The 4-year PhD in cryogenic carbonate mineralization and carbon dioxide fluxes investigates how the process of freezing affects carbon sequestration and liberation. This PhD research is offered by the Geomitigation of Greenhouse Gases Laboratory in the Department of Earth and Planetary Sciences. This PhD research lies at the crossroads of experimental geochemistry, cryospheric studies, and planetary science.
This position starts in January 2027, and applications will close on 31st August 2026.
Why PhD in Cryogenic Carbonate
While most carbon cycle models are concerned with temperate or high-temperature systems, cold systems, such as glaciers, permafrost, and sea ice, have an important and underestimated role in the global CO₂ cycle.
The freezing of water is a much more complicated phenomenon than just turning it to ice: there is a rearrangement of solutes and ion concentration, which creates microhabitats for unusual chemical reactions, resulting either in carbon sequestration or its release back to the atmosphere.
Knowledge of this process is necessary to:
- Improve climate models
- Make predictions of carbon flows in polar and alpine areas
- Evaluate feedbacks in a warming world
This PhD will address this issue through studying process-driven geochemical changes in freezing conditions.
PhD in Cryogenic Carbonate Research Focus
The essence of this research is to examine how freezing affects the growth of carbonates and the flux of CO₂.
This entails:
- Creating frozen and unfrozen environments in the laboratory
- Investigating the formation of carbonates in frozen environments
- Determining when freezing favors carbon sequestration rather than emission
- Constructing kinetic models using time-dependent geochemical data
A notable part of this study is that freezing not only enhances mineral precipitation but also triggers gas emission, two opposing reactions that are not well-understood.
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What You Will Do
This is a very experimental PhD, which has high analytical and modeling content.
Responsibilities:
- Perform controlled cryogenic experiments with custom-built reactors
- Quantify chemistry of gases and liquids using methods like ICP-OES, HPIC, UV-Vis spectroscopy and gas analyzers
- Describe carbonate minerals using microscopes and mineralogical approaches
- Create kinetic models based on experimentally acquired data
- Publish scientific work in peer-reviewed journals and conference papers
You will also help create a new low-temperature geochemistry lab at ETH Zurich, a unique experience for a PhD.
PhD in Cryogenic Carbonate Ideal Candidate
The following role would suit individuals who are passionate about conducting experimental studies and studying complicated chemical reactions.
Requirements for the ideal candidate include the following:
- MSc in Geochemistry, Chemistry, Earth Sciences, or relevant field
- Passion for studying carbon cycling, mineral formation, or cryosphere
- Experience with experimental studies and analysis
- Quantitative skills
Experience with geochemical or reactive transport models is preferred but not essential.
Why ETH Zurich
ETH Zurich is one of the world’s leading institutions in science and engineering, and this thesis presents the following distinctive features:
- Access to a recently set up experimental facility for low-temperature geochemistry
- Mentorship by the principal investigator and senior scientists
- Highly collaborative and interdisciplinary working atmosphere
- Opportunity to present at international conferences, publish and build professional network
- Full sponsorship for 4 years with salary and other benefits of the institute
All these factors create a very advantageous PhD program.
Application Details
- Position: PhD in Cryogenic Carbonate Mineralization and CO₂ Fluxes
- Affiliation: ETH Zurich, Switzerland
- Duration: 4 years (fully funded)
- Starting Date: January 4, 2027
- Closing Date for Applications: August 31, 2026
Required Documents:
- Covering Letter (maximum 2 pages)
- CV (maximum 2 pages)
- Academic Transcripts
- Master’s Degree Certificate
- Names and contact details of two references
- Candidates will need to apply using the ETH Zurich website only.
Further information can be found through the following link: https://www.jobs.ethz.ch/job/view/11900
Strategic Insight
Looking at the topic more broadly, the research line is especially exciting due to the connection it makes between geochemistry and the latest trends in climate change mitigation methods.
Mineralization occurring at low temperatures could find application in:
- Carbon capture at low temperatures
- Material synthesis in cryogenic conditions
- Planetary surface chemistry (Mars or icy moons)
PhD students with background in materials science or electrochemistry will have an opportunity to explore fundamentals of carbon chemistry.
Final Thoughts
This is not your average geochemistry PhD program. It addresses a specific yet highly growing field with many consequences in relation to climate science and carbon cycling.
If you are intrigued by extreme conditions, phase changes, and carbon behavior, then the ETH Zurich PhD program should definitely appeal to you.
Start your application early, especially considering how highly competitive these fully funded PhD programs are at ETH Zurich.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is this PhD position fully funded?
Yes, it is an entirely funded 4-year PhD position at ETH Zurich, which includes a salary and regular doctoral perks.
When is the application deadline?
Applications should be submitted by August 31, 2026.
When does the PhD program start?
The starting date is estimated for January 4, 2027.
What academic background is required?
A Master of Science degree in geochemistry, Earth sciences, environmental chemistry, chemistry, or a relevant subject area is required.
Do I need prior experience in cryosphere or low-temperature research?
No, not necessarily. Even if helpful, passion for geochemistry, carbon cycle, or any sort of lab work is usually enough.
What kind of research will I be doing?
You will perform freeze experiments in order to investigate the formation of carbonate minerals and CO₂ exchange at low temperatures, for example, on glaciers and permafrost.
What laboratory techniques are involved in this PhD?
The project involves various methods like ICP-OES, HPIC, UV-visible spectroscopy, gas analysis, and mineral analysis methods.
Is modeling experience required?
Knowledge of geochemical modeling or reactive transport modeling will be an advantage, but not required.
Where is PhD in cryogenic carbonate-based?
The PhD position will take place at ETH Zurich, Switzerland.
What makes PhD in cryogenic carbonate unique?
The current project centers on the under-researched aspect of freezing in carbon turnover and provides the opportunity to use the recently established low-temperature geochemistry lab facility.
How competitive is PhD in cryogenic carbonate position?
Fully funded PhD positions at ETH Zurich are very competitive. Therefore, a good academic record and research motivation are key.
How do I apply for PhD in cryogenic carbonate?
All applications should be submitted via the ETH Zurich online application system. Email applications will not be considered.
What documents are required for the application for PhD in Cryogenic Carbonate?
A letter of motivation, CV, academic records, Master’s diploma, and two letters of recommendation are required.
ExoWatts
Great content! Keep up the good work!