Search result: Catalogue data in Autumn Semester 2021
Environmental Sciences Master  | ||||||
 Major in Biogeochemistry and Pollutant Dynamics | ||||||
| Biogeochemical Processes | ||||||
| Number | Title | Type | ECTS | Hours | Lecturers | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 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. | |||||
| 701-1316-00L | Physical Transport Processes in the Natural Environment | W | 3 credits | 2G | J. W. Kirchner | |
| Abstract | Fluid flows transport all manner of biologically important gases, nutrients, toxins, contaminants, spores and seeds, as well as a wide range of organisms themselves. This course explores the physics of fluids in the natural environment, with emphasis on the transport, dispersion, and mixing of solutes and entrained particles, and their implications for biological and biogeochemical processes. | |||||
| Learning objective | Students will learn key concepts of fluid mechanics and how to apply them to environmental problems. Weekly exercises based on real-world data will develop core skills in analysis, interpretation, and problem-solving. | |||||
| Content | dimensional analysis, similarity, and scaling solute transport in laminar and turbulent flows transport and dispersion in porous media transport of sediment (and adsorbed contaminants) by air and water anomalous dispersion | |||||
| Lecture notes | The course is under development. Lecture materials will be distributed as they become available. | |||||
| Applications | ||||||
| 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 | |||||
| 701-1346-00L | 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. | |||||
| 701-1351-00L | Nanomaterials in the Environment | W | 3 credits | 2G | B. Nowack, T. Bucheli, D. Mitrano | |
| Abstract | The lecture provides an overview on the behavior and effects of engineered nanomaterials in the environment. The course will cover definitions, analysis, fate in technical and natural systems, effects (nano-ecotoxicology) and environmental risk assessment of nanomaterials. In addition, microplastics as an additional particulate contaminant will also be covered. | |||||
| Learning objective | - Successful application of knowledge gained in the traditional disciplines of environmental sciences (e.g. biogeochemistry, environmental chemistry) to elucidate nanomaterial fate and behavior in the environment - Identify key parameters of nanomaterials that potentially influence their environmental fate and behavior - Get acquainted with the most common analytical tools for the quantification of nanomaterials in the environment - Critical assessment of current state of research in this juvenile field, including the sometimes controversial literature data | |||||
| Content | Topics - Definitions; nano-effects; engineered, natural and incidental nanoparticles - Sources and release; Material flow modeling - Analysis in environmental samples - Fate in technical systems: water treatment, waste incineration - Fate in the environment: water and soil - Effects: nano-ecotoxicology - Environmental risk assessment - Life cycle assessment - Microplastics | |||||
| Lecture notes | Handouts will be provided | |||||
| Literature | will be provided during lecture | |||||
| 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. | |||||
| Methods and Tools: Lab Courses | ||||||
| Number | Title | Type | ECTS | Hours | Lecturers | |
| 701-1331-00L | Biogeochemistry of Trace Elements Laboratory Number of participants limited to 16. Priority is given to the target groups: Master Environmental Science until October 15th,2021. Waiting list will be deleted October 22nd, 2021. | W | 3 credits | 4P | L. K. Thomas Arrigo, K. Barmettler | |
| Abstract | The course offers a practical introduction into the investigation of the biogeochemistry of trace elements. Laboratory experiments are performed to study a selected environmental process. Advanced techniques for the analysis of total element contents and element speciation are used. The experimental findings are interpreted and discussed in their environmental context. | |||||
| Learning objective | The objective of this course, is to offer students a practical introduction into the investigation of the biogeochemistry of trace elements. During the course, students will become familiar with some of the key experimental approaches typically used in the investigation of the biogeochemistry of trace elements in the laboratory. In addition, students will learn to use different advanced analytical techniques to measure the total content and the speciation of trace elements in both liquid and solid samples. The students will interpret and discuss their experimental findings in the context of the studied environmental system. | |||||
| Content | Laboratory experiments are designed and performed to study the interplay of various biogeochemical processes in a specific environmental system. Moreover, the effect of these processes on the biogeochemical cycling of trace elements in the environment will be considered. Advanced techniques for the analysis of total element contents and element speciation are used. The experimental findings are interpreted and discussed in the context of the the environmental system under investigation. | |||||
