PhD in Wildflower Phenology

The chosen PhD student will be expected to work collaboratively with the Plant Ecology Group (at ETH Zürich) and an international team of collaborators to address this topic. Specifically, the PhD candidate will conduct:

Field work to quantify flowering phenology (using phenocams) and plant-pollinator interactions across the growing season and elevational gradients. Experiments to explore the implications of altered flowering phenology for pollinator visitation and plant reproductive fitness. Analyses to quantify flowering phenology and interaction networks to explore questions of interest, including the application of deep learning approaches (for automated identification of flowers) and temporal network analyses.

The PhD student will have the opportunity to develop their own ideas within this project, and will also be expected to contribute to group responsibilities within the department and university (e.g. teaching, outreach, lab activities), as is expected of all group members.

The Plant Ecology Group at ETH Zürich conducts research on a diversity of topics within the realm of plant community ecology, including the drivers of Alpine wildflower phenology, the factors that limit forest regeneration, and the role of climate and species interactions in influencing plant populations and communities. We conduct projects and maintain long-term monitoring studies in Alpine and forest field sites in and Switzerland and the USA (Washington State). We are committed to fostering diversity and inclusivity in all our activities, as well as to conducting open and collaborative science.

• Enthusiasm and interest in the project

• Relevant ecological knowledge (e.g. in phenology, plant-pollinator dynamics, and / or ecological impacts of climate change)

• Experience with statistical modelling and / or deep learning approaches

• Experience with identifying plants and identifying pollinators

• Ability to work independently and collaboratively

• Commitment to a collegial and inclusive workplace

• Field work experience and a valid driver's license

• Advanced English (oral and writing)