Search result: Catalogue data in Spring Semester 2019
Atmospheric and Climate Science Master  | ||||||
 ElectivesThe students are free to choose individually from the entire course offer of ETH Zürich and the universities of Zürich and Bern. | ||||||
| Weather Systems and Atmospheric Dynamics | ||||||
| Number | Title | Type | ECTS | Hours | Lecturers | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 701-1236-00L | Measurement Methods in Meteorology and Climate Research | W | 1 credit | 1V | M. Hirschi, D. Michel, S. I. Seneviratne | |
| Abstract | Physical, technical, and theoretical basics for measuring physical quantities in the atmosphere. Considerations related to the planning of observation campaigns and to data evaluation. | |||||
| Learning objective | Become sensitive for specific problems when making measurements in the atmosphere under severe environmental conditions. Know the different methods and techniques, develop criteria for the choice of the optimal measurement method for a given problem. Find the optimal observation strategy in terms of choice of instrument, frequency of observation, accuracy, etc. | |||||
| Content | Problems related to time series analysis, sampling theorem, time constant and sampling rate. Theoretical analysis of different sensors for temperature, humidity, wind, and pressure. Discussion of effects disturbing the instruments. Principles of active and passive remote sensing. Measuring turbulent fluxes (e.g. heatflux) using eddy-correlation technique. Discussion of technical realizations of complex observing systems (radiosondes, automatic weather stations, radar, wind profilers). Demonstration of instruments. | |||||
| Lecture notes | Students can download a copy of the lectures as PDF-files. | |||||
| Literature | - Emeis, Stefan: Measurement Methods in Atmospheric Sciences, In situ and remote. Bornträger 2010, ISBN 978-3-443-01066-9 - Brock, F. V. and S. J. Richardson: Meteorological Measurement Systems, Oxford University Press 2001, ISBN 0-19-513451-6 - Thomas P. DeFelice: An Introduction to Meteorological Instrumentation and Measurement. Prentice-Hall 2000, 229 p., ISBN 0-13-243270-6 - Fritschen, L.J., Gay L.W.: Environmental Instrumentation, 216 p., Springer, New York 1979. - Lenschow, D.H. (ed.): Probing the Atmospheric Boundary Layer, 269 p., American Meteorological Society, Boston MA 1986. - Meteorological Office (publ.): Handbook of Meteorological Instruments, 8 vols., Her Majesty's Stationery Office, London 1980. - Wang, J.Y., Felton, C.M.M.: Instruments for Physical Environmental measurements, 2 vol., 801 p., Kendall/Hunt Publ. Comp., Dubuque Iowa 1975/76. | |||||
| Prerequisites / Notice | The lecture focuses on physical atmospheric parameters while lecture 701-0234-00 concentrates on the chemical quantities. The lectures are complementary, together they provide the instrumental basics for the lab course 701-0460-00. Contact hours of the lab course are such that the lectures can be attended (which is recommended). | |||||
| 701-1266-00L | Weather Discussion  Limited number of participants. Preference will be given to students on the masters level in Atmospheric and Climate Science and Environmental Sciences and doctoral students in Environmental Sciences. Prerequisites: Basic knowledge in meteorology is required for this class, students are advised to take courses 702-0473-00L and/or 701-1221-00L before attending this course. | W | 2.5 credits | 2P | H. Wernli | |
| Abstract | This three-parts course includes: (i) concise units to update the students knowledge about key aspects of mid-latitude weather systems and numerical weather prediction, (ii) a concrete application of this knowledge to predict and discuss the "weather of the week", and (iii) an in-depth case study analysis, performed in small groups, of a remarkable past weather event. | |||||
| Learning objective | Students will learn how to elaborate a weather prediction and to cope with uncertainties of weather (probabilistic) prediction models. They will also learn how to apply theoretical concepts from other lecture courses on atmospheric dynamics to perform a detailed case study of a specific weather event, using state-of-the-art observational and model-derived products and datasets. | |||||
| 701-1280-00L | Self-learning Course on Advanced Topics in Atmospheric and Climate Science Please contact one of the professors listed under prerequisites/notice if you plan to take this course. Students are allowed to enroll in both courses 701-1280-00L & 701-1281-00L Self-learning Course on Advanced Topics in Atmospheric and Climate Science but have to choose different supervisors. | W | 3 credits | 6A | Supervisors | |
| Abstract | This course offers an individual pathway to deepen knowledge and understanding of a specific advanced topic in atmospheric and climate science in one of these fields: - atmospheric chemistry - atmospheric circulation and predictability - atmospheric dynamics - atmospheric physics - climate modeling - climate physics - land-climate dynamics | |||||
| Learning objective | The learning goals of this course are threefold: 1) obtain novel insight into an advanced scientific topic, 2) train the self-study competences in particular related to reading of advanced textbooks and writing a concise summary, and 3) gain experience in the scientific interaction with experts. The format of the course is complementary to other types of teaching (lectures and seminars) and addresses skills that are essential for a wide range of professional activities (including a PhD). | |||||
