Stage postdoctoral sur la neige et les eaux souterraines (Suisse)
Postdoc Position "Snow & Groundwater"
Snow-influenced water resources in alpine areas are particularly vulnerable to climate change. Increasing air temperatures lead to earlier snow melt and can potentially decrease water availability during summer. However, little is known yet on how groundwater storage might modify the catchment response. The main objective of the project is to investigate how groundwater storage influences (i) the discharge regime of Alpine catchments and (ii) the catchment response to increasing air temperature and changing precipitation. The project relies on detailed process analysis and modeling of two Alpine research catchments, combined with water-balance calculations for a wider range of catchments with contrasting hydrogeological properties. Some complementary field work in the research catchments is planned as well.
The successful candidate will collaborate with hydrogeologists from University of Neuchâtel (Prof. P. Brunner and D. Hunkeler), hydrologists from University of Lausanne (Prof. B. Schäfli) and snow specialists from the Institute for Snow and Avalance Research (Dr. T. Jonas). The project is funded by the Swiss Environmental Agencies and the project outcome will influence monitoring and climate adaptation strategies in Switzerland.
Required qualifications
The successful candidate is expected to have a PhD in hydrogeology or hydrology with a strong background in the application of conceptual or physically-based modeling approaches. Experience in hydrogeology/hydrology of mountainous catchments and/or snow hydrology is an advantage.
Duration
The position is available for a period of up to 3 years. The starting date is on September 1st or upon agreement.
Additional information and application
Additional information about the position can be obtained from Prof. D. Hunkeler (application.chyn@unine.ch; +41 32 718 25 60). Applications should include a concise statement describing your motivation to work on this project, copies of your academic qualifications and names of two referees. The application should be submitted to application.chyn@unine.ch.
