Eawag, the Swiss Federal Institute of Aquatic Science and Technology, is an internationally networked aquatic research institute within the ETH Domain (Swiss Federal Institutes of Technology). Eawag conducts research, education and expert consulting to achieve the dual goals of meeting direct human needs for water and maintaining the function and integrity of aquatic ecosystems.

PhD student (m/f/d) on inter-basin exchanges physical processes in lakes

The Department of Surface Waters – Research and Management (SURF) located in Kastanienbaum (Lucerne) has a vacancy for a

This research opportunity is an integral part of an exciting SNSF funded project aimed at advancing our understanding of lake dynamics and their ecological implications. Lakes have traditionally been analyzed using a one-dimensional vertical framework due to seasonal density stratification, but this approach is challenged by observations of lateral density-driven flows. These flows, particularly prevalent in multi-basin lakes, contribute to heat budgets, deep water oxygenation, and fine-scale vertical structures. Despite their importance, little has been quantified about their basin-scale relevance, a pressing issue given the documented reduction of winter mixing depth due to climate changes. This study aims to address such research gaps by integrating high-tech in-situ experiments with modeling techniques, focusing on understanding interbasin exchange rates, associated turbulent mixing, and the impact of winter exchanges on deep-water formation and ventilation. The multi-basin Lake Lucerne and Lake Zug are proposed as ideal natural laboratories for this project.

Application must be submitted by 1st January 2025

Eawag is

We look forward to receiving your application