Postdoctoral Researcher – Earthquake Early Warning (EEW) and Software Development

100%, Zurich, fixed-term

The Swiss Seismological Service (SED) at ETH Zurich is a global leader in geoscientific research. The Real-Time Seismology group at the SED focuses on the development of cutting-edge technologies and methods for seismic risk mitigation that improve the rapid detection and characterization of earthquakes, forecasts of seismic ground motions, and alerting. Our Earthquake Early Warning (EEW) efforts are focused on developing and enhancing algorithms (Virtual Seismologist VS, FinDer), optimizing seismic networks, distributing low-latency alerts, and conducting societal studies. Our group developed and managed the ETHZ-SED SeisComP EEW (ESE) addons. Algorithms and software developed by our group are providing public EEW alerts in the United States via ShakeAlert and across Central America.

Project background

We are seeking a highly motivated Postdoctoral Researcher with strong programming skills to support and expand our EEW software infrastructure. This position offers a unique opportunity to contribute to the next generation of EEW algorithms, enhance the ESE system, and collaborate with international partners on research that directly impacts earthquake mitigation strategies globally. The candidate will join a dynamic and diverse team at the SED, which brings broad expertise in key areas, such as seismic monitoring, real-time seismology, Machine Learning (ML) and Distributed Acoustic Sensing (DAS). The candidate will have the opportunity to advance scientific findings into operational software. The position is initially for 2 years, with the possibility of extension.

Job description

Key Responsibilities:

• EEW Algorithm Development (50%): Research and Development of innovative EEW algorithms, such as developing algorithms for novel instrumentation, such as DAS and High-Rate GNSS; leveraging ML techniques; advancing finite fault modeling to improve earthquake source characterization in large events.
• Software Development (30%): Maintain and optimize existing EEW software solutions developed within our group.
• Towards Public EEW in Switzerland (10%): Contribute to the monitoring and optimization of ESE in Switzerland, including evaluating its performance under various seismic scenarios. Contribute to advancing ESE to provide public alerts in Switzerland in the future by collaborating with a select group of test users.
• Technical Support for external ESE Users (10%): Provide training, documentation and technical support to external users to ensure an effective utilization of ESE within their infrastructure.

Profile

Required Qualifications:

• A PhD in seismology, geophysics, computer science, or a related field.
• Strong programming skills (Python, C++, or similar languages) and experience with scientific software development.
• Familiarity with seismic data processing and real-time systems, preferentially with EEW and SeisComP.
• Strong background in seismological methods and data analysis.
• The working language of our group is English, though fluency in German or French would be regarded positively.

Desired Soft Skills:

• Ability to work effectively in a multidisciplinary, international team.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills for preparing technical reports, publishing research, and interacting with external partners.
• Proactive and creative approach to addressing complex scientific and engineering challenges.
• Ability to handle evolving research directions, complex data, and real-time processing requirements with a balance between scientific research, technical operation and software development.
• A strong desire to push the boundaries of seismic research and improve public safety through technology.

Workplace

Workplace

We offer

• Work in a dynamic, collaborative research environment at the forefront of earthquake monitoring and EEW.
• Opportunity to contribute to a global public safety initiative that has real-world impact, including the chance to collaborate with international partners.
• Access to cutting-edge tools, algorithms, and large high-quality seismic datasets.
• Competitive salary and benefits, including support for further academic development and training.

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.

We look forward to receiving your online application by 8th January 2025 with the following documents:

• Curriculum Vitae
• Motivation letter
• Relevant academic certificates

Please note that we exclusively accept applications submitted through our online application portal. Applications via email or postal services will not be considered.

For further information on the Swiss Seismological Service and the Real-Time Seismology group, visit our website.

Questions regarding the position may be directed to Dr. Maren Böse [mboese@sed.ethz.ch]. We look forward to receiving your application!