| Lecture notes | Selected handouts will be distributed during the course. | |||||
| Literature | All neccessary literature will be uploaded to the ILIAS repository during the course. | |||||
| Prerequisites / Notice | Pre- or corequisite: Lecture “Biogeochemistry of Trace Elements”. | |||||
| 701-1333-00L | Isotopes and Biomarkers in Biogeochemistry Laboratory Number of participants limited to 14. Waiting list will be deleted September 20th, 2021. No enrollment possible after September 21st, 2021. | W | 3 credits | 4P | C. Schubert, R. Kipfer | |
| Abstract | This course will illustrate how different tracers and isotopes are used in natural systems. Here especially the processes (transformation, timescales) that take place and can be revealed by tracers/isotopes will be demonstrated but also flux rates will be calculated using different tracers. | |||||
| Learning objective | Students know how to use tracers/isotopes to investigate/understand ecosystems They will understand the methods and analytical devices related to tracer/isotope work Have a feeling for timescales on which natural processes occur Students will be able to apply different sampling techniques in aquatic sciences | |||||
| Content | Basics: O,H isotopes as tracers for mixing in aquatic systems Carbon isotopes as tracer for methane oxidation 210Pb, 137Cs as a tracer for sedimentation rate/mixing SF6, Neon, He as tracers for exchange processes at the air/water interface Case assessment: Sampling of a Swiss lake (Rotsee) Sampling techniques for different elements Sample preparation for different techniques Measurements at isotope mass spectrometer/gamma counter Interpretation of results from the special sampling campaign and in a broader context | |||||
| 701-1337-00L | Forest Soils in a Changing Environment | W | 3 credits | 6P | F. Hagedorn, P. F. Schleppi | |
| Abstract | The students are measuring carbon and nutrient fluxes in forest soils under a changing climate and land-use. In laboratory and field experiments, they are manipulating climatic conditions (temperature, drought) and quantify the response of C and N fluxes in soils, and plant-soil interactions. The results will be interpreted and discussed in the context of changes in climate and land-use. | |||||
| Learning objective | The students get first-hand experience with field and laboratory methods to measure carbon and nutrient fluxes and the application of stable isotope techniques. They shall learn about physico-chemical properties of Swiss forest soils, how these properties determine the ecological functions of soils and how soils respond to changes in climate and land-use. Finally the students shall interpret, discuss and present their experimental data. | |||||
| Content | 1. Introduction to the ecological functions of Swiss forest soils 2. Measurement of soil CO2 efflux, carbon and nutrient leaching in forest and grassland soils 3. Sampling and preparation of litter and soil samples from selected soil profiles under different land-uses 4. Setting-up laboratory experiments in microcosms. Measurement of soil respiration and leaching of carbon, nutrients and/or contaminants in climate chambers under different environmental conditions. 5. Analyses of litter, soil, and soil water for selected physical and chemical properties. 6. Learning and applying stable isotope techniques for quantifying turnover of soil carbon and their microbial communities. 7. Interpretation and final presentation of data | |||||
| Lecture notes | A manual will be distributed during the course. | |||||
| Literature | Selected publications will be distributed during the course. | |||||
| 701-1339-00L | Soil Solids Laboratory Number of participants limited to 12. Priority is given to the target groups: Master Environmental Science until October 15th,2021. Waiting list will be deleted September 23rd, 2021. | W | 3 credits | 4G | M. Plötze | |
| Abstract | The main part of the course is the investigation of real samples of soils/sediments in the lab working in groups. A brief theoretical introduction into the overall principle and the meaning of physical, mineralogical and chemical parameters of soils and sediments and into each analytical method for their investigation will be given in advance. | |||||
| Learning objective | Upon successful completion of this course students are able to: - describe structural, mineralogical and chemical properties of the inorganic solid part of soils and sediments, - propose and apply different advanced methods and techniques to measure these properties, - critically assess the data and explain the relationships between them, - communicate the results in a scientific la report. | |||||
| Content | Basic introduction to mineralogy and texture of soils Analytical techniques Practical exercises in sample preparation Measurement and evaluation of the data: - physical parameters (grain size distribution, surface, densities, porosity, (micro)structur) - mineralogical/geochemical parameters (quantitative mineralogical composition, thermal analysis, cation exchange etc.) | |||||