| Content | The course has the following elements: Week 1: Selection of specific topic and decision about reading material (textbook chapters and maybe 1-2 review papers) Week 2: General discussion about self-study skills (how to read scientific literature and write summaries; specifics of scientific writing; how to prepare efficient meetings). For the scientific writing, students are encouraged to participate in an online training course offered by Stanford University: https://lagunita.stanford.edu/courses/Medicine/SciWrite-SP/SelfPaced/about Weeks 6 and 9: Meetings with supervisor to clarify scientific questions Week 12: Hand-in of written summary (4 pages maximum) Week 14: Supervisor provides written feedback to the summary document Week 16: Oral exam about the scientific topic | |||||
| Literature | Literature (including book chapters, scientific publications) will be provided by the responsible supervisor in coordination with the student. | |||||
| Prerequisites / Notice | Prerequisites depend on the chosen field and include successful completion of the listed lecture courses: • atmospheric dynamics: “Dynamics of large-scale atmospheric flow” (701-1221-00L) • atmospheric chemistry: “Stratospheric Chemistry” (701-1233-00L) or “Tropospheric Chemistry” (701-1234-00L) or “Aerosols I” (402-0572-00L). • atmospheric physics: “Atmospheric Physics” (701-0475-00L) • climate physics: “Klimasysteme” (701-0412-00L) or equivalent • land-climate dynamics: “Land-climate dynamics” (701-1251-00L) • climate modeling: “Numerical modeling of weather and climate” (701-1216-00L) (parallel attendance possible) • atmospheric circulation and predictability: “Dynamics of large-scale atmospheric flow” (701-1221-00L) If you plan to take this course, please contact one of the professors according to your interest. • atmospheric chemistry (Prof. T. Peter) • atmospheric circulation and predictability (Prof. D. Domeisen) • atmospheric dynamics (Prof. H. Wernli) • atmospheric physics (Prof. U. Lohmann) • climate modeling (Prof. C. Schär) • climate physics (Prof. R. Knutti) • land-climate dynamics (Prof. S. Seneviratne) | |||||
| Climate Processes and Feedbacks | ||||||
| Number | Title | Type | ECTS | Hours | Lecturers | |
| 701-1228-00L | Cloud Dynamics: Hurricanes | W | 4 credits | 3G | U. Lohmann | |
| Abstract | Hurricanes are among the most destructive elements in the atmosphere. This lecture will discuss the physical requirements for their formation, life cycle, damage potential and their relationship to global warming. It also distinguishes hurricanes from thunderstorms and tornadoes. | |||||
| Learning objective | At the end of this course students will be able to distinguish the formation and life cycle mechanisms of tropical cyclones from those of extratropical thunderstorms/cyclones, project how tropical cyclones change in a warmer climate based on their physics and evaluate different tropical cyclone modification ideas. | |||||
| Lecture notes | Slides will be made available | |||||
| Literature | A literature list can be found here: http://www.iac.ethz.ch/edu/courses/master/modules/cloud_dynamics | |||||
| Prerequisites / Notice | At least one introductory lecture in Atmospheric Science or Instructor's consent. | |||||
| 701-1280-00L | Self-learning Course on Advanced Topics in Atmospheric and Climate Science Please contact one of the professors listed under prerequisites/notice if you plan to take this course. Students are allowed to enroll in both courses 701-1280-00L & 701-1281-00L Self-learning Course on Advanced Topics in Atmospheric and Climate Science but have to choose different supervisors. | W | 3 credits | 6A | Supervisors | |
| Abstract | This course offers an individual pathway to deepen knowledge and understanding of a specific advanced topic in atmospheric and climate science in one of these fields: - atmospheric chemistry - atmospheric circulation and predictability - atmospheric dynamics - atmospheric physics - climate modeling - climate physics - land-climate dynamics | |||||
| Learning objective | The learning goals of this course are threefold: 1) obtain novel insight into an advanced scientific topic, 2) train the self-study competences in particular related to reading of advanced textbooks and writing a concise summary, and 3) gain experience in the scientific interaction with experts. The format of the course is complementary to other types of teaching (lectures and seminars) and addresses skills that are essential for a wide range of professional activities (including a PhD). | |||||
| Content | The course has the following elements: Week 1: Selection of specific topic and decision about reading material (textbook chapters and maybe 1-2 review papers) Week 2: General discussion about self-study skills (how to read scientific literature and write summaries; specifics of scientific writing; how to prepare efficient meetings). For the scientific writing, students are encouraged to participate in an online training course offered by Stanford University: https://lagunita.stanford.edu/courses/Medicine/SciWrite-SP/SelfPaced/about Weeks 6 and 9: Meetings with supervisor to clarify scientific questions Week 12: Hand-in of written summary (4 pages maximum) Week 14: Supervisor provides written feedback to the summary document Week 16: Oral exam about the scientific topic | |||||
| Literature | Literature (including book chapters, scientific publications) will be provided by the responsible supervisor in coordination with the student. | |||||
