Search result: Catalogue data in Autumn Semester 2021
Doctoral Department of Environmental Sciences  More Information at: https://www.ethz.ch/en/doctorate.html | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
 Agricultural Sciences | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Graduate Programme in Plant Sciences | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Number | Title | Type | ECTS | Hours | Lecturers | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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| 751-4003-01L | Current Topics in Grassland Sciences (HS) | W | 2 credits | 2S | A. K. Gilgen | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Abstract | Research results in agro- and forest ecosystem sciences will be presented by experienced researchers as well as Ph.D. and graduate students. Citation classics as well as recent research results will be discussed. Topics will range from plant ecophysiology, biodiversity and biogeochemistry to management aspects in agro- and forest ecosystems. | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Learning objective | Students will be able to understand and evaluate experimental design and data interpretation of on-going studies, be able to critically analyze published research results, practice to present and discuss results in the public, and gain a broad knowledge of recent research and current topics in agro- and forest ecosystem sciences. | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Content | Research results in agro- and forest ecosystem sciences will be presented by experienced researchers as well as Ph.D. and graduate students. Citation classics as well as recent research results will be discussed. Topics will range from plant ecophysiology, biodiversity and biogeochemistry to management aspects in agro- and forest ecosystems. | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Lecture notes | none | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Prerequisites / Notice | Prerequisites: Basic knowledge of plant ecophysiology, terrestrial ecology and management of agro- and forest ecosystems. Course will be taught in English. | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 551-0205-00L | Challenges in Plant Sciences Number of participants limited to 40. | W | 2 credits | 2K | S. C. Zeeman, G. Dow, M. Paschke, B. Pfister, further lecturers | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Abstract | The colloquium “Challenges in Plant Sciences” is a core class of the Zurich-Basel Plant Science Center's PhD program and the MSc module. The colloquium introduces participants to the broad spectrum of plant sciences within the network. The course offers the opportunity to approach interdisciplinary topics in the field of plant sciences. | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Learning objective | Objectives of the colloquium are: Introduction to resecent research in all fields of plant sciences Working in interdisciplinary teams on the topics Developing presentation and discussion skills | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Content | The topics encompass integrated knowledge on current plant research, ranging from the molecular level to the ecosystem level, and from basic to applied science while making use of the synergies between the different research groups within the PSC. More information on the content: https://www.plantsciences.uzh.ch/en/teaching/masters/colloquium.html | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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| Environmental Sciences | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Atmosphere and Climate | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Number | Title | Type | ECTS | Hours | Lecturers | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 701-1239-00L | Aerosols I: Physical and Chemical Principles | W | 4 credits | 2V + 1U | M. Gysel Beer, D. Bell, E. Weingartner | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Abstract | Aerosols I deals with basic physical and chemical properties of aerosol particles. The importance of aerosols in the atmosphere and in other fields is discussed. | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Learning objective | Physical and chemical principles: The students... - know the processes and physical laws of aerosol dynamics. - understand the thermodynamics of phase equilibria and chemical equilibria. - know the photo-chemical formation of particulate matter from inorganic and organic precursor gases. Experimental methods: The students... - know the most important chemical and physical measurement instruments. - understand the underlying chemistry and physics. Environmental impacts: The students... - know the major sources of atmospheric aerosols, their chemical composition and key physical properties. - know the most important climate impacts of atmospheric aerosols. are aware of the health impacts of atmospheric aerosols. | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Lecture notes | materiel is distributed during the lecture | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Literature | - Kulkarni, P., Baron, P. A., and Willeke, K.: Aerosol Measurement - Principles, Techniques, and Applications. Wiley, Hoboken, New Jersey, 2011. - Hinds, W. C.: Aerosol Technology: Properties, Behavior, and Measurement of Airborne Particles. John Wiley & Sons, Inc., New York, 1999. - Colbeck I. (ed.) Physical and Chemical Properties of Aerosols, Blackie Academic & Professional, London, 1998. - Seinfeld, J. H. and Pandis, S. N.: Atmospheric Chemistry and Physics: From Air Pollution to Climate Change. Hoboken, John