Student Research Assistant - Development and assembly of instruments for atmospheric research

ETH Zürich • Vollzeit • Zürich • vor 2Tg

The Atmospheric Physics group at ETH Zurich is looking for a Student Research Assistant to support the development and assembly of instruments used during field campaigns. Our research group studies the crucial role of clouds and aerosols in the climate system, aiming to better understand how cloud microphysical processes drive both precipitation formation and the radiative impact of clouds.

Project background

This role directly supports our research efforts by building the instruments we deploy in the field. The primary instrument is a custom holographic imager developed within our group. It uses in-line open-path holography to capture 2D images of cloud particles in a well-defined volume. With this we can reconstruct the position, shape, and size of cloud droplets as small as 5.5 µm and ice crystals up to several millimeters. Our latest development is a lightweight version named HOLIMOAir. With two units already completed, the plan is to build an additional 2-3 units by the end of the year. This includes making adaptations to ensure they are suitable for wind tunnel measurements and deployment in the Antarctic.

Job description

Building further HOLIMOAir units and develop upgrades for other instrumentation
Mechanical assembly of instrument housing and optical components
Soldering of cable assemblies and PCBs, testing of electronics
Upgrading of sofware running on instrumentation
Support instrument integration, calibration, and field campaign preparation
Assist with maintenance and basic documentation

Profile

Enrolled student at ETH Zurich or another Swiss university
Background or strong interest in mechatronics, optics, electronics with hands-on experience
Manual dexterity and careful working style, workshop and/or electronics experience is a plus
Basic python programming skills, linux command line experience a plus
Interest in experimental or field-based research

We offer

Direct involvement in cutting-edge atmospheric research
Flexible working hours (10-15 h/week during semester, possibility for more during breaks)
Standard ETH student assistant salary
Opportunity for a long-term engagement (≥1 year)

> Working, teaching and research at ETH Zurich

We value diversity and sustainability
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. Sustainability is a core value for us - we are consistently working towards a climate-neutral future.

Curious? So are we.

We look forward to receiving your online application, including the following documents:

A short motivation letter (max. 1 page) highlighting your relevant experience and interest in the position
Your current Curriculum Vitae (CV)

Review of applications will start May 8th and continue until the position is filled. The preferred start date is as soon as possible.

For any questions related to the project or this position, please contact Dr. Jan Henneberger (jan.henneberger@env.ethz.ch).