Doctoral Researcher / Doctoral Researcheress in Sustainability Assessment for Evaluating Future Global Food Systems

Doctoral Researcher in Sustainability Assessment for Evaluating Future Global Food Systems

100%, Zurich, Fixed-term

The ETH Sustainable Food Processing Group utilizes innovative sustainability assessment techniques and emerging food system approaches to address fundamental challenges in food science and society, including the protein transition and food security.

The project aims to enhance and implement sustainability assessment methods to support transformations in future global food systems. By incorporating future projections, it will identify improvement potentials in key value chains across various geographical contexts. This work will embrace an interdisciplinary approach through close collaboration with other research groups.

Job Description

We are looking for a highly motivated candidate to join our project focused on assessing the current status and future scenarios of sustainability within global food systems, considering nutrition, environmental, economic, and social dimensions.

Profile

The successful candidate must hold a:

• Master's degree in Sustainability Sciences, Environmental Engineering, Data/Computer Sciences, Bioscience Engineering, or a closely related field
• Excellent proficiency in spoken and written English

In addition, the candidate should possess:

• Strong academic qualifications, exceptional writing skills, self-motivation, and the ability to excel in a fast-paced, interdisciplinary environment
• Proficiency in statistical analysis, computer programming, and big data handling (essential)
• Experience in quantitative sustainability assessment such as life cycle assessment (essential), mathematical modeling of environmental systems (a plus), and planetary boundaries (a plus)
• Documented work in food system sustainability, bioeconomy, LCA/LCSA, planetary boundaries, or data science programming (Python, R) (a strong plus)
• A high level of curiosity, openness to new ideas, effective teamwork, and strong communication skills
• Interest in advancing sustainability science within future food systems and mentoring BSc/MSc students

Preference will be given to candidates with experience or a strong interest in innovative food technologies and novel protein/micronutrient sources, including single-cell proteins (including microalgae) and plant-based ingredients.

Workplace

The ETH Zurich environment is dynamic and collegial, fostering a culture of collaboration and innovation.

We Offer

We provide:

• A multicultural group with a diverse and interdisciplinary team
• Exciting and varied projects in an innovative environment
• Opportunities for personal development through training, teaching, and further education
• Clear pathways for career development
• A dynamic working atmosphere characterized by flat hierarchies

We Value Diversity and Sustainability

In alignment with our values, ETH Zurich champions an inclusive culture. We uphold equality of opportunity, celebrate diversity, and cultivate a working and learning environment that respects the rights and dignity of all staff and students. Explore our Equal Opportunities and Diversity website to see how we foster a fair and open environment conducive to growth. Sustainability remains a core value for us as we consistently pursue a climate-neutral future.

Curious? So Are We.

We look forward to receiving your online application, including:

• Motivation letter (max. 1 page) outlining your qualifications and motivation for this project
• Research proposal (max. 3 pages) on "Future Global Food Systems Sustainability", addressing current challenges, key literature, and approaches to sustainability in novel food value chains
• CV with a list of scientific outputs (e.g., theses, papers)
• Contact details for 2 referees
• Copies of BSc and MSc diplomas
• Copies of BSc and MSc theses (in any language)
• Transcript listing exams with ECTS credits and grades
• 1 recommendation letter

Please note that only applications matching the job profile will be considered.

About ETH Zürich

ETH Zurich is one of the world’s leading universities specializing in science and technology. Renowned for excellent education, cutting-edge research, and the direct transfer of new knowledge into society, ETH Zurich hosts over 30,000 individuals from more than 120 countries, fostering independent thinking and excellence. Situated in the heart of Europe while forging global connections, we collaborate to devise solutions for today’s and tomorrow's challenges.