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 (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. The 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, led by Assist. Prof. Aisling O-Carroll, engages in research and teaching within the Master of Science in Landscape Architecture (MScLA) program. The Chair develops uniquely interdisciplinary design and research in history and theory related to landscape architecture. Through geohistorical practice, we integrate tools from the natural sciences and humanities with those of the designer to create proposals that consider a diversity of actors and address urgent climate challenges. Our research bridges landscape architectural design with expanded considerations of history and theory, aiming to develop methodologies that integrate digital sensing, drawing, modeling, archival research, and design practice for reading and adapting landscapes under transformation due to climate change.

In addition to research, one of the major responsibilities of the Chair is to deliver the MScLA second-year advanced design studio. In this studio, students develop large-scale landscape architectural proposals through directed research and iterative design studies. The studio methods incorporate fieldwork, archival studies, and both digital and analogue design techniques. Students are challenged to engage with dynamic and transforming landscapes, considering their histories - both human and non-human - in relation to current and future trajectories. This second-year design studio is conducted during the autumn semester, while the spring semester focuses on preparation and research. Typically, around 20 students enroll each semester.

The ETH Master of Science in Landscape Architecture (MScLA) is part of the Department of Architecture (D-ARCH), one of the most prestigious architecture faculties in the world. The program prepares a new generation of landscape architects to address complex and unforeseen situations. By centering observation, experimentation, and synthetic thinking, it empowers students to envision innovative and sustainable solutions on the scales of both city and landscape.

Job Description

We are looking for a scientific assistant(s) (40-80%) to support the team through research activities and teaching within the MSc Landscape Architecture advanced design studio. Each of these tasks constitutes a 40% role. Candidates may apply for a specific role (40%) or both roles (80%). Your responsibilities will include:

Research (40%):

• Collaborate closely with researchers within the chair and other groups to develop investigations and disseminate findings publicly.
• Follow constructive direction and guidance while bringing independent ideas and motivation to the work.
• Conduct original research encompassing fieldwork, archival research, and design studies.
• Contribute to project management and timelines.
• Establish contacts and collaborations with interdisciplinary researchers and public institutions.
• Contribute to collaborative paper writing and publish results in peer-reviewed venues.
• Develop public-facing exhibitions and installations to communicate research findings.

Teaching (40%):

• Prepare materials and documents for the design studio.
• Organize and run 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 oversee studio field trips.
• Coordinate with other related modules taught by the chair.

As a teaching assistant, you will be expected to blend landscape architectural design and research. You must understand students' ideas and assist them in further developing their projects. Essential knowledge includes:

• Landscape historical research.
• A variety of design methods and representational tools (2D, 3D, and time-based; both analogue and digital) to guide students in iteratively developing proposals and communicating ideas.
• Experience with fieldwork.

Additionally, understanding research and research-based thinking will enable you to support students in discovering innovative solutions for design challenges. 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 with a passion for contributing to long-term research that shapes future landscape architecture practice. You must possess:

• Experience in research and teaching.
• A strong curiosity for the natural sciences and an interest in interdisciplinary work.
• An appreciation for research-driven work that integrates conceptual thinking, experimentation, and implementation.
• Design experience in landscape architecture, with a master’s degree in architecture or landscape architecture.
• The ability to teach and research in English, as the design studios are conducted in English. Additionally, knowledge of German is desirable for research and collaboration with local partners.
• Preferred experience in a landscape architecture office to support students in project development.

Workplace

The position is located at ETH Zurich, one of the leading universities in the field of science and technology.

We Offer

• Opportunities for personal and professional development through part-time research and teaching that actively contribute to positive change in society.
• A collaborative working environment where you can engage with pressing disciplinary research questions at a world-renowned academic institution.
• An international community of researchers and educators.
• An intellectually open environment, fostering experimentation, reflection, and innovation.
• Opportunities to build interdisciplinary collaborations and expand your professional network through research and teaching activities.

We Value Diversity and Sustainability

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

Curious? So Are We.

We invite you to apply online using the form below. Please ensure your application is written in English and includes the following documents:

• Motivation letter (1 page), clearly stating what position and percentage role you are applying for: research assistant (40%), teaching assistant (40%), or combined research and teaching positions (80%).
• Curriculum Vitae (max. 5 pages).
• Portfolio, including samples of research and teaching (max 20 pages).
• Contact information for two references, at least one of whom should be from an academic background.

Only applications matching the job profile will be considered.

About ETH Zurich

ETH Zurich is a world-leading university specializing in science and technology. We are renowned for our excellent education, cutting-edge research, and direct transfer of new knowledge into society. Over 30,000 individuals from more than 120 countries find our university to be a hub for independent thinking and an environment that inspires excellence. Located in the heart of Europe, we work collaboratively to develop solutions for the global challenges of today and tomorrow.