Project Manager / Project Manageress

Join the World Food System Center (WFSC) at ETH Zurich

The World Food System Center (WFSC) at ETH Zurich is a pioneering Competence Center dedicated to advancing research and education in food systems. By bringing together diverse expertise, we aim to tackle urgent challenges related to food and nutrition security, as well as environmental and human health, while prioritizing social well-being. Our center not only supports comprehensive research activities across the food system but also fosters collaboration among academia, industry, and policy-making to devise impactful solutions that address issues on both local and global scales. We offer a variety of educational activities, including summer schools, workshops, and outreach initiatives, designed to prepare the next generation of food system experts with the knowledge and skills required to transform food systems.

About the Position

We are currently seeking a Project Manager to support our mission of advancing research, education, and dialogue surrounding sustainable food systems.

Key Responsibilities

This exciting role encompasses the management and development of research activities and programs, education and exchange facilitation, as well as communication and representation. Your responsibilities will include:

• Managing existing research programs, including but not limited to the Future Food Initiative and Smart Sustainable Farming Program.
• Co-developing new interdisciplinary research initiatives in partnership with external collaborators and based on current funding opportunities.
• Co-organizing our 2-week Summer School and other educational formats such as workshops and outreach events.
• Facilitating various exchange formats (workshops, events, educational engagements) to promote dialogue between science and practice, as well as between science and policy.
• Creating content for communication activities related to WFSC's research and educational endeavors in collaboration with the Communication Manager.
• Representing the Center in discussions aimed at strengthening project-based food system education at ETH Zurich and beyond.

Qualifications

The ideal candidate will possess the following qualifications:

• A MSc or PhD in agricultural or food sciences (or related fields closely linked to food system sciences).
• Experience in food system-related activities and project management.
• Strong communication and facilitation skills.
• Fluency in English and German is mandatory.

Our team values social competencies such as flexibility, resilience, cultural awareness, cooperation, and teamwork. As part of a small team within the broader Center network, candidates should excel in building bridges, critical thinking, and problem-solving. Inclusivity and well-being are central to our team culture. This multifaceted role requires strong digital literacy, planning, project management, analytical thinking, and negotiation skills.

What We Offer

• A dynamic and diverse role with the opportunity to make a meaningful impact.
• A friendly and supportive team environment with numerous opportunities for collaboration.
• Flexible working conditions and comprehensive social benefits aligned with ETH Zurich standards.
• An office located in the vibrant heart of Zurich.
• A variety of continuing education opportunities and connections with diverse interest groups.
• Additional benefits including public transportation passes, car-sharing options, and access to various sports activities offered by ASVZ.

The start date is as soon as possible for the selected candidate. Apply online using the form below.

Only applications matching the job profile will be considered.

Further Information

For more details about the World Food System Center, please visit our website. For questions regarding the position, feel free to reach out to Martijn Sonnevelt at +41 44 633 8687 or via email at msonnevelt@ethz.ch.

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