EPFL, the Swiss Federal Institute of Technology in Lausanne, is one of the most dynamic university campuses in Europe and ranks among the top 20 universities worldwide. The EPFL employs more than 6,500 people supporting the three main missions of the institutions: education, research and innovation. The EPFL campus offers an exceptional working environment at the heart of a community of more than 18,500 people, including over 14,000 students and 4,000 researchers from more than 120 different countries.

Postdoc in atmospheric observations and analysis in polar environments

Mission

The Extreme Environments Research Laboratory ( EERL ) is looking for a postdoctoral researcher to conduct data analysis, laboratory and field experiments in polar regions. EERL is running several projects in the Arctic and Antarctic, including participation in large international endeavors such as Tara Polar Station and Antarctica InSync .

EERL’s research is based on a set of unique facilities. Specifically, we measure chemical composition and functional groups in aerosols with a new technology, nanoelectromechanical membranes paired with Fourier Transform Infra-Red spectroscopy, NEMS-FTIR. In addition, we operate the EERL Helikite, a tethered balloon facility to measure aerosol chemical and microphysical properties as well as cloud microphysics within the first kilometer of the atmospheres.

The successful candidate will be trained in the methods and is expected to take leadership in laboratory and field experiments, as well as data analysis from previous and upcoming campaigns.

EERL forms part of EPFL’s new Alpine and Polar Environmental Research Centre ( ALPOLE ) of EPFL on the campus in Sion.

Main duties and responsibilities

• Take responsibility for NEMS-FTIR analysis work.
• Perform field measurements with EERL’s facilities.
• Analysis and publication of field observation.
• General contribution to EERL’s activities.
• Write proposals as lead or collaborator for EERL.
• Participate in education, and PhD and master student supervision.
• Promote polar research and its impact to the public.

Profile

• PhD in atmospheric science or a related field.
• Experience in aerosol chemical measurements and analysis.
• Experience in field work with aerosol instruments.
• Experience in data analysis.
• Motivation to take up responsibilities within EERL.
• Carry out projects independently.
• Good interpersonal skills, team player.
• Good knowledge of English (written and spoken).
• Good programming skills will be an advantage.
• Experience with large data sets and satellite data is beneficial but not a prerequisit

We offer

• A dynamic, interdisciplinary and young research group.
• A vibrant, internationally visible and rising academic institution in alpine and polar environmental research.
• A great working atmosphere and ample opportunities for professional and personal development with access to many continuing education courses.

Informations

Only applications submitted through the online platform are considered. You are asked to supply:

• A motivation letter including your interests and qualifications (pdf, up to 2 pages)

And in one PDF:

• A CV and a publication list
• Contact details for 3 referees

For additional information, please contact Prof. Julia Schmale by e-mail: julia.schmale @ epfl.ch (No application send to this address shall be considered).

Contract Start Date : 04/01/2026

Activity Rate Min : 80.00

Activity Rate Max : 100.00