| Prerequisites / Notice | Prerequisites depend on the chosen field and include successful completion of the listed lecture courses: • atmospheric dynamics: “Dynamics of large-scale atmospheric flow” (701-1221-00L) • atmospheric chemistry: “Stratospheric Chemistry” (701-1233-00L) or “Tropospheric Chemistry” (701-1234-00L) or “Aerosols I” (402-0572-00L). • atmospheric physics: “Atmospheric Physics” (701-0475-00L) • climate physics: “Klimasysteme” (701-0412-00L) or equivalent • land-climate dynamics: “Land-climate dynamics” (701-1251-00L) • climate modeling: “Numerical modeling of weather and climate” (701-1216-00L) (parallel attendance possible) • atmospheric circulation and predictability: “Dynamics of large-scale atmospheric flow” (701-1221-00L) If you plan to take this course, please contact one of the professors according to your interest. • atmospheric chemistry (Prof. T. Peter) • atmospheric circulation and predictability (Prof. D. Domeisen) • atmospheric dynamics (Prof. H. Wernli) • atmospheric physics (Prof. U. Lohmann) • climate modeling (Prof. C. Schär) • climate physics (Prof. R. Knutti) • land-climate dynamics (Prof. S. Seneviratne) | |||||
| Atmospheric Composition and Cycles | ||||||
| Number | Title | Type | ECTS | Hours | Lecturers | |
| 701-1244-00L | Aerosols II: Applications in Environment and Technology | W | 4 credits | 2V + 1U | J. Slowik, U. Baltensperger, M. Gysel Beer | |
| Abstract | Major topics: Important sources and sinks of atmospheric aerosols and their importance for men and environment. Particle emissions from combustion systems, means to reduce emissions like particle filters. | |||||
| Learning objective | Profound knowledge about aerosols in the atmosphere and applications of aerosols in technology | |||||
| Content | Atmospheric aerosols: important sources and sinks, wet and dry deposition, chemical composition, importance for men and environment, interaction with the gas phase, influence on climate. Technical aerosols: combustion aerosols, techniques to reduce emissions, application of aerosols in technology | |||||
| Lecture notes | Information is distributed during the lectures | |||||
| Literature | - Colbeck I. (ed.) Physical and Chemical Properties of Aerosols, Blackie Academic & Professional, London, 1998. - Seinfeld, J.H., and S.N. Pandis, Atmospheric chemistry and physics, John Wiley, New York, (1998). | |||||
| 701-0234-00L | Atmospheric Chemistry: Instruments and Measuring Techniques | W | 1 credit | 1V | U. Krieger | |
| Abstract | Measuring Techniques: Environmental Monitoring, Trace Gas Detection, Remote Sensing, Aerosol Characterization, Techniques used in the laboratory. | |||||
| Learning objective | Find out about the specific problems connected to composition measurements in the atmosphere. Working out criteria for selecting an optimal measuring strategy. Acquiring knowledge about different measuring methods their spectroscopic principles and of some specific instruments. | |||||
| Content | Es werden Methoden und Geräte vorgestellt und theoretisch analysiert, die in atmosphärenchemischen Messungen Verwendung finden: Geräte zur Überwachung im Rahmen der Luftreinhalteverordnung, Spurengasanlysemethoden, "remote sensing", Aerosolmessgeräte, Messverfahren bei Labormessungen zu atmosphärischen Fragestellungen. | |||||
| Literature | B. J. Finnlayson-Pitts, J. N. Pitts, "Chemistry of the Upper and Lower Atmosphere", Academic Press, San Diego, 2000 | |||||
| Prerequisites / Notice | Methodenvorlesung zu den Praktika 701-0460-00 und 701-1230-00. Die Kontaktzeiten in diesen Praktika sind so abgestimmt, dass der (empfohlene) Besuch der Vorlesung möglich ist. Voraussetzungen: Atmosphärenphysik I und II | |||||
| 651-4004-00L | The Global Carbon Cycle - Reduced | W | 3 credits | 2G | T. I. Eglinton, M. Lupker | |
| Abstract | The carbon cycle connects different reservoirs of C, including life on Earth, atmospheric CO2, and economically important geological reserves of C. Much of this C is in reduced (organic) form, and is composed of complex chemical structures that reflect diverse biological activity, processes and transformations. | |||||
| Learning objective | A wealth of information is held within the complex organic molecules, both in the context of the contemporary carbon cycle and its links to is other biogeochemical cycles, as well as in relation to Earth's history, the evolution of life and climate on this planet. In this course we will learn about the role of reduced forms of carbon in the global cycle, how these forms of carbon are produced, move around the planet, and become sequestered in the geological record, and how they can be used to infer biological activity and conditions on this planet in the geologic past. The course encompasses a range of spatial and temporal scales, from molecular to global, and from the contemporary environment to earliest life. | |||||
| Prerequisites / Notice | This course and the lecture course "651-4044-00L Geomicrobiology and Biogeochemistry" https://lms.uzh.ch/url/RepositoryEntry/16135979092?guest=true&lang=en are good preparations for the combined Field-Lab Course ("651-4044-02 P Geomicrobiology and Biogeochemistry Field Course" and "651-4044-01 P Geomicrobiology and Biogeochemistry Lab Practical"). Details under https://lms.uzh.ch/url/RepositoryEntry/16135979094?guest=true&lang=en | |||||
| 701-1240-00L | Modelling Environmental Pollutants | W | 3 credits | 2G | M. Scheringer, C. Bogdal | |
