Empa is the research institute for materials science and technology of the ETH Domain and conducts cutting-edge research for the benefit of industry and the well-being of society.
The Laboratory for Air Pollution / Environmental Technology has an opening for a
The project is aimed at the further development and intensive field application of a high-precision, miniaturized mid-IR spectrometer based on quantum cascade lasers (QCLs) for water vapor measurements in the upper atmosphere (UTLS) aboard meteorological balloons. The final goal is to establish this technique as an alternative to cryogenic frost point hygrometry. The activities are supported by GCOS and involve intense collaboration with MeteoSwiss, METAS and the GRUAN station in Lindenberg.
The project forsees multiple atmospheric flights up to the stratosphere and consecutive data analysis and interpretation. Participation at international intercomparison campaign is also planed.
Job description, responsibilities and tasks
Further development of a prototype mid-IR laser spectrometer for balloon flights
Validation, calibration, and intercomparison of the instrument
Coordination and realization of field campaigns in Payerne (CH) and Lindenberg (DE)
Communication of the results in peer-reviewed journals and at international conferences
Required skills
PhD in physics or a related discipline
Solid background in optics, laser spectroscopy, and electronics
Experience in experimental research and field campaigns
The ability to conduct independent scientific work
Programming skills (eg. Python, LabView, Matlab)
Fluency in English is required; oral expression skills in German are desirable
The position is available from September 2020 and will remain open until filled. Applications received before 31 July 2020 receive full consideration.