Wiley & Sons, Inc., 2006 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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| 701-1253-00L | Analysis of Climate and Weather Data Does not take place this semester. | W | 3 credits | 2G | C. Frei | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Abstract | An introduction into methods of statistical data analysis in meteorology and climatology. Applications of hypothesis testing, extreme value analysis, evaluation of deterministic and probabilistic predictions, principal component analysis. Participants understand the theoretical concepts and purpose of methods, can apply them independently and know how to interpret results professionally. | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Learning objective | Students understand the theoretical foundations and probabilistic concepts of advanced analysis tools in meteorology and climatology. They can conduct such analyses independently, and they develop an attitude of scrutiny and an awareness of uncertainty when interpreting results. Participants improve skills in understanding technical literature that uses modern statistical data analyses. | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Content | The course introduces several advanced methods of statistical data analysis frequently used in meteorology and climatology. It introduces the thoretical background of the methods, illustrates their application with example datasets, and discusses complications from assumptions and uncertainties. Generally, the course shall empower students to conduct data analysis thoughtfully and to interprete results critically. Topics covered: exploratory methods, hypothesis testing, analysis of climate trends, measuring the skill of deterministic and probabilistic predictions, analysis of extremes, principal component analysis and maximum covariance analysis. The course is divided into lectures and computer workshops. Hands-on experimentation with example data shall encourage students in the practical application of methods and train professional interpretation of results. R (a free software environment for statistical computing) will be used during the workshop. A short introduction into R will be provided during the course. | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Lecture notes | Documentation and supporting material: - slides used during the lecture - excercise sets and solutions - R-packages with software and example datasets for workshop sessions All material is made available via the lecture web-page. | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Literature | For complementary reading: - Wilks D.S., 2011: Statistical Methods in the Atmospheric Science. (3rd edition). Academic Press Inc., Elsevier LTD (Oxford) - Coles S., 2001: An introduction to statistical modeling of extreme values. Springer, London. 208 pp. | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Prerequisites / Notice | Prerequisites: Basics in exploratory data analysis, probability calculus and statistics (incl linear regression) (e.g. Mathematik IV: Statistik (401-0624-00L) and Mathematik VI: Angewandte Statistik für Umweltnaturwissenschaften (701-0105-00L)). Some experience in programming (ideally in R). Some elementary background in atmospheric physics and climatology. | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 701-1235-00L | Cloud Microphysics  Number of participants limited to 16. Priority is given to PhD students majoring in Atmospheric and Climate Sciences, and remaining open spaces will be offered to the following groups: - PhD student Environmental sciences - MSc in Atmospheric and climate science - MSc in Environmental sciences All participants will be on the waiting list at first. Enrollment is possible until September 22nd, 2021. The waiting list is active until October 1st, 2021. All students will be informed on September 16th, if they can participate in the lecture. The lecture takes place if a minimum of 5 students register for it. | W | 4 credits | 2V + 1U | U. Lohmann, N. Shardt | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Abstract | Clouds are a fascinating atmospheric phenomenon central to the hydrological cycle and the Earth`s climate. Interactions between cloud particles can result in precipitation, glaciation or evaporation of the cloud depending on its microstructure and microphysical processes. | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Learning objective | The learning objective of this course is that students understand the formation of clouds and precipitation and can apply learned principles to interpret atmospheric observations of clouds and precipitation. | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Content | see: http://www.iac.ethz.ch/edu/courses/master/modules/cloud-microphysics.html and: https://moodle-app2.let.ethz.ch/course/view.php?id=15424 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Lecture notes | This course will be designed as a reading course in 1-2 small groups of 8 students maximum. It will be based on the textbook below. The students are expected to read chapters of this textbook prior to the class so that open issues, fascinating and/or difficult aspects can be discussed in depth. | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Literature | Lamb and Verlinde: PHYSICS AND CHEMISTRY OF CLOUDS, Cambridge University Press, 2011 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Prerequisites / Notice | Target group: Doctoral and Master students in Atmosphere and Climate | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Competencies |