| Lecture notes | Selected handouts will be distributed during the course. | |||||
| Literature | Jasmund, K. , Lagaly, G. 1993. Tonminerale und Tone. Steinkopff: Darmstadt. Scheffer, F. 2002. Lehrbuch der Bodenkunde / Scheffer/Schachtschabel. Spektrum: Heidelberg. 15. Aufl. Dixon, J.B., Weed, S.B. 1989. Minerals in Soil Environments. SSSA Book Series: 1, 2nd Edition. Sparks, D.L. 1996: Chemical Methods. SSSA Book Series 5, Part 3. Dane, J.H., Topp, G.C. 2002: Physical Methods. SSSA Book Series 5, Part 4. Ulery, A.L. & Drees, L.R. 2008: Mineralogical Methods. SSSA Book Series 5, Part 5. | |||||
| Prerequisites / Notice | In order to allow for effective lab work not more than 12 students can join the course. Useful preparatory courses are: "Soil Chemistry", "“Clays in Geotechnics"”, and "“X-ray powder diffraction”". | |||||
| 701-1673-00L | Environmental Measurement Laboratory Number of participants limited to 24. Waiting list will be deleted September 24th, 2021. | W | 5 credits | 4G | P. U. Lehmann Grunder, A. Carminati | |
| Abstract | Measurements are the sole judge of scientific truth and provide access to unpredictable information, enabling the characterization and monitoring of complex terrestrial systems. Based on lectures and field- and laboratory training, the students learn to apply modern methods to determine forest inventory parameters and to measure subsurface properties and processes. | |||||
| Learning objective | The students will be able to: - explain measurement principles that are used for characterization of landscapes and terrestrial systems - select appropriate measurement methods and sampling design to quantify key variables and processes above ground and in the subsurface - deploy sensors in the field - interpret collected laboratory and field data and report main conclusions deduced from measurements | |||||
| Content | Week 1: Plant-Soil interactions – short introduction before sensor demonstration and installation in forest lab; Scholander pressure bomb (suction in leaves); LiCOR soil chamber Week 2: Lecture on Measurement Science, overview of water content and water potential sensors; data logging and data logger programming; tests in the lab Week 3: Introduction on soil physics; Field installation of sensors and field experiment; data collection for a few days; solar panel Week 4: Soil sampling in field lab including geoprobe measurements Week 5: Introduction on forest lab - Soil sampling in forest lab; root length density; Week 6: Lecture on geophysical methods on Subsurface Characterization: Basic principles of ERT, GPR, and EM; simple lab tests on effective resistivity Week 7: Demonstration and application of geophysical methods in the field Week 8: Lecture on plant soil relationship; connecting information below and above ground – data analysis Weeks 9 and 10: Forest characterization/ inventory: Principles of LiDAR; structures and features of the tree crowns, size/volume of the leaf area tree positions and diameters at breast height Weeks 11 and 12: Eddy covariance methods -Principles for field measurement of water vapor, carbon dioxide, and energy exchange between terrestrial surfaces and the atmosphere; Analysis of measured time series to determine evaporation rate and CO2-fluxes Week 13: Swiss Soil Monitoring networks – Monitoring of soil water content and potential; climate change and droughts Week 14: Global data – Global modeling and data interpretation; SoilGrids and OpenLandMap; exercises on Budyko analysis | |||||
| Literature | Lecture material will be online for registered students using moodle | |||||
| Prerequisites / Notice | The details of the schedule will be optimized based on the number of students; some blocks of the course will be offered as well to students of Environmental Engineering | |||||
| Semester Paper and Seminar | ||||||
| Number | Title | Type | ECTS | Hours | Lecturers | |
| 701-1302-00L | Term Paper 2: Seminar Prerequisite: Term Paper 1: Writing (701-1303-00L). Only for Environmental Sciences MSc and Science, Technology and Policy MSc. | O | 2 credits | 1S | L. Winkel, M. Ackermann, N. Casacuberta Arola, K. Deiner, N. Gruber, J. Hering, R. Kipfer, R. Kretzschmar, K. McNeill, D. Mitrano, A. N'Guyen van Chinh, M. Sander, M. H. Schroth, C. Schubert | |
| Abstract | This class is the 2nd part of a series and participation is conditional on the successful completion of "Term Paper 1: Writing". The results from the term paper written during the previous term are presented to the other students and advisors and discussed with the audience. | |||||
| Learning objective | The goal of the term paper seminars is to train the student's ability to communicate (scientific) results to a wider audience and the ability to respond to questions and comments. | |||||
| Content | Each student presents the results of their term paper to fellow students and advisors and responds to questions and comments from the audience. | |||||
| Lecture notes | Guidelines and supplementary material are distributed on the Moodle platform. | |||||
