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, continuing 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, is dedicated to research and teaching within the Master of Science in Landscape Architecture (MScLA) program. We develop uniquely interdisciplinary design and research methodologies that address urgent climate challenges by integrating tools from natural sciences and humanities with those of design practice. Our research activities aim to bridge landscape architectural design with expanded considerations of history and theory, creating methodologies that incorporate digital sensing, drawing, modeling, archival research, and design practice to adapt landscapes in transformation under climate change.

In addition to research, one of the significant teaching tasks of the Chair is to deliver the MScLA second-year advanced design studio. In this studio, students create large-scale landscape architectural proposals through directed research and iterative design studies. The studio integrates fieldwork, archival and historical study, as well as digital and analogue design methods. Students are challenged to address dynamic and transforming landscapes by considering their histories—both human and non-human—in relation to their current and future trajectories.

This second-year design studio is taught during the autumn semester, while the spring semester focuses on preparation and research. Typically, there will be around 20 students per semester.

The ETH Master of Science in Landscape Architecture (MScLA) is part of the Department of Architecture (D-ARCH), one of the most esteemed faculties of architecture worldwide. Its prominent position is attributed to both the high quality of teaching and the exceptional outcomes of its research. The program prepares a new generation of landscape architects to respond to increasingly complex situations and unforeseen phenomena. By emphasizing observation, experimentation, and synthetic thinking, it enables students to envision creative and sustainable solutions on the scale of the city and landscape.

Job Description

We are seeking a scientific assistant (40-80%) to support the team through research activities and by teaching the MSc Landscape Architecture advanced design studio. Each task—research and teaching—constitutes a 40% role. Candidates may apply for one of the roles specifically (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 public dissemination of work.
• Take direction and guidance for research development while bringing innovative ideas and motivation to the work.
• Conduct original research involving fieldwork, archival research, and design studies.
• Contribute to project management and timelines.
• Establish connections and collaborations with interdisciplinary researchers and public institutions.
• Participate in collaborative paper writing and publish results in peer-reviewed platforms.
• Create 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 brief input lectures for the studio.
• Organize and execute the studio field trip.
• Coordinate with related modules taught by the chair.

As a teaching assistant, you are expected to combine landscape architectural design and research. You should be capable of understanding student ideas and helping them further develop their projects. You need knowledge of:

• Landscape historical research.
• A variety of design methods and representational tools (both analogue and digital) for guiding students in the iterative development of proposals and communication of their ideas.
• Experience with fieldwork.

Additionally, familiarity with research and research-based thinking will enable you to assist students in identifying innovative solutions for design challenges. Studio days are Tuesdays and Wednesdays.

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

Profile

We seek a highly motivated candidate interested in contributing to long-term research that shapes future landscape architecture practice. Ideal candidates will have:

• Experience in research and teaching.
• A strong curiosity about natural sciences and an interest in interdisciplinary work.
• An inclination towards research-driven work that integrates conceptual thinking, experimentation, and making.
• A design background in landscape architecture, preferably holding 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. Knowledge of German is desirable for research and local collaborations.
• Working experience in a landscape architecture office, enhancing the ability to support students in developing their projects.

Workplace

[Workplace information to be included here]

We Offer

• Opportunities for personal and professional development through part-time research and teaching that actively contribute to positive societal change.
• A collaborative working environment where you can contribute to significant disciplinary research in a world-renowned academic institution.
• An engaged, international community of researchers and educators.
• An intellectually open environment that encourages experimentation, reflection, and innovation.
• Opportunities to build interdisciplinary collaborations and network connections through both research and teaching activities.

We Value Diversity and Sustainability

In alignment with our values, ETH Zurich promotes an inclusive culture that endorses equality of opportunity. We value diversity and strive to maintain a working and learning 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 grow and flourish. Sustainability is a core value for us, as we continuously work towards a climate-neutral future.

Curious? So Are We.

Apply online using the form below. Please ensure your application is written in English and includes the following documents:

• A motivation letter stating clearly the position and percentage role you are applying for.
• A Curriculum Vitae (maximum 5 pages).
• A portfolio that includes research and teaching samples (maximum 20 pages).
• Contact information for two references, at least one of whom should be academic.

Please note that only applications matching the job profile will be considered. For any further information or inquiries, contact Johanna Just at just@arch.ethz.ch.

About ETH Zurich

ETH Zurich is a leading university globally, specializing in science and technology. We are recognized for our exceptional education, pioneering research, and effective transfer of new knowledge into society. Our university, located in the heart of Europe, welcomes over 30,000 individuals from more than 120 countries, promoting independent thinking and an environment that inspires excellence. Together, we strive to develop solutions to the global challenges of today and tomorrow.