PhD Position (1 of 3) in Earthquake Seismology and Hydromechanics 100%, Zurich, fixed-term
ETH Zürich
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PhD Position (1 of 3) in Earthquake Seismology and Hydromechanics
100%, Zurich, fixed-term
print Drucken
The Institute of Geophysics at the Department of Earth and Planetary Sciences of ETH Zurich has three open positions
for full-time (100%) PhD students in earthquake seismology and hydromechanics. This is the advertisement for PhD #1,
which focusses on the seismicity of complex fault zones.
Project background
The Bedretto Underground Laboratory for Geosciences and Geoenergies ("BedrettoLab") is a unique research facility of
ETH Zurich that allows studying earthquake physics, hydromechanics and deep geothermal energy under in-situ conditions.
In the context of a global flagship project in earthquake seismology - the Fault Activation and Earthquake Rupture
(FEAR) project - we are working to induce and study earthquakes with magnitudes of ~1.0 on a natural Alpine fault zone.
The BedrettoLab provides direct access to the target fault zone at a depth of ~1km, such that we can place monitoring
equipment directly on and around the fault zone. Because of this direct access, we can potentially observe, model and
understand earthquake dynamic and hydromechanic processes in exceptional detail.
The target fault zone has been extensively characterised with a wide range of geophysical and geological methods. The
detailed knowledge of in-situ fault zone properties allows us to study the intricate relations between these properties
and fault zone behaviour, in terms of seismicity, hydromechanics, and earthquake dynamics. In this context, we are
looking for three highly motivated candidates to embark on a PhD on the inter-connected topics of i) Seismicity of a
complex fault zone (PhD #1); ii) Hydromechanics of a complex fault zone (PhD #2); and iii) Rupture dynamics of a
complex fault zone (PhD #3). This is the description for PhD #1. You will find an equivalent advertisement for the
other two positions on the same platform.
The 3 successful PhD candidates will join the Bedretto Team, a large, international team of scientists, who together
strive to advance our understanding of fault zone processes and earthquake physics. The PhD programs will focus on data
from the major upcoming experiments of the FEAR project, planned between November 2024 and December 2026.
Job description
This PhD project (#1) focuses on the relation between seismicity and fault network architecture. The target fault zone
of the FEAR project is exceptionally well constrained, by different types of data sets, including active seismic
campaigns, borehole analyses and very high sensitivity seismicity catalogues. This extensive data coverage presents a
unique opportunity to study how seismicity reflects fault zone properties, and - in turn - how fault zone properties
affect seismicity patterns.
To what extent does fault zone structure affect or even dominate the spatial distribution of hypocentres and focal
mechanisms? How does the relative abundance of on- and off-fault seismicity vary in space (across the fault network)
and in time (before and after larger ruptures)? What precursory patterns precede larger events, and how do they relate
to the fault network? Can we anticipate which fault segments are most likely to rupture in a fault activation
experiment, given the segments' orientation, size and macroscopic roughness? To what extent may fault network structure
limit the growth of quakes beyond a maximum magnitude?
The successful candidate will focus on these and similar questions, using the exceptional data sets from the upcoming
major FEAR experiments. The candidate will expand existing fault network reconstruction algorithms, using supervised
and unsupervised deep learning methods. The algorithms will be designed to use seismicity along with the full range of
complementary input data (e.g. strain, borehole and geologic observations), to infer a detailed 3D discrete fracture
network model of the target fault zone of the FEAR project. They will use the inferred 3D model to study how fault
network properties affect seismicity and earthquake source characteristics. In this process, they will interact closely
with PhD #2, to study the relation between seismicity and fault zone hydromechanics, and with PhD #3, to study the
relation between seismicity and rupture dynamics of the larger ruptures. The research of all three PhDs may have
important consequences for our understanding of earthquake physics, earthquake hazard, and the safe generation of deep
geothermal energy.