| Abstract | Modeling the emissions, transport, partitioning and transformation/degradation of chemical contaminants in air, water and soil. | |||||
| Learning objective | This course is intended for students who are interested in the environmental fate and transport of volatile and semi-volatile organic chemicals and exposure to pollutants in environmental media including air, water, soil and biota. The course focuses on the theory and application of mass-balance models of environmental pollutants. These models are quantitative tools for describing, understanding, and predicting the way pollutants interact with the environment. Important topics include thermodynamic and kinetic descriptions of chemical behavior in environmental systems; mechanisms of chemical degradation in air and other media; novel approaches to modeling chemical fate in a variety of environments, including lakes and rivers, generic regions, and at the global scale, and application of mass balance modeling principles to describe bioaccumulation of pollutants by fish and mammals. | |||||
| Content | Application of mass balance principles to chemicals in a system of coupled environmental media. Measurement and estimation of physico-chemical properties that determine the environmental behavior of chemicals. Thermodynamic and kinetic controls on the behavior of pollutants. Modeling environmental persistence, bioaccumulation and long-range transport potential of chemicals, including a review of available empirical data on various degradation processes. Current issues in multimedia contaminant fate modeling and a case study of the student's choice. | |||||
| Lecture notes | Material to support the lectures will be distributed during the course. | |||||
| Literature | There is no required text. The following texts are useful for background reading and additional information. D. Mackay. Multimedia Environmental Models: The Fugacity Approach, 2nd Ed. 2001. CRC Press. R. P. Schwarzenbach, P. M. Gschwend, D. M. Imboden. Environmental Organic Chemistry. 2nd Ed. 2003, John Wiley & Sons. M. Scheringer. Persistence and spatial range of environmental chemicals: New ethical and scientific concepts for risk assessment. 2002. Wiley-VCH. | |||||
| 701-1317-00L | Global Biogeochemical Cycles and Climate | W | 3 credits | 3G | N. Gruber, M. Vogt | |
| Abstract | The human-induced emissions of carbon dioxide has led to atmospheric CO2 concentrations that Earth likely has no’t seen for the last 30 million years. This course aims to investigate and understand the impact of humans on Earth's biogeochemical cycles with a focus on the carbon cycle and its interaction with the physical climate system for the past, the present, and the future. | |||||
| Learning objective | This course aims to investigate the nature of the interaction between biogeochemical cycles on land and in the ocean with climate and how this interaction has evolved over time and will change in the future. Students are expected to participate actively in the course, which includes the critical reading of the pertinent literature and class presentations. | |||||
| Content | Topics discussed include: The anthropogenic perturbation of the global carbon cycle and climate. Response of land and oceanic ecosystems to past and future global changes; Interactions between biogeochemical cycles on land and in the ocean; Biogeochemical processes controlling carbon dioxide and oxygen in the ocean and atmosphere on time-scales from a few years to a few hundred thousand years. | |||||
| Lecture notes | Sarmiento & Gruber (2006), Ocean Biogeochemical Dynamics, Princeton University Press. Additional handouts will be provided as needed. see website: http://www.up.ethz.ch/education/biogeochem_cycles | |||||
| Literature | Sarmiento & Gruber (2006), Ocean Biogeochemical Dynamics, Princeton University Press, 526pp. MacKenzie, F. T. (1999), Global biogeochemical cycles and the physical climate system, Global Change Instruction Program, UCAR, Boulder, CO, 69pp. W. H. Schlesinger (1997), Biogeochemistry: An Analysis of Global Change, Academic Press. Original literature. | |||||
| 701-1280-00L | Self-learning Course on Advanced Topics in Atmospheric and Climate Science Please contact one of the professors listed under prerequisites/notice if you plan to take this course. Students are allowed to enroll in both courses 701-1280-00L & 701-1281-00L Self-learning Course on Advanced Topics in Atmospheric and Climate Science but have to choose different supervisors. | W | 3 credits | 6A | Supervisors | |
| Abstract | This course offers an individual pathway to deepen knowledge and understanding of a specific advanced topic in atmospheric and climate science in one of these fields: - atmospheric chemistry - atmospheric circulation and predictability - atmospheric dynamics - atmospheric physics - climate modeling - climate physics - land-climate dynamics | |||||
| Learning objective | The learning goals of this course are threefold: 1) obtain novel insight into an advanced scientific topic, 2) train the self-study competences in particular related to reading of advanced textbooks and writing a concise summary, and 3) gain experience in the scientific interaction with experts. The format of the course is complementary to other types of teaching (lectures and seminars) and addresses skills that are essential for a wide range of professional activities (including a PhD). | |||||