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| 701-1221-00L | Dynamics of Large-Scale Atmospheric Flow | W | 4 credits | 2V + 1U | H. Wernli, L. Papritz | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Abstract | This lecture course is about the fundamental aspects of the dynamics of extratropical weather systems (quasi-geostropic dynamics, potential vorticity, Rossby waves, baroclinic instability). The fundamental concepts are formally introduced, quantitatively applied and illustrated with examples from the real atmosphere. Exercises (quantitative and qualitative) form an essential part of the course. | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Learning objective | Understanding the dynamics of large-scale atmospheric flow | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Content | Dynamical Meteorology is concerned with the dynamical processes of the earth's atmosphere. The fundamental equations of motion in the atmosphere will be discussed along with the dynamics and interactions of synoptic system - i.e. the low and high pressure systems that determine our weather. The motion of such systems can be understood in terms of quasi-geostrophic theory. The lecture course provides a derivation of the mathematical basis along with some interpretations and applications of the concept. | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Lecture notes | Dynamics of large-scale atmospheric flow | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Literature | - Holton J.R., An introduction to Dynamic Meteorogy. Academic Press, fourth edition 2004, - Pichler H., Dynamik der Atmosphäre, Bibliographisches Institut, 456 pp. 1997 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Prerequisites / Notice | Physics I, II, Environmental Fluid Dynamics | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 701-1251-00L | Land-Climate Dynamics Number of participants limited to 36. Priority is given to the target groups: - Master Environmental Science, - Master Atmospheric and Climate Science and - PhD D-USYS until September 20th,2021. Waiting list will be deleted September 27th, 2021. | W | 3 credits | 2G | S. I. Seneviratne, R. Padrón Flasher | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Abstract | The purpose of this course is to provide fundamental background on the role of land surface processes (vegetation, soil moisture dynamics, land energy and water balances) in the climate system. The course consists of 2 contact hours per week, including lectures, group projects and computer exercises. | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Learning objective | The students can understand the role of land processes and associated feedbacks in the climate system. | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Lecture notes | Powerpoint slides will be made available | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Prerequisites / Notice | Prerequisites: Introductory lectures in atmospheric and climate science Atmospheric physics -> Link and/or Climate systems -> Link | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 701-1237-00L | Solar Ultraviolet Radiation | W | 1 credit | 1V | J. Gröbner, S. Kazantzis | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Abstract | The lecture will introduce the student to the thematic of solar ultraviolet radiation and its effects on the atmosphere and the biosphere, as well as the retrieval of atmospheric trace gases. The lecture will also cover the modeling and the measurement of solar ultraviolet radiation. | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Learning objective | - Effects of solar UV radiation on the Atmosphere, Humans, and the biosphere in general. - Measurements of solar UV radiation (ground-based, satellite-based). - Introduction to radiative transfer modelling, specifically for UV radiation. - Methods to retrieve atmospheric constituents such as atmospheric ozone and aerosols from solar radiation measurements. - Modelling of Solar UV radiation using satellite-based datasets. | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Content | The Lecture is composed of the following chapters: 1) Introduction and Motivation on the impact of solar UV radiation on the atmosphere, humans, and the biosphere in general. 2) Historical review of the scientific research. 3) Variability of solar UV radiation from a solar perspective (solar cycle, solar UV variability, impact on the higher atmosphere). 4) Understanding the variability of ground-based solar UV radiation with respect to the parameters influencing the transfer of solar UV radiation through the atmosphere. 5) Introduction to radiative transfer modeling, with emphasis on solar UV radiation. 6) Instruments to measure solar UV radiation 7) Retrieval of atmospheric trace gases from solar radiation measurements. Specific examples for retrieving atmospheric ozone, aerosols, and surface albedo. 