Job Opportunity: Academic Editor / Science Communication Specialist
The Professorship of Computational Mechanics of Building Materials at ETH Zurich is seeking a motivated and skilled Academic Editor / Science Communication Specialist to enhance research communication. Our research focuses on the fundamental mechanisms governing failure in materials and structures, utilizing theoretical modeling, advanced simulations, and tailored experiments. We explore various areas, including soft material fracture, granular mechanics, additive manufacturing, and architected materials, creating a highly interdisciplinary environment that integrates materials science, mechanics, and applied physics. We are looking for a dedicated professional to develop, support, and manage our communication activities.
Role Overview
As the Academic Editor / Science Communication Specialist, you will collaborate closely with the professor and researchers to develop and manage external communication activities. Your responsibilities will include:
- Advising on the preparation of scientific manuscripts, grant proposals, and presentations, ensuring clarity, structure, and accessibility.
- Maintaining consistent and high-quality external communication, including managing the professorship’s presence on social media to enhance visibility and engagement.
- Developing communication resources such as templates, writing guidelines, and visuals.
- Coordinating with the communications office of the Department of Civil, Environmental and Geomatic Engineering (D-BAUG) and ETH Corporate Communications to align with institutional standards.
The working language is English.
Position Details
This is a part-time position (40–60%) initially limited to one year, with the possibility of extension. The starting date is as soon as possible, but we are flexible.
Qualifications
- A university degree (PhD or Master’s) in natural sciences, engineering, or a related discipline.
- Ideally, several years of experience in academic editing and science communication.
- Excellent written and spoken English skills, with the ability to clearly and accessibly communicate complex scientific concepts.
- Strong organizational skills and attention to detail, with a structured and independent working style.
- Familiarity with scientific publishing and research funding processes.
- Experience with social media platforms and digital tools for science communication.
- Good command of common tools for text and presentation creation (e.g., Word, PowerPoint, Adobe Illustrator, LaTeX).
- A collaborative and service-oriented mindset, with the ability to work closely with researchers and contribute to a positive team culture.
What We Offer
- An inspiring, collaborative, and international academic environment at one of the world’s leading universities.
- Close collaboration with researchers engaged in cutting-edge interdisciplinary projects to increase the visibility and impact of their work.
- Flexibility in working hours and the possibility of hybrid work arrangements.
- Support for personal and professional development through a wide range of training opportunities and internal networks.
- An open, inclusive, and respectful culture that values initiative and thoughtful communication.
Apply online using the form below. Please note that only applications matching the job profile will be considered.
Further Information
For more information about the Professorship, please visit our website. Questions regarding the position can be directed to Prof. Dr. David Kammer via email at dkammer@ethz.ch (no applications).
Please ensure that your application includes the following documents:
- Letter of motivation
- CV
- Work samples (e.g., writing samples, edited texts, presentation materials, or communication products)
- Employment reference letters (Arbeitszeugnisse)
- Contact details of at least one reference