Postdoc in digital ecosystems for coordinated and equitable biodiversity governance

100%, Zurich, fixed-term

The Environmental Policy Lab at ETH Zurich is seeking a creative and interdisciplinary postdoctoral researcher to join our group! This position offers the opportunity to pursue independent research while contributing to ongoing projects exploring how digital ecosystems are reshaping environmental decision-making. We welcome applicants from a wide range of disciplines who are interested in how digital technologies influence coordination, accountability, and justice in efforts to move towards a more sustainable biosphere.

Project background

This postdoc position contributes to a broader research agenda focused on how digital infrastructure and computational tools can support (or hinder) progress toward effective, coordinated, and equitable biodiversity governance. Research topics may include:

how digital ecosystems shape collective environmental action
how institutional designs, governance structures, and policy influence data stewardship
how technology policy affects the development and use of biodiversity data infrastructures
how justice considerations can be integrated into global biodiversity monitoring and decision support systems

The postdoc role is designed to offer both intellectual freedom and opportunities for impact on biodiversity and technology governance challenges.

Job description

The position offers flexibility to shape the research and specific responsibilities, and encourages creativity in defining the scope, contributions, and direction of the work. Potential responsibilities include:

Developing and applying computational models to explore cooperation, information sharing, and biodiversity policy implementation
Investigating how decentralized or distributed data infrastructures can enable more equitable, transparent, and resilient biodiversity governance
Engaging with international processes related to biodiversity, data, and AI policy
Leading and contributing to peer-reviewed publications, collaborative research projects, and funding proposals
Presenting research at international conferences, workshops, and policy forums
Collaborating with interdisciplinary teams and supporting the mentorship of junior researchers

Profile

We welcome applicants from a wide range of disciplinary backgrounds, including but not limited to environmental policy, political science, science and technology studies, public policy, data science, computer science, and international relations. The ideal candidate will bring a strong interest in the role of data and technology in shaping environmental governance.

We are looking for someone who:

Holds a PhD (or will have completed one before the start date) in a relevant field
Brings expertise in at least one of the following areas: environmental governance, data governance, technology policy, simulation-based modeling (e.g., agent-based models, MARL), data science, or policy analysis
Has an interest in interdisciplinary research that connects technical, policy, and ethical dimensions of environmental challenges
Has experience with or interest in studying collective action and information-sharing systems
Demonstrates strong writing and communication skills in English
Shows intellectual curiosity and a creative approach to problem-solving

Workplace

We offer

The Environmental Policy Lab provides a supportive environment for interdisciplinary and creative research. We offer:

Mentorship and support for developing an independent research agenda and securing future funding
Collaboration opportunities with international research and policy networks
Access to ETH’s world-class computing infrastructure and research facilities
Access to research funding for project costs, conference travel, and collaboration opportunities
Flexible start date and potential for contract extension

The position is based at ETH Zurich’s central campus. The initial appointment is for one year, with the possibility of a one to two year extension. Employment will follow ETH Zurich’s standard regulations for postdoctoral researchers.

Working, teaching and research at ETH Zurich

We value diversity

In line with our values, ETH Zurich encourages an inclusive culture. We promote equality of opportunity, value diversity and nurture a working and learning environment in which the rights and dignity of all our staff and students are respected. Visit our Equal Opportunities and Diversity website to find out how we ensure a fair and open environment that allows everyone to grow and flourish.

Curious? So are we.

We look forward to receiving your online application! Please upload the following documents as a single PDF file:

A cover letter outlining your background, interests, and motivation for applying to this position (1 page)
A research statement outlining your relevant experience and interests (< 2 pages)
Curriculum vitae (CV)
A writing sample (e.g., publication or working paper) AND/OR other work sample (creative outputs are very welcome!)
Contact information for two academic or professional references

Please note that we only accept applications submitted through our online portal. Applications sent by email or post will not be considered. Please submit your application by 22 August 2025 for full consideration.

Further information about the Environmental Policy Lab can be found at: www.epl.ethz.ch. Questions regarding the position should be directed to Prof. Melissa Chapman at melissa.chapman@usys.ethz.ch (please do not send applications via email).

Note that the pre-selection process is carried out by the responsible recruiters and not by artificial intelligence.

About ETH Zürich

ETH Zurich is one of the world’s leading universities specialising in science and technology. We are renowned for our excellent education, cutting-edge fundamental research and direct transfer of new knowledge into society. Over 30,000 people from more than 120 countries find our university to be a place that promotes independent thinking and an environment that inspires excellence. Located in the heart of Europe, yet forging connections all over the world, we work together to develop solutions for the global challenges of today and tomorrow.