8) Solar UV modelling over Europe at high spatial resolution using satellite-based datasets. | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Lecture notes | Lecture notes are based on the slides presented during the individual lectures. They will be handed out prior to the course via Moddle. | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Literature | An Introduction to Atmospheric Radiation, K.N. Liou, ISBN 978-0-12-451451-5 Radiative transfer by S. Chandrasekhar, Solar ultraviolet Radiation, Eds. C. Zerefos, A. Bais, ISBN 3-540-62711-1 The Chemistry and Physics of Stratospheric Ozone, A. Dessler, ISBN 0-12-212051-5 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Prerequisites / Notice | -Basic mathematical concepts such as Integration of spectral quantities. - Familiar with a mathematical package such as R, Matlab, Python is advantageous for the calculation of the exercises. | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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| 701-1233-00L | Stratospheric Chemistry | W | 4 credits | 2V + 1U | T. Peter, G. Chiodo | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Abstract | The lecture gives an overview on the manifold reactions which occur in the gas phase, in stratospheric aerosol droplets and in polar cloud particles. The focus is on the chemistry of stratospheric ozone and its influence through natural and anthropogenic effects, especially the ozone depletion caused by FCKW in mid-latitude and polar regions as well as the coupling with the greenhouse effect. | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Learning objective | The students will understand the gas phase reactions in the stratosphere as well as reactions and processes in aerosol droplets and polar stratospheric clouds. The students will understand the most important aspects of stratospheric dynamics and the greenhouse gas effect in troposphere and stratosphere. The students will also aquire a good understanding of the coupling between stratospheric ozone and climate change. Furthermore, they will practise to explain fundamental concepts in stratospheric chemistry by means of scientific paper presentations. | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Content | Short presentation of thermodynamical and kinetic basics of chemical reactions: bi- and termolecular reactions, photo-dissociation. Introduction to the chemical family concept: active species, their source gases and reservoir gases. Detailed treatment of the pure oxygen family (odd oxygen) according to the Chapman chemistry. Radical reactions of the oxygen species with nitric oxide, active halogens (chlorine and bromine) and odd hydrogen. Ozone depletion cycles. Methane depletion and ozone production in the lower stratosphere (photo-smog reactions). Heterogeneous chemistry on the background aerosol and its significance for heavy air traffic. Chemistry and dynamics of the ozone hole: Formation of polar stratospheric clouds and chloride activation. | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Lecture notes | Documents are provided in the contact hours. | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Literature | - Basseur, G. und S. Solomon, Aeronomy of the Middle Atmosphere, Kluwer Academic Publishers, 3rd Rev edition (December 30, 2005). - John H. Seinfeld and Spyros N. Pandis, Atmospheric Chemistry and Physics: From Air Pollution to Climate Change, Wiley, New York, 1998. - WMO, Scientific Assessment of Ozone Depletion: 2014, Report No. 55, Geneva, 2015. | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Prerequisites / Notice | Prerequisites: Basics in physical chemistry are required and an overview equivalent to the bachelor course in atmospheric chemistry (lecture 701-0471-01) is expected. 701-1233-00 V starts in the first week of the semester. The exercises 701-1233-00 U will start only in the 2nd week of the semester. | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 701-1211-01L | Master's Seminar: Atmosphere and Climate 1 Target groups only: Master Environmental Science Master Atmospheric and Climate Science | W | 3 credits | 2S | H. Joos, R. Knutti, A. Merrifield Könz, M. A. Wüest | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Abstract | In this seminar, the process of writing a scientific proposal will be introduced. The essential elements of a proposal, including the peer review process, will be outlined and class exercises will train scientific writing skills. Knowledge exchange between class participants is promoted through the preparation of a master thesis proposal and evaluation of each other's work. | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Learning objective | Training scientific writing skills. | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Content | In this seminar, the process of writing a scientific proposal will be introduced. The essential elements of a proposal, including the peer review process, will be outlined and class exercises will train scientific writing skills. Knowledge exchange between class participants is promoted through the preparation of a master thesis proposal and evaluation of each other's work. | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Prerequisites / Notice | Attendance is mandatory. | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 651-4095-01L | Colloquium Atmosphere and Climate 1 | W | 1 credit | 1K | H. Joos, H. Wernli, D. N. Bresch, D. Domeisen, N. Gruber, R. Knutti, U. Lohmann, T. Peter, C. Schär, S. Schemm, S. I. Seneviratne, M. Wild | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Abstract | The colloquium is a series of scientific talks by prominent invited speakers assembling interested students and researchers from around Zürich. Students take part of the scientific discussions. | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Learning objective | The students are exposed to different atmospheric science topics and learn how to take part in scientific discussions. | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Biogeochemistry and Pollutant Dynamics | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Number | Title | Type | ECTS | Hours | Lecturers | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 701-1341-00L | Water Resources and Drinking Water | W | 3 credits | 2G | S. Hug, M. Berg, F. Hammes, U. von Gunten | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Abstract | The course covers qualitative (chemistry and