Job Opportunity: Scientific Assistant at the Chair of Landscape Architecture and Geohistorical Practice
The Chair of Landscape Architecture and Geohistorical Practice, led by Assist. Professor Aisling O’Carroll at the Department of Architecture, ETH Zurich, is looking for a highly motivated scientific assistant to support our research and teaching activities. This is a fixed-term position for nine months, running until February 2027, with the potential for extension.
About the Chair
The Chair engages in innovative research and teaching within the Master of Science in Landscape Architecture (MScLA) program. We focus on interdisciplinary approaches to design, history, and theory in landscape architecture, integrating tools from the natural sciences and humanities to tackle pressing climate challenges. Our research bridges traditional landscape architectural design with a broader context of historical and theoretical considerations, developing methodologies that include digital sensing, archival research, and adaptive design practices.
Teaching Responsibilities
One of the core teaching responsibilities is to deliver the advanced design studio for second-year MScLA students. In this studio, students are supported in developing large-scale landscape architectural proposals through directed research and iterative design processes. They will engage in fieldwork, archival studies, and utilize both digital and analogue design methods, analyzing dynamic landscapes in relation to their histories and future trajectories.
Position Overview
We are seeking a scientific assistant (40-80% workload) to support the research activities and the advanced design studio. Candidates may apply for one of the roles or both. Below are your main responsibilities:
Research Responsibilities (40%):
- Collaborate with researchers to develop investigations and disseminate findings.
- Bring independent ideas and motivation to research development.
- Conduct original research involving fieldwork, archival research, and design studies.
- Contribute to project management and timeline adherence.
- Foster relationships with interdisciplinary researchers and public institutions.
- Participate in collaborative writing and publishing of research findings.
- Design public exhibitions to showcase research outcomes.
Teaching Responsibilities (40%):
- Prepare materials and documents for the design studio.
- Organize and manage the design studio.
- Support students during project development and desk critiques.
- Evaluate and grade student projects.
- Conduct brief input lectures for the studio.
- Coordinate and manage studio field trips.
- Collaborate with other related modules taught by the chair.
Candidate Profile
We are seeking a highly motivated candidate with a deep interest in shaping future landscape architecture practices through research. Ideal candidates will have:
- Experience in research and teaching.
- A strong curiosity for the natural sciences and interdisciplinary projects.
- An interest in integrating conceptual thinking, experimentation, and practical application in research.
- A master's degree in architecture or landscape architecture, with relevant design experience.
- Proficiency in English for teaching and research, with knowledge of German being desirable.
- Desirable experience working in a landscape architecture office to support student projects.
What We Offer
By joining our team, you will benefit from:
- A collaborative work environment focused on disciplinary research at a world-renowned academic institution.
- Engagement with a diverse international community of researchers and educators.
- An intellectually open environment that encourages experimentation and innovation.
- Opportunities for building interdisciplinary collaborations and networking through research and teaching activities.
Application Process
Apply online using the form below. Please include the following documents:
- A motivation letter clearly stating your preferred position and workload (40% research assistant, 40% teaching assistant, or combined roles at 80%) — limited to 1 page.
- A detailed curriculum vitae (maximum 5 pages).
- A portfolio featuring research and teaching samples (maximum 20 pages).
- Contact information for two references, with at least one being academic.
Please note that only applications matching the job profile will be considered. For any inquiries, please contact Johanna Just at just@arch.ethz.ch.
We look forward to your application and thank you for your interest in contributing to our mission.