Scientist for Radiocarbon Monitoring to Partition Fossil and Biogenic CO2 Emissions

Scientist for Radiocarbon Monitoring to Partition Fossil and Biogenic CO2 Emissions

Empa - Swiss Federal Laboratories for Materials Science and Technology

Dübendorf, Switzerland

Radiocarbon analysis in carbon dioxide (CO2) is the most direct tool to distinguish between renewable sources and fossil fuel combustion, and to support mitigation efforts towards carbon neutrality. We will establish the first analytical tool for continuous radiocarbon analysis in atmospheric CO2. The instrumental setup will comprise a SCAR radiocarbon spectrometer and a home-built QCLAS spectrometer for 13CO2/12CO2, both coupled to an automated preconcentration device to separate and purify CO2 from air.

As a partner of two European research projects, we are looking for a highly motivated scientist with strong interest and skills in analytics, data analysis and radiocarbon research.

Job description, responsibilities and tasks

• Setup an analytical platform for automated CO2 preconcentration from ambient air.
• Characterize, validate and automatize laser spectroscopy for radiocarbon (14CO2) and stable isotope analysis (13CO2).
• Establish, test and optimize an analytical workflow for sample / reference gas analysis and a software algorithm for data treatment.
• Collaborate with leading AMS laboratories to ensure comparability of on-line measurements with established low-frequency monitoring.
• Communicate results in project reports, scientific journals and at conferences.

Required skills

• MSc or PhD degree in chemistry, physics, or a related discipline.
• Strong skills in analytics and measurement techniques for stable isotopes and radiocarbon, and interest in complex automated setups.
• Software skills (e.g. Python, MATLAB or R).
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills in English. German is a plus.
• Self-responsibility and willingness for open communication and committed teamwork.

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