Postdoctoral Researcher in Digital Ecosystems for Coordinated and Equitable Biodiversity Governance / Postdoctoral Researcheress in Digital Ecosystems for Coordinated and Equitable Biodiversity Governance

Postdoc in Digital Ecosystems for Coordinated and Equitable Biodiversity Governance

100%, Zurich, fixed-term

The Environmental Policy Lab at ETH Zurich is seeking a creative and interdisciplinary postdoctoral researcher to join our group! This position offers the opportunity to pursue independent research while contributing to ongoing projects exploring how digital ecosystems are reshaping environmental decision-making. We welcome applicants from a wide range of disciplines who are interested in how digital technologies influence coordination, accountability, and justice in efforts to move towards a more sustainable biosphere.

Project Background

This postdoc position contributes to a broader research agenda focused on how digital infrastructure and computational tools can support (or hinder) progress toward effective, coordinated, and equitable biodiversity governance. Research topics may include:

• How digital ecosystems shape collective environmental action.
• How institutional designs, governance structures, and policy influence data stewardship.
• How technology policy affects the development and use of biodiversity data infrastructures.
• How justice considerations can be integrated into global biodiversity monitoring and decision support systems.

The postdoc role is designed to offer both intellectual freedom and opportunities for impact on biodiversity and technology governance challenges.

Job Description

The position offers flexibility to shape the research and specific responsibilities, encouraging creativity in defining the scope, contributions, and direction of the work. Potential responsibilities include:

• Developing and applying computational models to explore cooperation, information sharing, and biodiversity policy implementation.
• Investigating how decentralized or distributed data infrastructures can enable more equitable, transparent, and resilient biodiversity governance.
• Engaging with international processes related to biodiversity, data, and AI policy.
• Leading and contributing to peer-reviewed publications, collaborative research projects, and funding proposals.
• Presenting research at international conferences, workshops, and policy forums.
• Collaborating with interdisciplinary teams and supporting the mentorship of junior researchers.

Profile

We welcome applicants from a wide range of disciplinary backgrounds, including but not limited to environmental policy, political science, science and technology studies, public policy, data science, computer science, and international relations. The ideal candidate will bring a strong interest in the role of data and technology in shaping environmental governance.

We are looking for someone who:

• Holds a PhD (or will have completed one before the start date) in a relevant field.
• Brings expertise in at least one of the following areas: environmental governance, data governance, technology policy, simulation-based modeling (e.g., agent-based models, MARL), data science, or policy analysis.
• Has an interest in interdisciplinary research that connects technical, policy, and ethical dimensions of environmental challenges.
• Has experience with or interest in studying collective action and information-sharing systems.
• Demonstrates strong writing and communication skills in English.
• Shows intellectual curiosity and a creative approach to problem-solving.

Workplace

The position is based at ETH Zurich's central campus. The initial appointment is for one year, with the possibility of a one to two-year extension. Employment will follow ETH Zurich's standard regulations for postdoctoral researchers.

We Offer

The Environmental Policy Lab provides a supportive environment for interdisciplinary and creative research. We offer:

• Mentorship and support for developing an independent research agenda and securing future funding.
• Collaboration opportunities with international research and policy networks.
• Access to ETH's world-class computing infrastructure and research facilities.
• Access to research funding for project costs, conference travel, and collaboration opportunities.
• Flexible start date and potential for contract extension.

We Value Diversity

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 in which the rights and dignity of all our staff and students are respected. Visit our Equal Opportunities and Diversity website to find out how we ensure a fair and open environment that allows everyone to grow and flourish.

Curious? So Are We.

We look forward to receiving your online application! Please apply online using the form below. Only applications matching the job profile will be considered.

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 direct transfer of new knowledge into society. Over 30,000 people from more than 120 countries find our university to be 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.