Scientific Assistant / Scientific Assistantess

Scientific Assistant (Teaching and Research) Specializing in Landscape Architectural Design

40%-80%, Zurich, Fixed-Term

The Chair of Landscape Architecture and Geohistorical Practice, led by Assist. Professor Aisling O-Carroll, at the Department of Architecture at ETH Zurich, is seeking a highly motivated scientific assistant to support the research and teaching activities of the chair. This position is fixed-term for nine months, running until the end of February 2027, with the possibility of extension.

Project Background

The Chair of Landscape Architecture and Geohistorical Practice engages in research and teaching for the Master of Science in Landscape Architecture (MScLA) program. We focus on interdisciplinary design alongside history and theory research for landscape architecture. By incorporating tools from both the natural sciences and humanities, we aim to propose innovative solutions that address critical climate challenges. Our research merges landscape architectural design with a broad understanding of history and theory, developing methodologies to integrate digital sensing, drawing, modeling, archival study, and design practice to interpret and adapt landscapes undergoing transformation due to climate change.

A significant teaching task for the chair involves delivering the MScLA second-year advanced design studio. In this studio, students create large-scale landscape architectural proposals informed by directed research and iterative design studies. Students are encouraged to engage in fieldwork, archival and historical research, and both digital and analog design practices, fostering a deep understanding of evolving landscapes and their histories.

Job Description

We are looking for scientific assistants (40-80%) to support the team through research activities and teaching in the MSc Landscape Architecture advanced design studio. Each role (teaching or research) constitutes a 40% position, and candidates may apply for one or both roles. Your responsibilities include:

Research (40%):

• Collaborate closely with researchers within the chair and other groups to develop investigations and disseminate findings.
• Take constructive direction and guidance for research development while contributing independent ideas and motivation.
• Conduct original research involving fieldwork, archival study, and design investigations.
• Assist with project management and adhere to timelines.
• Establish contacts and collaborations with interdisciplinary researchers and public institutions.
• Contribute to collaborative paper writing and aim for publication in peer-reviewed venues.
• Develop public-facing exhibitions and installations to communicate research results.

Teaching (40%):

• Prepare materials and documents for the design studio.
• Organize and facilitate the design studio.
• Support students in developing their projects during desk critiques.
• Evaluate and grade student projects.
• Deliver short input lectures for the studio.
• Organize and lead studio field trips.
• Coordinate with other related modules taught by the chair.

As a teaching assistant, you are expected to blend landscape architectural design with research. You should be prepared to understand student ideas and assist in their project development. Moreover, familiarity with:

• Landscape historical research.
• A range of design methods and 2D, 3D, and time-based representation tools (both analog and digital) to support iterative proposal development.
• Experience with fieldwork will be advantageous.

Knowledge of research methodologies will also enhance your ability to guide students toward innovative design solutions. Please note that studio days are Tuesdays and Wednesdays.

This scientific assistant position(s) is fixed-term, with the possibility of extension, and has a tentative start date of June 1, 2026.

Profile

We seek a highly motivated candidate passionate about contributing to long-term research that shapes future landscape architecture practices. You must have:

• Experience in research and teaching.
• A strong interest in the natural sciences and interdisciplinary collaboration.
• A research-driven approach that combines conceptual thinking, experimentation, and practical application.
• A master's degree in architecture or landscape architecture, with design experience in landscape architecture.
• Proficiency in English for teaching and research; knowledge of German is desirable for local collaboration.
• Experience working in a landscape architecture office is preferable, aiding students in project development.

Workplace

ETH Zurich offers a collaborative working environment in a world-renowned academic institution, and we aim to provide personal and professional development through research and teaching initiatives that positively impact society.

We Value Diversity and Sustainability

In alignment with our core values, ETH Zurich promotes an inclusive culture that values diversity and equality of opportunity. We nurture a working and learning environment that respects the rights and dignity of all staff and students. Sustainability is integral to our mission, and we are committed to a climate-neutral future.

Curious? So Are We.

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