| Content | The course has the following elements: Week 1: Selection of specific topic and decision about reading material (textbook chapters and maybe 1-2 review papers) Week 2: General discussion about self-study skills (how to read scientific literature and write summaries; specifics of scientific writing; how to prepare efficient meetings). For the scientific writing, students are encouraged to participate in an online training course offered by Stanford University: https://lagunita.stanford.edu/courses/Medicine/SciWrite-SP/SelfPaced/about Weeks 6 and 9: Meetings with supervisor to clarify scientific questions Week 12: Hand-in of written summary (4 pages maximum) Week 14: Supervisor provides written feedback to the summary document Week 16: Oral exam about the scientific topic | |||||
| Literature | Literature (including book chapters, scientific publications) will be provided by the responsible supervisor in coordination with the student. | |||||
| Prerequisites / Notice | Prerequisites depend on the chosen field and include successful completion of the listed lecture courses: • atmospheric dynamics: “Dynamics of large-scale atmospheric flow” (701-1221-00L) • atmospheric chemistry: “Stratospheric Chemistry” (701-1233-00L) or “Tropospheric Chemistry” (701-1234-00L) or “Aerosols I” (402-0572-00L). • atmospheric physics: “Atmospheric Physics” (701-0475-00L) • climate physics: “Klimasysteme” (701-0412-00L) or equivalent • land-climate dynamics: “Land-climate dynamics” (701-1251-00L) • climate modeling: “Numerical modeling of weather and climate” (701-1216-00L) (parallel attendance possible) • atmospheric circulation and predictability: “Dynamics of large-scale atmospheric flow” (701-1221-00L) If you plan to take this course, please contact one of the professors according to your interest. • atmospheric chemistry (Prof. T. Peter) • atmospheric circulation and predictability (Prof. D. Domeisen) • atmospheric dynamics (Prof. H. Wernli) • atmospheric physics (Prof. U. Lohmann) • climate modeling (Prof. C. Schär) • climate physics (Prof. R. Knutti) • land-climate dynamics (Prof. S. Seneviratne) | |||||
| Climate History and Paleoclimatology | ||||||
| Number | Title | Type | ECTS | Hours | Lecturers | |
| 651-3424-00L | Sedimentology and Stratigraphie | W | 4 credits | 3G | A. Gilli | |
| Abstract | Introduction of a range of concepts in sedimentology, Earth's surface processes and sedimentary geology in terms of processes and products. Familiarize students with a range of erosional, transportational and depositional processes and environments. The typical facies of the main depositional environments will be introduced. | |||||
| Learning objective | Students know about physical, chemical and biogenic sediments and sedimentary rocks. They are familiar with important physical, chemical and biological apects of sedimentation in continental settings and in the marine environment. The have the fundamentals needed for analysis and interpretation of sediments and sedimentary rocks in the field. | |||||
| Content | Teil I Marine and lakustrische Sedimente: -pelagische Sedimente -hemipelagische Sedimente -kieslige Sedimente -Flachwasserkarbonate: Fazies, Diagenese -lakustische Sedimente -Evaporite Teil II klastische Sedimente - Sediment Transport, Strukturen und Schichtformen - Terrestrische, flachmarine und tiefmarine Ablagerungsbereiche, Prozesse und Ablagerungsstrukturen - Diagenese von Sandstein - Tongesteine | |||||
| Lecture notes | Sedimentologie-Skript | |||||
| Prerequisites / Notice | Vorlesung "Dynamische Erde" oder vergleichbare Einführungsvorlesung | |||||
| 701-1317-00L | Global Biogeochemical Cycles and Climate | W | 3 credits | 3G | N. Gruber, M. Vogt | |
| Abstract | The human-induced emissions of carbon dioxide has led to atmospheric CO2 concentrations that Earth likely has no’t seen for the last 30 million years. This course aims to investigate and understand the impact of humans on Earth's biogeochemical cycles with a focus on the carbon cycle and its interaction with the physical climate system for the past, the present, and the future. | |||||
| Learning objective | This course aims to investigate the nature of the interaction between biogeochemical cycles on land and in the ocean with climate and how this interaction has evolved over time and will change in the future. Students are expected to participate actively in the course, which includes the critical reading of the pertinent literature and class presentations. | |||||
| Content | Topics discussed include: The anthropogenic perturbation of the global carbon cycle and climate. Response of land and oceanic ecosystems to past and future global changes; Interactions between biogeochemical cycles on land and in the ocean; Biogeochemical processes controlling carbon dioxide and oxygen in the ocean and atmosphere on time-scales from a few years to a few hundred thousand years. | |||||
| Lecture notes | Sarmiento & Gruber (2006), Ocean Biogeochemical Dynamics, Princeton University Press. Additional handouts will be provided as needed. see website: http://www.up.ethz.ch/education/biogeochem_cycles | |||||
| Literature | Sarmiento & Gruber (2006), Ocean Biogeochemical Dynamics, Princeton University Press, 526pp. MacKenzie, F. T. (1999), Global biogeochemical cycles and the physical climate system, Global Change Instruction Program, UCAR, Boulder, CO, 69pp. W. H. Schlesinger (1997), Biogeochemistry: An Analysis of Global Change, Academic Press. Original literature. | |||||
| 701-1280-00L | Self-learning Course on Advanced Topics in Atmospheric and Climate Science Please contact one of the professors listed under prerequisites/notice if you plan to take this course. Students are allowed to enroll in both courses 701-1280-00L & 701-1281-00L Self-learning Course on Advanced Topics in Atmospheric and Climate Science but have to choose different supervisors. | W | 3 credits | 6A | Supervisors | |