microbiology) and quantitative aspects of drinking water from the resource to the tap. Natural processes, anthropogenic pollution, legislation of groundwater and surface water and of drinking water as well as water treatment will be discussed for industrialized and developing countries. | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Learning objective | The goal of this lecture is to give an overview over the whole path of drinking water from the source to the tap and understand the involved physical, chemical and biological processes which determine the drinking water quality. | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Content | The course covers qualitative (chemistry and microbiology) and quantitative aspects of drinking water from the resource to the tap. The various water resources, particularly groundwater and surface water, are discussed as part of the natural water cycle influenced by anthropogenic activities such as agriculture, industry, urban water systems. Furthermore legislation related to water resources and drinking water will be discussed. The lecture is focused on industrialized countries, but also addresses global water issues and problems in the developing world. Finally unit processes for drinking water treatment (filtration, adsorption, oxidation, disinfection etc.) will be presented and discussed. | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Lecture notes | Handouts will be distributed | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Literature | Will be mentioned in handouts | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 701-1313-00L | Isotopes and Biomarkers in Biogeochemistry | W | 3 credits | 2G | C. Schubert, R. Kipfer | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Abstract | The course introduces the scientific concepts and typical applications of tracers in biogeochemistry. The course covers stable and radioactive isotopes, geochemical tracers and biomarkers and their application in biogeochemical processes as well as regional and global cycles. The course provides essential theoretical background for the lab course "Isotopic and Organic Tracers Laboratory". | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Learning objective | The course aims at understanding the fractionation of stable isotopes in biogeochemical processes. Students learn to know the origin and decay modes of relevant radiogenic isotopes. They discover the spectrum of possible geochemical tracers and biomarkers, their potential and limitations and get familiar with important applications | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Content | Geogenic and cosmogenic radionuclides (sources, decay chains); stable isotopes in biogeochemistry (nataural abundance, fractionation); geochemical tracers for processes such as erosion, productivity, redox fronts; biomarkers for specific microbial processes. | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Lecture notes | handouts will be provided for every chapter | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Literature | A list of relevant books and papers will be provided | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Prerequisites / Notice | Students should have a basic knowledge of biogeochemical processes (BSc course on Biogeochemical processes in aquatic systems or equivalent) | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 701-1315-00L | Biogeochemistry of Trace Elements | W | 3 credits | 2G | A. Voegelin, S. Bouchet, L. Winkel | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Abstract | The course addresses the biogeochemical classification and behavior of trace elements, including key processes driving the cycling of important trace elements in aquatic and terrestrial environments and the coupling of abiotic and biotic transformation processes of trace elements. Examples of the role of trace elements in natural or engineered systems will be presented and discussed in the course. | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Learning objective | The students are familiar with the chemical characteristics, the environmental behavior and fate, and the biogeochemical reactivity of different groups of trace elements. They are able to apply their knowledge on the interaction of trace elements with geosphere components and on abiotic and biotic transformation processes of trace elements to discuss and evaluate the behavior and impact of trace elements in aquatic and terrestrial systems. | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Content | (i) Definition, importance and biogeochemical classification of trace elements. (ii) Key biogeochemical processes controlling the cycling of different trace elements (base metals, redox-sensitive and chalcophile elements, volatile trace elements) in natural and engineered environments. (iii) Abiotic and biotic processes that determine the environmental fate and impact of selected trace elements. | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Lecture notes | Selected handouts (lecture notes, literature, exercises) will be distributed during the course. | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Prerequisites / Notice | Students are expected to be familiar with the basic concepts of aquatic and soil chemistry covered in the respective classes at the bachelor level (soil mineralogy, soil organic matter, acid-base and redox reactions, complexation and sorption reactions, precipitation/dissolution reactions, thermodynamics, kinetics, carbonate buffer system). The lecture 701-1315-00L Biogeochemistry of Trace Elements is a prerequisite for attending the laboratory course 701-1331-00L Trace Elements