Switzerland : PhD position in laser based ambient air analysis

Empa is the interdisciplinary research and services institution for material sciences and technology development within the ETH Domain.

The Laboratory for Air Pollution and Environmental Technology studies processes at the technosphere-atmosphere interface as a contribution to a healthy and safe environment. Based on state-of-the art measurement techniques and modeling tools we develop technological solutions and provide scenarios for economical and political decision makers.
For our SNF project on the analysis of methane isotopic species we offer a

PhD position in laser based ambient air analysis

Methane (CH4) is the second most important of the anthropogenically influenced greenhouse gases. Since the major sources and sinks have distinct isotopic signatures, selective measurements of the stable isotopologues improve the constrains for emission sources and the global budget. This can be achieved using laser based absorption spectroscopy in the mid-infrared, which distinguishes between all relevant CH4 isotopic species because of their characteristic rotational-vibrational transitions.

You will adapt a laser spectrometer to continuously monitor 13C-CH4 and D-CH4, based on state of the art quantum cascade lasers. To obtain the necessary precision at ambient concentrations, this also implies the development and validation of an automated preconcentration unit.

The ideal candidate is a communicative scientist with a profound background in physics and/or chemistry. He/she has experience in gas analysis or laser spectroscopy and a strong interest in mechanics and electronics for the design of analytical instruments.

The instrumental development will take place at Empa in Duebendorf, in close collaboration with Prof. H. Fischer of the Climate and Environmental Physics department of the University of Bern. For further information visit our homepages (www.empa.ch/abt134; www.climate.unibe.ch) or contact Dr. Lukas Emmenegger, phone +41 58 765 46 99, email: lukas.emmenegger@empa.ch

We are looking forward to your application including CV, your research interest, a list of publications and the names of two academic referees. Application received before June 25, 2011 will receive full consideration. The position will remain open until filled.

Further Information

Application Deadline : 25 June 2011

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Posted on 2011-06-01 11:48:39

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