| Abstract | This course offers an individual pathway to deepen knowledge and understanding of a specific advanced topic in atmospheric and climate science in one of these fields: - atmospheric chemistry - atmospheric circulation and predictability - atmospheric dynamics - atmospheric physics - climate modeling - climate physics - land-climate dynamics | |||||
| Learning objective | The learning goals of this course are threefold: 1) obtain novel insight into an advanced scientific topic, 2) train the self-study competences in particular related to reading of advanced textbooks and writing a concise summary, and 3) gain experience in the scientific interaction with experts. The format of the course is complementary to other types of teaching (lectures and seminars) and addresses skills that are essential for a wide range of professional activities (including a PhD). | |||||
| Content | The course has the following elements: Week 1: Selection of specific topic and decision about reading material (textbook chapters and maybe 1-2 review papers) Week 2: General discussion about self-study skills (how to read scientific literature and write summaries; specifics of scientific writing; how to prepare efficient meetings). For the scientific writing, students are encouraged to participate in an online training course offered by Stanford University: https://lagunita.stanford.edu/courses/Medicine/SciWrite-SP/SelfPaced/about Weeks 6 and 9: Meetings with supervisor to clarify scientific questions Week 12: Hand-in of written summary (4 pages maximum) Week 14: Supervisor provides written feedback to the summary document Week 16: Oral exam about the scientific topic | |||||
| Literature | Literature (including book chapters, scientific publications) will be provided by the responsible supervisor in coordination with the student. | |||||
| Prerequisites / Notice | Prerequisites depend on the chosen field and include successful completion of the listed lecture courses: • atmospheric dynamics: “Dynamics of large-scale atmospheric flow” (701-1221-00L) • atmospheric chemistry: “Stratospheric Chemistry” (701-1233-00L) or “Tropospheric Chemistry” (701-1234-00L) or “Aerosols I” (402-0572-00L). • atmospheric physics: “Atmospheric Physics” (701-0475-00L) • climate physics: “Klimasysteme” (701-0412-00L) or equivalent • land-climate dynamics: “Land-climate dynamics” (701-1251-00L) • climate modeling: “Numerical modeling of weather and climate” (701-1216-00L) (parallel attendance possible) • atmospheric circulation and predictability: “Dynamics of large-scale atmospheric flow” (701-1221-00L) If you plan to take this course, please contact one of the professors according to your interest. • atmospheric chemistry (Prof. T. Peter) • atmospheric circulation and predictability (Prof. D. Domeisen) • atmospheric dynamics (Prof. H. Wernli) • atmospheric physics (Prof. U. Lohmann) • climate modeling (Prof. C. Schär) • climate physics (Prof. R. Knutti) • land-climate dynamics (Prof. S. Seneviratne) | |||||
| Hydrology and Water Cycle | ||||||
| Number | Title | Type | ECTS | Hours | Lecturers | |
| 102-0468-00L | Watershed Modelling | W | 3 credits | 2G | P. Molnar | |
| Abstract | Introduction to watershed modelling with applications of GIS in hydrology, the use of semi- and fully-distributed continuous watershed models, and their calibration and validation. The course contains substantive practical modelling experience in several assignments. | |||||
| Learning objective | Watershed Modelling is a course in the Master of Science in Environmental Engineering Programme. It is a practical course in which the students learn to (a) use GIS in hydrological applications, (b) calibrate and validate models, (c) apply and interpret semi- and fully- distributed continuous watershed models, and (d) discuss several modelling case studies. This course is a follow up of Hydrology 2 and requires solid computer skills. | |||||
| Content | - Introduction to watershed modelling - GIS in watershed modelling (ArcGIS exercise) - Calibration and validation of models - Semi-distributed modelling with PRMS (model description, application) - Distributed watershed modelling with TOPKAPI (model description, application) - Modelling applications and case studies (climate change scenarios, land use change, basin erosion) | |||||
| Literature | - Lecture presentations - Exercise documentation - Relevant scientific papers all posted on the course website | |||||
| 701-1216-00L | Numerical Modelling of Weather and Climate | W | 4 credits | 3G | C. Schär, N. Ban | |
| Abstract | The course provides an introduction to weather and climate models. It discusses how these models are built addressing both the dynamical core and the physical parameterizations, and it provides an overview of how these models are used in numerical weather prediction and climate research. As a tutorial, students conduct a term project and build a simple atmospheric model using the language PYTHON. | |||||
| Learning objective | At the end of this course, students understand how weather and climate models are formulated from the governing physical principles, and how they are used for climate and weather prediction purposes. | |||||
