Scientist focusing on biodiversity conservation in terrestrial ecosystems

80%-100%, Zurich, fixed-term

The Plant Ecological Genetics Group of the Swiss Federal Institute of Technology Zurich (ETH) invites applications for a scientist focusing on biodiversity conservation in terrestrial ecosystems.

Project background

The appointment is part of the research initiative “Translational Centre Biodiversity Conservation” (TCBC), funded by the ETH Board within the Strategic Area “Engagement and Dialogue with Society”. This initiative will be developed jointly by three ETH Domain institutions (WSL, Eawag, ETH Zürich) with the goal of providing conservation professionals (local, regional, and national authorities, planning offices and environmental consultancies, NGOs) with synthesized information on topics relevant to their daily work. The TCBC is steered by a board of practitioners, scientists, and the Centre Manager. The synthesis work will be carried out in topical working groups equally composed of scientists and practitioners. These working groups will be led by three postdoc-level scientists and the Centre Manager, each focusing on a particular field (terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems, policy and governance), but forming a closely collaborating team.

Job description

This specific position of the TCBC will focus on synthesis products in the realm of terrestrial ecosystems in Switzerland. The scientist will lead - together with a member of the Centre’s board - working groups that develop synthesis products and disseminate them actively to conservation stakeholders. She/he will also be involved in activities and publications concerning the whole Centre.

Your profile

  • You have earned a PhD degree in biology, environmental sciences or a related field, or a MSc degree with substantial professional experience and further education in conservation.
  • You should have a strong interest in collaborative work at the science-practice interface and a solid professional background in the ecology, biodiversity and conservation of terrestrial ecosystems.
  • Good management skills, the ability to work in a team and strong writing and communication capabilities are needed for this position.
  • It also requires good knowledge of at least one of the Swiss national languages and of English.
  • Previous experience with practical conservation and stakeholder interactions is an asset.

Your workplace

Your workplace




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.

If you are excited about working on this timely and challenging research topic within an interdisciplinary research team and with the excellent research facilities that we have to offer, then we are looking forward to hearing from you. The position is offered for 3 years and would ideally start on 1 May 2023 or as soon as possible thereafter.

We look forward to receiving your online application by 31 March 2023 with the following documents:

  • An application letter describing your interests, experience and their relevance to this position
  • Your CV with a publication list
  • Contact information for three references

Please note that we exclusively accept applications submitted through our online application portal. Applications via email or postal services will not be considered.

Further information about the organisational unit Plant Ecological Genetics can be found on our website www.peg.ethz.ch. Questions regarding the position should be directed to Prof. Alex Widmer (ETH Zürich D-USYS) by E-Mail to alex.widmer@usys.ethz.ch (no applications).

For recruitment services the GTC of ETH Zurich apply.

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.

Curious? So are we.

If you are excited about working on this timely and challenging research topic within an interdisciplinary research team and with the excellent research facilities that we have to offer, then we are looking forward to hearing from you. The position is offered for 3 years and would ideally start on 1 May 2023 or as soon as possible thereafter.

We look forward to receiving your online application by 31 March 2023 with the following documents:

  • An application letter describing your interests, experience and their relevance to this position
  • Your CV with a publication list
  • Contact information for three references

Please note that we exclusively accept applications submitted through our online application portal. Applications via email or postal services will not be considered.

Further information about the organisational unit Plant Ecological Genetics can be found on our website www.peg.ethz.ch. Questions regarding the position should be directed to Prof. Alex Widmer (ETH Zürich D-USYS) by E-Mail to alex.widmer@usys.ethz.ch (no applications).

For recruitment services the GTC of ETH Zurich apply.

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.