Doctoral Researcher in Sustainability Assessment for Evaluating Future Global Food Systems / Doctoral Researcher 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 methods alongside emerging food system approaches to tackle vital challenges in food science and society, including the protein transition and food security.

The project aims to enhance and implement sustainability assessment methodologies that will facilitate transformations within future global food systems. By incorporating future projections, the project seeks to identify improvement potentials in key value chains across various geographical contexts, adopting an interdisciplinary approach through collaboration with diverse research groups.

Job Description

We are seeking a highly motivated candidate to contribute to this project, which evaluates both the current status and future scenarios of sustainability across global food systems, encapsulating nutritional, environmental, economic, and social dimensions.

Profile

The successful candidate must possess:

• 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, the ideal candidate should demonstrate:

• Outstanding academic qualifications and strong writing skills, with a self-motivated attitude conducive to thriving 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) (strongly preferred).
• A high degree of curiosity and openness to new ideas, alongside 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 considered a significant advantage.

Workplace

Join us in a vibrant and diverse working environment that fosters collaboration and innovation.

We Offer

We offer:

• A multicultural team with diverse and interdisciplinary compositions.
• Exciting and varied projects in an innovative environment.
• Personal development opportunities through training, teaching, and further education.
• Perspectives for career growth.
• A dynamic, collegial work atmosphere with flat hierarchies.

We Value Diversity and Sustainability

ETH Zurich promotes an inclusive culture, emphasizing equality of opportunity and the importance of diversity. We nurture a working and learning environment that respects the rights and dignity of all staff and students. Sustainability is a core value for us; we are dedicated to working towards a climate-neutral future.

Curious? So Are We.

We look forward to receiving your online application, including:

• A motivation letter (max. 1 page) outlining your qualifications and motivation for this project.
• A research proposal (max. 3 pages) on "Future Global Food Systems Sustainability," addressing current challenges, key literature, and sustainability approaches in novel food value chains.
• A 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 (any language).
• A transcript listing exams with ECTS credits and grades.
• One recommendation letter.

Apply online using the form below. Please note that only applications matching the job profile will be considered. The position will remain open until a suitable candidate is found.

Further Information

For more details about the group, please visit our website. If you have any questions regarding the position, feel free to reach out via email to Prof. Dr. Alexander Mathys at alexander.mathys@hest.ethz.ch and Dr. Léa Braud at lea.braud@hest.ethz.ch.

The anticipated start date is spring 2026, or as soon as possible thereafter.

About ETH Zurich

ETH Zurich is a leading global university specializing in science and technology, recognized for our outstanding education, pioneering fundamental research, and our commitment to transferring new knowledge into society. With over 30,000 individuals from more than 120 countries, ETH Zurich fosters independent thinking and inspires excellence. Situated in the heart of Europe, we strive to develop solutions for the global challenges of today and tomorrow.