| Content | The course provides an introduction into the following themes: numerical methods (finite differences and spectral methods); adiabatic formulation of atmospheric models (vertical coordinates, hydrostatic approximation); parameterization of physical processes (e.g. clouds, convection, boundary layer, radiation); atmospheric data assimilation and weather prediction; predictability (chaos-theory, ensemble methods); climate models (coupled atmospheric, oceanic and biogeochemical models); climate prediction. Hands-on experience with simple models will be acquired in the tutorials. | |||||
| Lecture notes | Slides and lecture notes will be made available at Link | |||||
| Literature | List of literature will be provided. | |||||
| Prerequisites / Notice | Prerequisites: to follow this course, you need some basic background in atmospheric science, numerical methods (e.g., "Numerische Methoden in der Umweltphysik", 701-0461-00L) as well as experience in programming. Previous experience with PYTHON is useful but not required. | |||||
| 102-0448-00L | Groundwater II | W | 6 credits | 4G | M. Willmann, J. Jimenez-Martinez | |
| Abstract | The course is based on the course 'Groundwater I' and is a prerequisite for a deeper understanding of groundwater flow and contaminant transport problems with a strong emphasis on numerical modeling. | |||||
| Learning objective | The course should enable students to understand advanced concepts of groundwater flow and transport and to apply groundwater flow and transport modelling. the student should be able to a) formulate practical flow and contaminant transport problems. b) solve steady-state and transient flow and transport problems in 2 and 3 spatial dimensions using numerical codes based on the finite difference method and the finite element methods. c) solve simple inverse flow problems for parameter estimation given measurements. d) assess simple multiphase flow problems. e) assess spatial variability of parameters and use of stochastic techniques in this task. f) assess simple coupled reactive transport problems. | |||||
| Content | Introduction and basic flow and contaminant transport equation. Numerical solution of the 3D flow equation using the finite difference method. Numerical solution to the flow equation using the finite element equation Numerical solution to the transport equation using the finite difference method. Alternative methods for transport modeling like method of characteristics and the random walk method. Two-phase flow and Unsaturated flow problems. Spatial variability of parameters and its geostatistical representation -geostatistics and stochastic modelling. Reactive transport modelling. | |||||
| Lecture notes | Handouts | |||||
| Literature | - Anderson, M. and W. Woessner, Applied Groundwater Modeling, Elsevier Science & Technology Books, 448 p., 2002 - J. Bear and A. Cheng, Modeling Groundwater Flow and Contaminant Transport, Springer, 2010 - Appelo, C.A.J. and D. Postma, Geochemistry, Groundwater and Pollution, Second Edition, Taylor & Francis, 2005 - Rubin, Y., Applied Stochastic Hydrology, Oxford University Press, 2003 - Chiang und Kinzelbach, 3-D Groundwater Modeling with PMWIN. Springer, 2001. | |||||
| Prerequisites / Notice | Each afternoon will be divided into 2 h of lectures and 2h of exercises. Two thirds of the exercises of the course are organized as a computer workshop to get hands-on experience with groundwater modelling. | |||||
| 102-0488-00L | Water Resources Management | W | 3 credits | 2G | P. Burlando | |
| Abstract | Modern engineering approach to problems of sustainable water resources, planning and management of water allocation requires the understanding of modelling techniques that allow to account for comprehensive water uses (thereby including ecological needs) and stakeholders needs, long-term analysis and optimization. The course presents the most relevant approaches to address these problems. | |||||
| Learning objective | The course provides the essential knowledge and tools of water resources planning and management. Core of the course are the concepts of data analysis, simulation, optimization and reliability assessment in relation to water projects and sustainable water resources management. | |||||
| Content | The course is organized in four parts. Part 1 is a general introduction to the purposes and aims of sustainable water resources management, problem understanding and tools identification. Part 2 recalls Time Series Analysis and Linear Stochastic Models. An introduction to Nonlinear Time Series Analysis and related techniques will then be made in order to broaden the vision of how determinism and stochasticity might sign hydrological and geophysical variables. Part 3 deals with the optimal allocation of water resources and introduces to several tools traditionally used in WRM, such as linear and dynamic programming. Special attention will be devoted to optimization (deterministic and stochastic) and compared to simulation techniques as design methods for allocation of water resources in complex and competitive systems, with focus on sustainability and stakeholders needs. Part 4 will introduce to basic indexes used in economical and reliability analyses, and will focus on multicriteria analysis methods as a tool to assess the reliability of water systems in relation to design alternatives. | |||||
| Lecture notes | A copy of the lecture handouts will be available on the webpage of the course. Complementary documentation in the form of scientific and technical articles, as well as excerpts from books will be also made available. | |||||
