Doctoral Researcher in Sustainability Assessment for Evaluating Future Global Food Systems / 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 a blend of innovative sustainability assessment methods and emerging food system approaches to tackle fundamental challenges in food science and society, such as the protein transition and food security.

The project aims to advance sustainability assessment methods that support transformations within future global food systems. By integrating future projections, this project will identify improvement potentials across key value chains in diverse geographical contexts. The endeavor will embrace an interdisciplinary approach through close collaboration with other research groups.

Job Description

We are seeking a highly motivated candidate to participate in this pivotal project assessing the current status and future scenarios of global food systems sustainability across 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:

• Exceptional 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), 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 degree of 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 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 strong advantage.

Workplace

The successful candidate will join a multicultural group with a diverse and interdisciplinary team, engaging in exciting and varied projects within an innovative environment.

Offers

We offer:

• A multicultural group with a 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 encourages an inclusive culture. We promote equality of opportunity, value diversity, and nurture a working and learning environment where the rights and dignity of all our staff and students are respected. Visit our Equal Opportunities and Diversity website to discover how we ensure a fair and open environment that allows everyone to grow and flourish. 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 using the form below, which should include:

• 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 (any language)
• Transcript listing exams with ECTS credits and grades
• 1 recommendation letter

Only applications matching the job profile will be considered.

Please note that the start date is spring 2026, or as soon as possible thereafter.

About ETH Zurich

ETH Zurich is one of the world’s leading universities specializing in science and technology. Renowned for its excellent education, cutting-edge fundamental research, and direct transfer of new knowledge into society, ETH Zurich fosters an environment that inspires independent thinking and excellence. Over 30,000 individuals from more than 120 countries call our university a place where ideas flourish. Located in the heart of Europe while connecting globally, we collaborate to develop solutions for the pressing challenges of today and tomorrow.