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 research and education in the field of food systems. By uniting expertise across various disciplines, the WFSC addresses urgent challenges related to food and nutrition security, environmental and human health, as well as social well-being. In addition to supporting research activities throughout the food system, the Center promotes collaboration among academia, industry, and policy to develop impactful solutions that span both local and global scales. Moreover, it offers a diverse array of educational initiatives, including summer schools, workshops, and other outreach formats, designed to equip the next generation of food system experts with the necessary knowledge and skills to transform food systems.

About the Position

We have an exciting open position that combines the management and development of research activities and programs, education, exchange facilitation, and communication responsibilities.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage existing research programs, including initiatives such as the Future Food Initiative and Smart Sustainable Farming Program.
• Co-develop new inter- and transdisciplinary research programs and activities, collaborating with external partners and the Center’s Research Coordinator and Executive Director.
• Co-organize our two-week Summer School and other educational formats, such as workshops and outreach events.
• Facilitate various exchange formats (workshops, peer-to-peer learning, etc.) to support dialogue at the Science-Practice and Science-Policy Interface.
• Create content for communication activities related to WFSC research and education, in collaboration with the Communication Manager.
• Represent the Center in discussions aimed at strengthening project-based food system education at ETH Zurich and beyond.

Candidate Profile

We seek a Project Manager with strong facilitation and organizational skills, as well as proven experience and interest in food system research. The ideal candidate will have:

• A Master's degree or PhD in agricultural or food sciences (or related fields with strong links to food system sciences).
• Experience in food system-related activities.
• Strong project management, communication, and facilitation skills.
• Fluency in English and German.

Work Environment

This role is embedded in a small team within a broad Center network, making soft skills such as flexibility, resilience, adaptability, cultural awareness, and teamwork essential. Building connections, critical thinking, and problem-solving are central to facilitating education and dialogue, while inclusivity and well-being are core to the team culture. The diverse and complex tasks require digital literacy, planning, project management, analytical thinking, communication, and negotiation skills.

What We Offer

• A varied, diverse, and impactful role that supports your professional development while contributing to positive societal changes.
• A friendly and supportive team with numerous opportunities for collaboration within the team and with other Center members.
• Flexible working conditions and robust social benefits in line with ETH Zurich standards.
• An office centrally located in the heart of Zurich.
• A range of continuing education opportunities and connections with diverse interest groups.
• Various benefits such as public transportation passes, car sharing options, a wide variety of sports activities offered by ASVZ, childcare, etc.

Application Process

To explore the opportunity to join us, please apply online using the form below. Only applications matching the job profile will be considered.

The deadline for applications is December 20, 2025. The start date will be as soon as possible for the selected candidate.

For further information about the World Food System Center, please visit our website. For any questions regarding the position, please contact Martijn Sonnevelt at +41 44 633 8687 or msonnevelt@ethz.ch.

Interview Schedule

Interviews are planned for January 7 or 9, 2026 (first round) and January 14 or 21, 2026 (second round).