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 a unique blend of innovative sustainability assessment and emerging food system methodologies to tackle fundamental challenges in food science and society, such as the protein transition and food security.

The project seeks to enhance and implement sustainability assessment methods that will support transformations within future global food systems. By integrating future projections, the project will identify improvement potentials in key value chains across diverse geographical contexts. An interdisciplinary approach will be adopted through close collaboration with other research groups.

Job Description

We are seeking a highly motivated candidate to contribute to this project that 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

In addition, the candidate should possess:

• 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, particularly life cycle assessment (essential); mathematical modeling of environmental systems (a plus); and planetary boundaries (a plus)
• Documented work experience in food system sustainability, bioeconomy, LCA/LCSA, planetary boundaries, or data science programming (Python, R) (a strong plus)
• A high level of curiosity, openness to new ideas, effective teamwork, and communication skills
• An 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 regarded as a strong advantage.

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.
• Career development perspectives.
• 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 equal 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 learn 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, 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.

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 position is set to start in spring 2026, or as soon as possible thereafter.

About ETH Zürich

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 direct transfer of new knowledge into society. Over 30,000 individuals from more than 120 countries find our university to be a space that promotes independent thinking and inspires excellence. Located in the heart of Europe yet forging connections all over the world, we collaborate to develop solutions for the global challenges of today and tomorrow.