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 employs innovative sustainability assessment and emerging food system approaches to tackle 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 integrating future projections, it will identify improvement potentials in key value chains across diverse geographical contexts. This work will adopt an interdisciplinary approach through close collaboration with other research groups.

Job Description

We are seeking a highly motivated candidate to join this project, which evaluates the current status and future scenarios of sustainability in global food systems across nutritional, 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

Additionally, candidates should possess:

• Excellent academic qualifications, strong writing skills, self-motivation, and the ability to thrive 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), and mathematical modeling of environmental systems (a plus)
• Documented work in food system sustainability, bioeconomy, LCA/LCSA, planetary boundaries, or data science programming (Python, R) (strong plus)
• High curiosity, openness to new ideas, effective teamwork, and communication skills
• Interest in advancing sustainability science in future food systems and mentoring BSc/MSc students

Candidates with experience or a strong interest in innovative food technologies and novel protein/micronutrient sources, such as single-cell proteins (including microalgae) and plant-based ingredients, will be viewed favorably.

Workplace

The role is based at ETH Zurich, renowned as one of the world's leading universities specializing in science and technology. The institute promotes independent thinking and provides an environment that inspires excellence.

We Offer

We offer:

• A multicultural group with diverse and interdisciplinary team composition
• Exciting and varied projects in an innovative environment
• Personal development opportunities through training, teaching, and further education
• Perspectives for career development
• A dynamic, collegial working environment with flat hierarchies

We Value Diversity and Sustainability

In line with our values, ETH Zurich fosters an inclusive culture. We promote equality of opportunity, value diversity, and nurture a working and learning environment in which the rights and dignity of all our staff and students are respected. Sustainability is a core value for us - we are consistently working towards 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 of 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 we will consider only applications matching the job profile. Applications submitted via email or postal services will not be considered. The position is open until a suitable candidate is found.

For further information about the group, please visit our website. Questions regarding the position should be directed via email to Prof. Dr. Alexander Mathys at alexander.mathys@hest.ethz.ch and Dr. Léa Braud at lea.braud@hest.ethz.ch.

The start date is spring 2026, or as soon as possible thereafter. We would like to emphasize that the pre-selection process is conducted by our responsible recruiters and not through artificial intelligence.

About ETH Zurich

ETH Zurich is a globally recognized institution specializing in science and technology. We are renowned for our excellent education, cutting-edge fundamental research, and the direct transfer of new knowledge into society. Over 30,000 individuals from more than 120 countries find our university a place that promotes independent thinking and fosters an environment of excellence. Located in the heart of Europe, we work collaboratively to develop solutions for today’s and tomorrow’s global challenges.

Apply online using the form below.