Profile
We are looking for an enthusiastic and ambitious young scientist with a knack for quantitative problem solving,
coding, and for working with large data sets. The position requires a Masters' degree in Earth Sciences, Physics,
Applied Mathematics, Engineering or a related discipline. You should have an interest in developing outstanding data
processing, analysis and modelling skills in common scientific languages such as Python or Matlab. Importantly, working
in an underground laboratory means working in a team. The position requires excellent teamwork abilities and
communication skills, including good spoken and written English skills. You will be expected to develop and implement
an independent research agenda, to publish papers in high-level peer reviewed journals, participate in international
conferences, and to perform basic teaching assistant duties.
Workplace
Workplace
We offer
This project is embedded in an exciting research environment, with a large, diverse and interdisciplinary research
team. ETH Zurich offers one of the best earth science and geophysics programs worldwide, and has generally excellent
resources in terms of mentoring and infrastructure. The city of Zurich is widely known for its high standard of living,
close proximity to the Swiss Alps and central location within western Europe. The salary and general working conditions
are internationally highly competitive and according to ETH standards. The working language is English. Please check
out the AVETH survival guide to find more information on a doctorate at ETH Zurich.
chevron_right Working, teaching and research at ETH Zurich
We value diversity
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.
The application window is open and will remain open until the position is filled. The position is available with a
flexible start date, as soon as possible, starting from March 2025. We look forward to receiving your online
application with the following documents prepared in English (please make sure your last name is on all documents, and
in all file names):
- A Motivation and Research Interest Statement (max. 3 pages)
- A full CV, including references
- An academic transcript / list of courses completed, including grades (please upload a single PDF)
- The names and contact details of 2 referees who may be consulted at an advanced stage in the selection process
If you are interested in more than one of the 3 PhDs, please express your second priority and motivation in the
Motivation and Research Interest Statement.
Please note that we exclusively accept applications submitted through our online application portal. Applications via
email or postal services will not be considered. Questions regarding the position should be directed to Dr. Men-Andrin
Meier or Prof. Stefan Wiemer by E-Mail ( no applications ): menandrin.meier@eaps.ethz.ch / stefan.wiemer@sed.ethz.ch.
About ETH Zürich
ETH Zurich is one of the world’s leading universities specialising 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.
About ETH Zürich
ETH Zurich is one of the world’s leading universities specialising 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.
100%, Zurich, fixed-term
print Drucken
The Institute of Geophysics at the Department of Earth and Planetary Sciences of ETH Zurich has three open positions
for full-time (100%) PhD students in earthquake seismology and hydromechanics. This is the advertisement for PhD #1,
which focusses on the seismicity of complex fault zones.
Project background
The Bedretto Underground Laboratory for Geosciences and Geoenergies ("BedrettoLab") is a unique research facility of
ETH Zurich that allows studying earthquake physics, hydromechanics and deep geothermal energy under in-situ conditions.
In the context of a global flagship project in earthquake seismology - the Fault Activation and Earthquake Rupture
(FEAR) project - we are working to induce and study earthquakes with magnitudes of ~1.0 on a natural Alpine fault zone.
The BedrettoLab provides direct access to the target fault zone at a depth of ~1km, such that we can place monitoring
equipment directly on and around the fault zone. Because of this direct access, we can potentially observe, model and
understand earthquake dynamic and hydromechanic processes in exceptional detail.
The target fault zone has been extensively characterised with a wide range of geophysical and geological methods. The
detailed knowledge of in-situ fault zone properties allows us to study the intricate relations between these properties
and fault zone behaviour, in terms of seismicity, hydromechanics, and earthquake dynamics. In this context, we are
looking for three highly motivated candidates to embark on a PhD on the inter-connected topics of i) Seismicity of a
complex fault zone (PhD #1); ii) Hydromechanics of a complex fault zone (PhD #2); and iii) Rupture dynamics of a
complex fault zone (PhD #3). This is the description for PhD #1. You will find an equivalent advertisement for the
other two positions on the same platform.
The 3 successful PhD candidates will join the Bedretto Team, a large, international team of scientists, who together
strive to advance our understanding of fault zone processes and earthquake physics. The PhD programs will focus on data
from the major upcoming experiments of the FEAR project, planned between November 2024 and December 2026.
