Scientific Assistant (Teaching and Research) in Landscape Architectural Design / Scientific Assistantess (Teaching and Research) in Landscape Architectural Design

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, running for nine months 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 engaged in research and teaching activities within the Master of Science in Landscape Architecture (MScLA) program. The Chair develops uniquely interdisciplinary design and history and theory research for landscape architecture. Through geohistorical practice, we integrate tools from the natural sciences and humanities to create proposals that encompass a variety of stakeholders and address urgent climate challenges. Our research bridges landscape architectural design with expanded considerations of history and theory, developing methodologies that merge digital sensing, drawing and modeling, archival research, and design practice for interpreting and adapting landscapes in transformation due to climate change.

One of the key teaching responsibilities of the Chair is to deliver the MScLA second-year advanced design studio. In this studio, students formulate large-scale landscape architecture proposals through directed research and iterative design studies. The studio methods incorporate fieldwork, archival and historical studies, and both digital and analogue design methods. Students are encouraged to consider the dynamic and transforming nature of landscapes in relation to their histories—both human and non-human—and their 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, there will be around 20 students per semester.

The ETH Master of Science in Landscape Architecture (MScLA) is an integral part of the Department of Architecture (D-ARCH), one of the world’s most prestigious faculties of architecture. Its esteemed reputation stems from both the superior quality of teaching and the exceptional results of research. The program prepares a new generation of landscape architects to resolve increasingly complex situations and unforeseen phenomena. By emphasizing observation, experimentation, and synthetic thinking, it empowers students to envision innovative and sustainable solutions at the scales of both city and landscape.

Job Description

We are looking for scientific assistants (40-80%) to support the team through research activities and to teach the MSc Landscape Architecture advanced design studio. Each task—research and teaching—individually constitutes a 40% role. Candidates may apply for one of the roles specifically (40%) or both roles (80%). Your tasks will include:

Research (40%):

• Collaborate closely with researchers within the chair and other groups to develop investigations and disseminate work publicly.
• Take constructive direction for research development while contributing independent ideas and motivation to the work.
• Conduct original research, including fieldwork, archival research, and design studies.
• Contribute to project management and timelines.
• Establish contacts and collaborations with other 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 conduct 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 conduct studio field trips.
• Coordinate with other related modules taught by the chair.

As a teaching assistant at the chair, you are expected to teach a combination of landscape architectural design and research. You must be able to understand the students' ideas and assist them in further developing their projects. Knowledge in the following areas is essential:

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

In addition, familiarity with research methodologies will enable you to support students in finding innovative solutions to design challenges. Studio days are typically Tuesdays and Wednesdays.

This scientific assistant position is fixed-term, with the possibility of 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 the future of landscape architecture. You should have:

• Experience in research and teaching.
• A strong curiosity for the natural sciences and an inclination towards interdisciplinary work.
• An interest in research-driven work that integrates conceptual thinking, experimentation, and making.
• Design experience in landscape architecture, with a master's degree in architecture or landscape architecture.
• The ability to teach and conduct research in English, as the design studios are conducted in English. Proficiency in German is desirable for research and collaboration with local partners.
• Previous experience in a landscape architecture office is preferable to aid students in project development.

Workplace

The workplace is located at ETH Zurich, an esteemed institution with a commitment to academic excellence and a focus on innovative solutions for global challenges.

What 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 engage in disciplinary research at 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 research and teaching activities.

We Value Diversity and Sustainability

ETH Zurich is committed to fostering an inclusive culture. We promote equality of opportunity, value diversity, and nurture a work environment that respects the rights and dignity of all staff and students. Sustainability is a core value for us, and we continuously strive towards a climate-neutral future.

Curious? So Are We.

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

• A motivation letter stating clearly which position and percentage role you are applying for: research assistant (40%), teaching assistant (40%), or combined research and teaching positions (80%) (1 page).
• A Curriculum Vitae (maximum of 5 pages).
• A portfolio that includes research and teaching samples (maximum of 20 pages).
• Contact information for two references, with at least one being academic, if possible.

Please note that only applications matching the job profile will be considered.

About ETH Zurich

ETH Zurich is one of the world's leading universities specializing in science and technology, known for its excellent education, cutting-edge fundamental research, and effective transfer of new knowledge into society. Over 30,000 individuals from more than 120 countries view our university as a place that promotes independent thinking and inspires excellence. Situated in the heart of Europe, we connect with partners around the globe to collaboratively develop solutions for today's and tomorrow's challenges.