Postdoctoral Researcher in Production and Operations Management / Postdoctoral Researcheress in Production and Operations Management

Postdoctoral Researcher in Production and Operations Management

100%, Zurich, fixed-term

The Chair of Production and Operations Management (POM), led by Prof. Torbjørn Netland, at the Department of Management, Technology, and Economics (D-MTEC) at ETH Zurich, invites applications for the position of Postdoctoral Researcher (or Senior Scientist for experienced candidates) in Smart Manufacturing and/or Operational Excellence.

The Chair of POM at ETH Zurich engages in empirical and innovative POM research with significant relevance. We publish in leading engineering and management disciplines, targeting top conferences and journals. Our focus is on high-quality empirical research in collaboration with industry partners.

Project Background

To enhance our team, we seek exceptional candidates with proven abilities in conducting and publishing impactful research in production management, in partnership with companies or utilizing company-level data. We welcome candidates with expertise in either Smart Manufacturing or Operational Excellence:

• Smart Manufacturing: Involves the application of digitalization, machine learning, analytics, and other Industry 4.0 technologies in manufacturing.
• Operational Excellence: Encompasses traditional industrial engineering and management topics such as lean production, world-class manufacturing, workforce augmentation, and continuous improvement.

Job Description

This full-time position offers a competitive salary in accordance with ETH standards and provides an excellent opportunity for the candidate to advance their academic career. The primary focus of this role is research, emphasizing publications in top POM journals (e.g., JOM, POM, M&SOM, Management Science) or leading Industrial Engineering journals (e.g., IJPR, IEEE TEM, CII, JMS). The role will also involve co-supervision of doctoral students, with shared opportunities for publication. Secondary responsibilities may include research project acquisition and management, with limited teaching and service duties.

There is flexibility regarding the start date to accommodate the selected candidate's availability. The contract duration is limited to 2-6 years, adhering to ETH Zurich regulations.

Profile

We seek candidates with a background in industrial engineering or operations management who are eager to contribute to the Chair of POM's commitment to empirical research. Candidates with a focus on mathematical modeling or Operations Research are discouraged from applying unless their profile includes a strong empirical component.

The ideal candidate will be nearing completion or possess a Ph.D. from a recognized university. Exceptional oral and written English skills are required. Fluency in German is advantageous due to potential collaborations with Swiss manufacturers but is not a strict requirement. The working language is English.

Applicants should demonstrate outstanding research and writing abilities, prioritizing research quality over quantity. We value innovative and actionable research ideas. Candidates with lengthy publication lists that predominantly feature lower-tier journals are discouraged from applying.

We seek a strong team player. While industrial experience is beneficial, it is not a prerequisite. The successful candidate will join an ambitious and dynamic research team, providing a stimulating research environment.

We Offer

• Your career with impact: Become part of ETH Zurich, supporting your professional growth while contributing to positive societal change.
• Commitment to a sustainable and climate-neutral university.
• A variety of benefits, including public transport season tickets, car sharing, extensive sports offerings, childcare services, and attractive pension packages.

We Value Diversity

In alignment with our values, ETH Zurich fosters an inclusive culture that promotes equality of opportunity and values diversity. We nurture an 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 atmosphere for growth and success.

Curious? So Are We.

We look forward to receiving your online application using the form below, which should include the following documents:

• CV
• Statement of motivation and research interests (1-2 pages)
• Transcripts of all obtained degrees (in English or German)
• Names and contact information for three references
• Two selected publications

Please address your application to Prof. Netland. We review applications continuously and will consider only those that match the job profile.

For further details about the POM Chair, please visit our website. For inquiries, contact Ms. Sharon Teitler at steitler@ethz.ch (no applications).

About ETH Zurich

ETH Zurich is one of the world's leading universities specializing in science and technology, known for excellent education, cutting-edge research, and the direct application of knowledge in society. Over 30,000 individuals from more than 120 countries find ETH to be a place that fosters independent thinking and inspires excellence. Located at the center of Europe, we collaborate globally to address today's and tomorrow's challenges.