Laboratory, or students must be concurrently enrolled in 701-1315-00L Biogeochemistry of Trace Elements in the same semester. | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 701-1346-00L | Carbon Mitigation Number of participants limited to 100 Priority is given to the target groups: Bachelor and Master Environmental Sciences and PHD Environmental Sciences until September 21st,2021. Waiting list will be deleted October 1st, 2021. | W | 3 credits | 2G | N. Gruber | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Abstract | Future climate change can only kept within reasonable bounds when CO2 emissions are drastically reduced. In this course, we will discuss a portfolio of options involving the alteration of natural carbon sinks and carbon sequestration. The course includes introductory lectures, presentations from guest speakers from industry and the public sector, and final presentations by the students. | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Learning objective | The goal of this course is to investigate, as a group, a particular set of carbon mitigation/sequestration options and to evaluate their potential, their cost, and their consequences. | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Content | From the large number of carbon sequestration/mitigation options, a few options will be selected and then investigated in detail by the students. The results of this research will then be presented to the other students, the involved faculty, and discussed in detail by the whole group. | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Lecture notes | None | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Literature | Will be identified based on the chosen topic. | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Prerequisites / Notice | Exam: No final exam. Pass/No-Pass is assigned based on the quality of the presentation and ensuing discussion. | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 860-0012-00L | Cooperation and Conflict Over International Water Resources Number of participants limited to 40. Priority for Science, Technology, and Policy MSc. This is a research seminar at the Master level. PhD students are also welcome. | W | 3 credits | 2S | B. Wehrli, T. Bernauer, E. Calamita, T. U. Siegfried | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Abstract | This seminar focuses on the technical, economic, and political challenges of dealing with water allocation and pollution problems in large international river systems. It examines ways and means through which such challenges are addressed, and when and why international efforts in this respect succeed or fail. | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Learning objective | Ability to (1) understand the causes and consequences of water scarcity and water pollution problems in large international river systems; (2) understand ways and means of addressing such water challenges; and (3) analyse when and why international efforts in this respect succeed or fail. | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Content | Based on lectures and discussion of scientific papers and reports, students acquire basic knowledge on contentious issues in managing international water resources, on the determinants of cooperation and conflict over international water issues, and on ways and means of mitigating conflict and promoting cooperation. Students will then, in small teams coached by the instructors, carry out research on a case of their choice (i.e. an international river basin where riparian countries are trying to find solutions to water allocation and/or water quality problems associated with a large dam project). They will write a brief paper and present their findings towards the end of the semester. | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Lecture notes | Slides and reading materials will be distributed electronically. | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Literature | The UN World Water Development Reports provide a broad overview of the topic: http://www.unesco.org/new/en/natural-sciences/environment/water/wwap/ | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Prerequisites / Notice | The course is open to Master and PhD students from any area of ETH. ISTP students who take this course should also register for the course 860-0012-01L - Cooperation and conflict over international water resources; In-depth case study. | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Ecology and Evolution | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Number | Title | Type | ECTS | Hours | Lecturers | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 701-0263-01L | Seminar in Evolutionary Ecology of Infectious Diseases | W | 3 credits | 2G | R. R. Regös, S. Bonhoeffer | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Abstract | Students of this course will discuss current topics from the field of infectious disease biology. From a list of publications, each student chooses some themes that he/she is going to explain and discuss with all other participants and under supervision. The actual topics will change from year to year corresponding to the progress and new results occuring in the field. | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Learning objective | This is an advanced course that will require significant student participation. Students will learn how to evaluate and present scientific literature and trace the development of ideas related to understanding the ecology and evolutionary biology of infectious diseases. | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Content | A core set of ~10 classic publications