1st of April 2025. Further information about our group can be found on our website. Any other inquiries should be addressed to Prof. Paolo Sossi, paolo.sossi [at] eaps.ethz.ch (no applications).
ETH Zurich is one of the world’s leading universities specializing in science and technology. We are renowned for our excellent education, cutting-edge fundamental research, and direct transfer of new knowledge into society. Over 30,000 people from more than 120 countries find our university to be a place that promotes independent thinking and an environment that inspires excellence. Located in the heart of Europe, yet forging connections all over the world, we work together to develop solutions for the global challenges of today and tomorrow.
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