Job description
This PhD project (#1) focuses on the relation between seismicity and fault network architecture. The target fault zone
of the FEAR project is exceptionally well constrained, by different types of data sets, including active seismic
campaigns, borehole analyses and very high sensitivity seismicity catalogues. This extensive data coverage presents a
unique opportunity to study how seismicity reflects fault zone properties, and - in turn - how fault zone properties
affect seismicity patterns.
To what extent does fault zone structure affect or even dominate the spatial distribution of hypocentres and focal
mechanisms? How does the relative abundance of on- and off-fault seismicity vary in space (across the fault network)
and in time (before and after larger ruptures)? What precursory patterns precede larger events, and how do they relate
to the fault network? Can we anticipate which fault segments are most likely to rupture in a fault activation
experiment, given the segments' orientation, size and macroscopic roughness? To what extent may fault network structure
limit the growth of quakes beyond a maximum magnitude?
The successful candidate will focus on these and similar questions, using the exceptional data sets from the upcoming
major FEAR experiments. The candidate will expand existing fault network reconstruction algorithms, using supervised
and unsupervised deep learning methods. The algorithms will be designed to use seismicity along with the full range of
complementary input data (e.g. strain, borehole and geologic observations), to infer a detailed 3D discrete fracture
network model of the target fault zone of the FEAR project. They will use the inferred 3D model to study how fault
network properties affect seismicity and earthquake source characteristics. In this process, they will interact closely
with PhD #2, to study the relation between seismicity and fault zone hydromechanics, and with PhD #3, to study the
relation between seismicity and rupture dynamics of the larger ruptures. The research of all three PhDs may have
important consequences for our understanding of earthquake physics, earthquake hazard, and the safe generation of deep
geothermal energy.
Profile
We are looking for an enthusiastic and ambitious young scientist with a knack for quantitative problem solving,
coding, and for working with large data sets. The position requires a Masters' degree in Earth Sciences, Physics,
Applied Mathematics, Engineering or a related discipline. You should have an interest in developing outstanding data
processing, analysis and modelling skills in common scientific languages such as Python or Matlab. Importantly, working
in an underground laboratory means working in a team. The position requires excellent teamwork abilities and
communication skills, including good spoken and written English skills. You will be expected to develop and implement
an independent research agenda, to publish papers in high-level peer reviewed journals, participate in international
conferences, and to perform basic teaching assistant duties.
Workplace
Workplace
We offer
This project is embedded in an exciting research environment, with a large, diverse and interdisciplinary research
team. ETH Zurich offers one of the best earth science and geophysics programs worldwide, and has generally excellent
resources in terms of mentoring and infrastructure. The city of Zurich is widely known for its high standard of living,
close proximity to the Swiss Alps and central location within western Europe. The salary and general working conditions
are internationally highly competitive and according to ETH standards. The working language is English. Please check
out the AVETH survival guide to find more information on a doctorate at ETH Zurich.
chevron_right Working, teaching and research at ETH Zurich
We value diversity
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.
The application window is open and will remain open until the position is filled. The position is available with a
flexible start date, as soon as possible, starting from March 2025. We look forward to receiving your online
application with the following documents prepared in English (please make sure your last name is on all documents, and
in all file names):
- A Motivation and Research Interest Statement (max. 3 pages)
- A full CV, including references
- An academic transcript / list of courses completed, including grades (please upload a single PDF)
- The names and contact details of 2 referees who may be consulted at an advanced stage in the selection process
If you are interested in more than one of the 3 PhDs, please express your second priority and motivation in the
Motivation and Research Interest Statement.
Please note that we exclusively accept applications submitted through our online application portal. Applications via
email or postal services will not be considered. Questions regarding the position should be directed to Dr. Men-Andrin
Meier or Prof. Stefan Wiemer by E-Mail ( no applications ): menandrin.meier@eaps.ethz.ch / stefan.wiemer@sed.ethz.ch.
About ETH Zürich
ETH Zurich is one of the world’s leading universities specialising 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.
About ETH Zürich
ETH Zurich is one of the world’s leading universities specialising 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.