Project Manager Research and Education

80%, Zurich, Permanent

The World Food System Center (WFSC) at ETH Zurich is a Competence Center committed to advancing food system research and education. It brings together expertise from various disciplines to tackle pressing challenges related to food and nutrition security, environmental and human health, and social wellbeing. Beyond supporting research activities across the food system, the Center fosters collaboration among academia, industry, and policymakers to create impactful solutions on both local and global scales. Additionally, it offers a range of educational activities and learning journeys—including a summer school, workshops, and other outreach formats—designed to equip the next generation of food system experts with the knowledge and skills necessary to transform food systems.

Project Background

Are you interested in supporting the World Food System Center in advancing research, education, and dialogue on sustainable food systems?

We have an open position that combines management and development of research activities and programs, educational exchange facilitation, as well as communication and representation.

Key responsibilities of this exciting role include managing existing research programs, developing innovative interdisciplinary research initiatives, and designing educational formats for diverse audiences, such as summer schools and workshops. The position also involves fostering dialogue between science, practice, and policy to create meaningful solutions for global food system challenges.

Job Description

We are looking for a Project Manager with strong facilitation and organizational skills, along with proven experience and a strong interest in food system research. The successful candidate will be responsible for the following tasks:

• Management and coordination of current and future research programs and activities (including the Future Food Initiative, Smart Sustainable Farming Program, Thematic Spotlights, etc.).
• Co-development of new inter- and transdisciplinary research programs based on existing or emerging funding opportunities and in collaboration with external partners.
• Co-development and co-organization of our two-week Summer School and other educational formats (e.g., educational games on cocoa value chains, short courses) and outreach events with educational elements.
• Development and facilitation of various exchange formats (workshops, events, educational formats, peer-to-peer learning) with a diverse audience to support dialogue at the Science-Practice, Science-Policy interface.
• Creation of content for communication activities on WFSC research and education in collaboration with the Communication Manager.
• Representation of the Center in discussions to strengthen project-based food system education at ETH and beyond.

Profile

• Candidates should hold an MSc or PhD in agricultural or food sciences (or related fields closely linked to food system sciences) and possess experience in food system-related activities. Strong communication and facilitation skills, along with project management experience, are essential.
• Fluency in English and German is mandatory.
• The role is embedded in 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 education and dialogue facilitation, while inclusivity and wellbeing are core to our team culture. The diverse and complex tasks will demand digital literacy, strong planning, project management, analytical thinking, communication, and negotiation skills.

Workplace

Join a friendly and supportive environment located in the heart of Zurich, where you will have ample opportunities to collaborate with colleagues within the Center and beyond. We are committed to fostering an inclusive culture that promotes diversity and sustainability.

We Offer

• A varied and exciting role with impact, which not only supports your professional development but also actively contributes to positive change in society.
• Flexible working conditions and excellent social benefits in line with ETH Zurich standards.
• A centrally located office in Zurich.
• A range of continuing education opportunities and the chance to connect with diverse interest groups.
• Various benefits, including public transportation passes, car sharing, sports activities offered by ASVZ, childcare, etc.

The start date will be the earliest possible for the selected candidate.

We Value Diversity and Sustainability

ETH Zurich encourages an inclusive culture. We promote equality of opportunity, value diversity, and 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 environment that allows everyone to thrive. Sustainability is a core value for us as we consistently work towards a climate-neutral future.

Curious? So Are We.

Apply online using the form below. Only applications matching the job profile will be considered.

For more information about the World Food System Center, please visit our website. Questions regarding the position should be directed to Martijn Sonnevelt at +41 44 633 8687 or msonnevelt@ethz.ch.

About ETH Zurich

ETH Zurich is one of the world's leading universities specializing in science and technology. Renowned for its excellent education, cutting-edge research, and direct transfer of knowledge into society, ETH Zurich attracts over 30,000 individuals from more than 120 countries. Located in the heart of Europe, we collaborate globally to develop solutions for today's and tomorrow's challenges.