| Literature | A number of book chapters and paper articles will be listed and suggested to read. They will also be part of discussion during the oral examination. | |||||
| Prerequisites / Notice | Suggested relevant courses: Hydrologie I (or a similar content course) and Wasserhaushalt (Teil "Wasserwirtschaft", 4. Sem. UmweltIng., or a similar content course) for those students not belonging to Environmental Engineering. | |||||
| 701-1280-00L | Self-learning Course on Advanced Topics in Atmospheric and Climate Science Please contact one of the professors listed under prerequisites/notice if you plan to take this course. Students are allowed to enroll in both courses 701-1280-00L & 701-1281-00L Self-learning Course on Advanced Topics in Atmospheric and Climate Science but have to choose different supervisors. | W | 3 credits | 6A | Supervisors | |
| Abstract | This course offers an individual pathway to deepen knowledge and understanding of a specific advanced topic in atmospheric and climate science in one of these fields: - atmospheric chemistry - atmospheric circulation and predictability - atmospheric dynamics - atmospheric physics - climate modeling - climate physics - land-climate dynamics | |||||
| Learning objective | The learning goals of this course are threefold: 1) obtain novel insight into an advanced scientific topic, 2) train the self-study competences in particular related to reading of advanced textbooks and writing a concise summary, and 3) gain experience in the scientific interaction with experts. The format of the course is complementary to other types of teaching (lectures and seminars) and addresses skills that are essential for a wide range of professional activities (including a PhD). | |||||
| Content | The course has the following elements: Week 1: Selection of specific topic and decision about reading material (textbook chapters and maybe 1-2 review papers) Week 2: General discussion about self-study skills (how to read scientific literature and write summaries; specifics of scientific writing; how to prepare efficient meetings). For the scientific writing, students are encouraged to participate in an online training course offered by Stanford University: https://lagunita.stanford.edu/courses/Medicine/SciWrite-SP/SelfPaced/about Weeks 6 and 9: Meetings with supervisor to clarify scientific questions Week 12: Hand-in of written summary (4 pages maximum) Week 14: Supervisor provides written feedback to the summary document Week 16: Oral exam about the scientific topic | |||||
| Literature | Literature (including book chapters, scientific publications) will be provided by the responsible supervisor in coordination with the student. | |||||
| Prerequisites / Notice | Prerequisites depend on the chosen field and include successful completion of the listed lecture courses: • atmospheric dynamics: “Dynamics of large-scale atmospheric flow” (701-1221-00L) • atmospheric chemistry: “Stratospheric Chemistry” (701-1233-00L) or “Tropospheric Chemistry” (701-1234-00L) or “Aerosols I” (402-0572-00L). • atmospheric physics: “Atmospheric Physics” (701-0475-00L) • climate physics: “Klimasysteme” (701-0412-00L) or equivalent • land-climate dynamics: “Land-climate dynamics” (701-1251-00L) • climate modeling: “Numerical modeling of weather and climate” (701-1216-00L) (parallel attendance possible) • atmospheric circulation and predictability: “Dynamics of large-scale atmospheric flow” (701-1221-00L) If you plan to take this course, please contact one of the professors according to your interest. • atmospheric chemistry (Prof. T. Peter) • atmospheric circulation and predictability (Prof. D. Domeisen) • atmospheric dynamics (Prof. H. Wernli) • atmospheric physics (Prof. U. Lohmann) • climate modeling (Prof. C. Schär) • climate physics (Prof. R. Knutti) • land-climate dynamics (Prof. S. Seneviratne) | |||||
| Prerequisites The definition of prerequisites is part of the admission procedure for the master studies. You are informed by the admission office as to what courses of the section «prerequisites» you have to catch up with. You are accredited for these courses in the electives block of the master studies. | ||||||
| Number | Title | Type | ECTS | Hours | Lecturers | |
| 701-0412-00L | Climate Systems | W | 3 credits | 2G | R. Knutti, I. Medhaug | |
| Abstract | This course introduces the most important physical components of the climate system and their interactions. The mechanisms of anthropogenic climate change are analysed against the background of climate history and variability. Those completing the course will be in a position to identify and explain simple problems in the area of climate systems. | |||||
| Learning objective | Students are able - to describe the most important physical components of the global climate system and sketch their interactions - to explain the mechanisms of anthropogenic climate change - to identify and explain simple problems in the area of climate systems | |||||
| Lecture notes | Copies of the slides are provided in electronic form. | |||||
| Literature | A comprehensive list of references is provided in the class. Two books are particularly recommended: - Hartmann, D., 2016: Global Physical Climatology. Academic Press, London, 485 pp. - Peixoto, J.P. and A.H. Oort, 1992: Physics of Climate. American Institute of Physics, New York, 520 pp. | |||||
| Prerequisites / Notice | Teaching: Reto Knutti, several keynotes to special topics by other professors Course taught in german, slides in english | |||||
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