Research Engineer in atmospheric measurements in extreme environments
Mission
The Extreme Environments Research Laboratory (EERL) is looking for a research engineer to support and enhance our field and laboratory measurements of atmospheric aerosols, trace gases and clouds. EERL is running several projects in the Arctic and Antarctic, including participation in large international endeavors such as Tara Polar Station and Antarctica InSync. Specifically, we are focused on vertical measurements, with our EERL helikite being the main platform. As payload we deploy both commercially available instruments as well as our own developments. Our newest helikite system (AVATAR) is nearly fully automated, allowing a single operator to handle the system in challenging conditions. We plan to further develop it for large-scale deployment.
The successful candidate will be interested in further developing existing systems as well as developing new ones to push the boundaries of our observational capabilities. They will also have a genuine interest in atmospheric and aerosol sciences, as well as polar regions.
EERL forms part of EPFL’s new Alpine and Polar Environmental Research Centre (ALPOLE) of EPFL on the campus in Sion.
Main duties and responsibilities
Further develop and maintain the helikite system (winch, board computer, communication/control system, instrument integration in payload) and other custom‑made laboratory systems
Obtain flight permissions
Design experiments, and contribute with own ideas to new observational and instrumental needs that arise
Support EERL researchers in maintaining and repairing instrumentation
Support field logistics
Participate in field campaigns
Keep health and safety standards in the laboratory
Documentation of work and systems
General contribution to EERL’s activities
Participate in student supervision
Promote polar research and its impact to the public
Profile
MSc in engineering with experience in electrical and mechanical engineering, mechatronics and applied physics
Skills in analog & digital circuit design, PCB design, embedded systems (ARM, Arduino, STM32), basics in signal processing
Coding experience (e.g., python, Matlab) and data handling/visualization
Experience in building prototypes
Experience in lab work and fixing of instrumentation
Experience in project management
Experience in field work is an asset
Good interpersonal skills, team player
Good knowledge of English (written and spoken)
We offer
A dynamic, interdisciplinary and young research group
A vibrant, internationally visible and rising academic institution in alpine and polar environmental research
A great working atmosphere and ample opportunities for professional and personal development with access to many continuing education courses
The position will be granted initially for two years with a long‑term vision. Desired start date is 15 July 2026 or as soon as possible thereafter.
Contract Start Date: 07/15/2026 or as soon as possible thereafter
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