encompassing unifying themes in infectious disease ecology and evolution, such as virulence, resistance, metapopulations, networks, and competition will be presented and discussed. Pathogens will include bacteria, viruses and fungi. Hosts will include animals, plants and humans. | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Lecture notes | Publications and class notes can be downloaded from a web page announced during the lecture. | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Literature | Papers will be assigned and downloaded from a web page announced during the lecture. | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 701-1453-00L | Ecological Assessment and Evaluation | W | 3 credits | 3G | F. Knaus | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Abstract | The course provides methods and tools for ecological evaluations dealing with nature conservation or landscape planning. It covers census methods, ecological criteria, indicators, indices and critically appraises objectivity and accuracy of the available methods, tools and procedures. Birds and plants are used as main example guiding through different case studies. | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Learning objective | Students will be able to: 1) critically consider biological data books and local, regional, and national inventories; 2) evaluate the validity of ecological criteria used in decision making processes; 3) critically appraise the handling of ecological data and criteria used in the process of evaluation 4) perform an ecological evaluation project from the field survey up to the descision making and planning. | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Lecture notes | Powerpoint slides are available on the webpage. Additional documents are handed out as copies. | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Literature | Basic literature and references are listed on the webpage. | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Prerequisites / Notice | The course structure changes between lecture parts, seminars and discussions. The didactic atmosphere is intended as working group. Suggested prerequisites for attending this course are skills and knowledge equivalent to those taught in the following ETH courses: - Pflanzen- und Vegetationsökologie - Systematische Botanik - Raum- und Regionalentwicklung - Naturschutz und Naturschutzbiologie | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 701-1409-00L | Research Seminar: Ecological Genetics Minimum number of participants is 5. | W | 2 credits | 1S | S. Fior | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Abstract | In this research seminar we will critically discuss recent publications on current topics in Ecological Genetics. | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Learning objective | It is our aim that participants gain insight into current research topics and approaches in Ecological Genetics and learn to critically assess and appreciate scientific publications in this field. | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Lecture notes | none | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Literature | will be distributed | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Prerequisites / Notice | Active and regular participation in the discussions, together with the presentation of a scientific paper are required to successfully pass this course. It is strongly recommended that participants have in advance successfully participated in the course Evolutionary Genetics (701-2413-00) or Ecological Genetics (701-1413-01). | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 701-1425-01L | Genetic Diversity: Techniques Number of participants limited to 8. Waiting list will be deleted November 1st, 2021. No enrollment possible after October 18th, 2021. | W | 2 credits | 4P | A. M. Minder Pfyl | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Abstract | This course provides training for advanced students (master, doctoral or post-doctoral level) in how to measure and collect genetic diversity data from populations, experiments, field and laboratory. Different DNA/RNA extraction protocols, quality control measurements, SNP genotyping and gene expression techniques will be addressed. | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Learning objective | To learn and improve on standard and modern methods of genetic data collection. Examples are: use of pyrosequencing, expression analysis, SNP-typing, next-generation sequencing etc. A course for practicioners. | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Content | After an introduction (one afternoon), students will have 3 weeks to work independently in groups of two through different protocols. At the end the whole class meets for another afternoon to present the techniques/results and to discuss the advantages and disadvantages of the different techniques. Techniques adressed are: RNA/DNA extractions and quality control, SNP genotyping, pyrosequencing, real-time qPCR. | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Lecture notes | Material will be handed out in the course. | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Literature | Material will be handed out in the course. | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Prerequisites / Notice | Two afternoons are hold in the class. The lab work will be done from the students according to their timetable, but has to be finished after 3 weeks. Effort is roughly 1-2 days per week, depending on the skills of the student. | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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