Project Manager / Project Manageress

Join the World Food System Center at ETH Zurich

The World Food System Center (WFSC) at ETH Zurich is a Competence Center dedicated to advancing food system research and education. By uniting expertise from various disciplines, the Center addresses critical challenges related to food and nutrition security, environmental and human health, and social well-being. In addition to supporting research activities across the entire food system, WFSC fosters collaboration among academia, industry, and policy-makers to generate impactful solutions on both local and global scales. The Center also provides a variety of educational activities and learning journeys—including summer schools, workshops, and outreach programs—designed to equip the next generation of food system experts with the knowledge and skills needed to transform food systems.

About the Position

Are you interested in contributing to the WFSC's mission of promoting research, education, and dialogue on sustainable food systems? We have an exciting opportunity for a Project Manager who will play a key role in managing and developing research activities and programs, facilitating education and exchange, as well as enhancing communication and representation.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage existing research programs and future activities, including the Future Food Initiative, Smart Sustainable Farming Program, and Thematic Spotlights.
• Co-develop new inter- and transdisciplinary research programs and activities, leveraging both existing and emerging funding opportunities in collaboration with external partners.
• Co-organize our two-week Summer School and other educational formats, such as educational games focused on cocoa value chains and short courses.
• Facilitate diverse exchange formats, including workshops and events, to promote dialogue across the Science-Practice and Science-Policy Interfaces.
• Create content for communication activities related to WFSC research and educational initiatives in collaboration with the Communication Manager.
• Represent the Center in discussions aimed at strengthening project-based food system education at ETH and beyond.

Qualifications

We are looking for a Project Manager with strong facilitation and organizational skills, along with a proven track record and genuine interest in food system research. Candidates should possess:

• A Master’s or PhD in agricultural or food sciences (or related fields with strong connections to food system sciences).
• Experience in food system-related activities.
• Experience in project management and education, alongside excellent communication and facilitation skills.
• Fluency in both English and German.

This role is situated within a small team and a broad Center network, making social competencies—such as flexibility, resilience, adaptability, cultural awareness, and teamwork—essential. Building bridges, critical thinking, and problem-solving are central to effective education and dialogue facilitation, with inclusivity and well-being at the heart of our team culture. The varied and complex tasks demand digital literacy, strong planning, project management, analytical thinking, communication, and negotiation skills.

What We Offer

• A diverse and dynamic role that not only supports your professional development but also contributes to meaningful societal change.
• A friendly and supportive team with ample opportunities for collaboration both within the team and with members of the Center and beyond.
• Flexible working conditions and excellent social benefits aligned with ETH Zurich's standards.
• An office located in the vibrant heart of Zurich.
• A wide array of continuing education opportunities alongside the chance to connect with various interest groups.
• Additional benefits, including public transportation passes, car sharing options, sports activities offered by ASVZ, childcare, and more.

Application Process

To express your interest in this position, please apply online using the form below. Only applications matching the job profile will be considered.

We look forward to receiving your application by 20.12.2025, including:

• Curriculum Vitae (CV)
• One-page motivation letter

For further information about the World Food System Center, please visit our website. If you have any questions regarding the position, feel free to reach out to Martijn Sonnevelt at +41 44 633 8687 or msonnevelt@ethz.ch.

Please note that applications submitted via email or postal services will not be considered. The pre-selection process will be conducted by responsible recruiters and not by artificial intelligence.

Interviews are planned for 07.01. or 09.01.2026 (first round) and 14.01. or 21.01.2026 (second round).