Doctoral Researcher in Food Processing for Planetary and Human Health / Doctoral Researcher in Food Processing for Planetary and Human Health

Doctoral Researcher in Food Processing for Planetary and Human Health

100%, Zurich, fixed-term

The ETH Sustainable Food Processing Group is dedicated to advancing food processing technologies and their role in sustainable food systems. We employ innovative approaches to tackle fundamental challenges such as protein transition and food security. Our team utilizes sustainability assessment methods and emerging food system strategies to guide processing innovations towards holistic and effective solutions.

Job Description

We are seeking a highly motivated candidate to join a collaborative research project that explores the impact of food processing on both nutritional quality and environmental sustainability.

The primary goal of this position is to identify and develop processing strategies that enhance nutritional quality and environmental performance, utilizing nutritional life cycle assessment (nLCA) methods, while creating appealing, protein-rich products. Responsibilities include conducting processing trials and coordinating collaborations within the team and with external partners to integrate nutritional, health, and sustainability considerations systematically into the research.

Our two well-equipped pilot plants, featuring technologies such as multi-scale extruders, high-pressure and thermal treatment systems, and pulsed electric field (PEF) equipment, will serve as the core experimental platform for this project. Advanced analytical methods—including nutritional profiling, bioaccessibility studies, dynamic mechanical analysis, imaging, and spectroscopy—will be employed to evaluate product quality.

Profile

The ideal candidate will have a:

• Master's degree (or equivalent) in Food Technology, Food Engineering, Food Science, Bioengineering, Biotechnology, or a closely related field.

Additionally, the candidate should possess:

• Excellent academic qualifications.
• Advanced knowledge in food processing.
• Strong communication and writing skills, coupled with high self-motivation.
• Openness to interdisciplinary collaboration and a flexible mindset.
• Enthusiasm for engineering, food technology, and sustainability questions.
• Expertise in structuring via extrusion, disintegration, or preservation technologies, along with project management and nutrition, will be considered a plus.

Workplace

Join our dynamic, multicultural group committed to fostering a collegial and innovative work environment. We offer diverse projects that contribute to personal growth and career development.

We Offer

• A multicultural group with diverse and interdisciplinary team composition.
• Exciting and varied projects in an innovative environment.
• Opportunities for personal development through training, teaching, and further education.
• Career development perspectives.
• A dynamic work atmosphere with flat hierarchies.

We Value Diversity and Sustainability

At ETH Zurich, we promote an inclusive culture, encouraging equality of opportunity and valuing diversity. We nurture a working and learning environment that respects the rights and dignity of all our staff and students. Sustainability is a core value for us, and we are committed to achieving a climate-neutral future.

Curious? So Are We!

We invite you to apply online using the form below. Only applications matching the job profile will be considered.

Please include:

• A motivation letter (max. 1 page) outlining your qualifications and motivation for this project.
• A research proposal (max. 3 pages) on "Future of Food Processing for Affordable, Nutritious, and More Sustainable Foods," addressing current challenges, key literature, and innovative approaches.
• A CV with a list of scientific outputs (e.g., theses, papers).
• Contact details of two referees.
• Copies of BSc and MSc diplomas.
• Copies of BSc and MSc theses (in any language).
• A transcript listing exams with ECTS credits and grades.
• One recommendation letter.

The earliest start date is spring 2026, or as soon as possible thereafter. There is no deadline, and the position will remain 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. Corina Sägesser at corina.saegesser@hest.ethz.ch (no direct applications).

About ETH Zurich

ETH Zurich is one of the world’s leading universities 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. Our university hosts over 30,000 people from more than 120 countries, promoting independent thinking and an environment that inspires excellence. Located in the heart of Europe, we are dedicated to developing solutions for today’s and tomorrow’s global challenges.