| Prerequisites / Notice | There is no final exam. Grade is assigned based on the quality of the presentation and ensuing discussion. To obtain the credits, it is mandatory to attend at least 60% of all seminar dates offered in the fall and spring semester. Active participation in discussion and feedback rounds is expected. | |||||
| 701-1303-00L | Term Paper 1: Writing Only for Environmental Sciences MSc and Science, Technology and Policy MSc. | O | 5 credits | 6A | L. Winkel, M. Ackermann, N. Casacuberta Arola, K. Deiner, N. Gruber, J. Hering, R. Kipfer, R. Kretzschmar, M. Lever, K. McNeill, D. Mitrano, A. N'Guyen van Chinh, M. Sander, M. H. Schroth, C. Schubert | |
| Abstract | The ability to critically evaluate original (scientific) literature and to summarise the information in a succinct manner is an important skill for any student. This course aims to practice this ability, requiring each student to write a term paper of scientific quality on a topic of relevance for research in the areas of biogeochemistry and pollutant dynamics. | |||||
| Learning objective | The goal of the term paper is to train the student's ability to critically evaluate scientific literature and to summarise the findings concisely in a paper addressing a research question. At the end of the course, students will be able to: - narrow down a research question. - identify relevant literature to address the research question. - concisely summarise and critically evaluate their findings. - formulate key outstanding questions. | |||||
| Content | Each student is expected to write a paper with a length of approximately 15-20 pages. The students can choose from a list of topics prepared by the tutors, but the final topic will be determined based on a balance of choice and availability. The students will be guided and advised by their tutors throughout the term. The paper itself should contain the following elements: - Motivation and context of the given topic (25%) - Concise presentation and critical evaluation of the state of the science (50%) - Identification of open questions and perhaps opportunities for further research (25%) In addition, the accurate use of citations, attribution of ideas, and the judicious use of figures, tables, equations and references are critical components of a successful paper. Specialised knowledge is not expected, nor required; neither is new research. | |||||
| Lecture notes | Guidelines and supplementary material are distributed on the Moodle platform. | |||||
| Literature | Original scientific literature will be identified based on the chosen topic. | |||||
| Prerequisites / Notice | Please enrol latest until the first week of the semester. Contact termpaper(at)env.ethz.ch if you don't yet have access to MyStudies. The term paper course is primarily aimed at master students majoring in biogeochemistry & pollutant dynamics and ISTP students with a solid background in natural sciences and a strong interest in biogeochemistry & pollutant dynamics. Each student submits a term paper that will be reviewed by one fellow student and one faculty. The submission of the term paper and a written review of another student's term paper are a condition for obtaining the credit points. There is no final exam. The grade is assigned based on the quality of the term paper and the submitted review as well as on the presentation in the following term. Results from the term paper will be presented to fellow students and involved faculty in the following semester ("Term Paper 2: Seminar"). | |||||
| Electives | ||||||
| Number | Title | Type | ECTS | Hours | Lecturers | |
| 701-3001-00L | Environmental Systems Data Science | W | 3 credits | 2G | L. Pellissier, J. Payne, B. Stocker | |
| Abstract | Students are introduced to a typical data science workflow using various examples from environmental systems. They learn common methods and key aspects for each step through practical application. The course enables students to plan their own data science project in their specialization and to acquire more domain-specific methods independently or in further courses. | |||||
| Learning objective | The students are able to ● frame a data science problem and build a hypothesis ● describe the steps of a typical data science project workflow ● conduct selected steps of a workflow on specifically prepared datasets, with a focus on choosing, fitting and evaluating appropriate algorithms and models ● critically think about the limits and implications of a method ● visualise data and results throughout the workflow ● access online resources to keep up with the latest data science methodology and deepen their understanding | |||||
| Content | ● The data science workflow ● Access and handle (large) datasets ● Prepare and clean data ● Analysis: data exploratory steps ● Analysis: machine learning and computational methods ● Evaluate results and analyse uncertainty ● Visualisation and communication | |||||
| Prerequisites / Notice | 252-0840-02L Anwendungsnahes Programmieren mit Python 401-0624-00L Mathematik IV: Statistik 401-6215-00L Using R for Data Analysis and Graphics (Part I) 401-6217-00L Using R for Data Analysis and Graphics (Part II) 701-0105-00L Mathematik VI: Angewandte Statistik für Umweltnaturwissenschaften | |||||
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