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 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 further develop and apply 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. The work will adopt an interdisciplinary approach through close collaboration with other research groups.

Job Description

We are seeking a highly motivated candidate to contribute to a project that assesses 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 is mandatory.

In addition, the candidate should have:

• Outstanding 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).
• 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 strong interest in innovative food technologies and novel protein/micronutrient sources, such as single-cell proteins (including microalgae) and plant-based ingredients, will be given strong preference.

Workplace

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 staff and students are respected. Visit our Equal Opportunities and Diversity website to learn how we ensure a fair and open environment that allows everyone to grow and thrive. 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 (English, PDF format), 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.

Apply online using the form below. Only applications matching the job profile will be considered. There is no deadline; 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 by email to Prof. Dr. Alexander Mathys at alexander.mathys@hest.ethz.ch and Dr. Léa Braud at lea.braud@hest.ethz.ch (no direct applications).

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. We are renowned for our excellent education, cutting-edge fundamental research, and the direct transfer of new knowledge into society. Over 30,000 people from more than 120 countries find our university a place that promotes independent thinking and an environment that inspires excellence. Located in the heart of Europe, yet forging connections all over the world, we work together to develop solutions for the global challenges of today and tomorrow.