Postdoctoral researcher in Transport and Mobility Planning

100%, Zurich, fixed-term

Prof. Eva Heinen is seeking ambitious a postdoctoral researcher to join her research group at the Institute for Transport Planning and Systems, Department of Transportation and Mobility Planning.

Project background

Prof. Heinen’s group aims to expand causal knowledge on travel behaviour and behavioural change in the field of transport by conducting empirical research and combining different research disciplines. A key research focus is to conduct natural experimental studies and to develop a panel. The research is conceptually driven, and empirical. The motivation for our research is to enhance resilience in urban areas in terms of well-being, performance, sustainability, and health.

Candidates should have an interest in the core research areas of Prof. Heinen’s research group including:

• The impact of the built environment on mobility
• Travel behaviour
• Active travel and micro-mobility
• Urban logistics
• Inequalities, both between socio-economic groups, but also spatial differences such as urban and rural residents

Other research topics are welcome, as long as they match the group leader’s general vision and are complementary to the group’s core research areas. A key task will be to set up data collections.

Job description

• Participation in (ongoing) research projects and support for the acquisition of new research projects. This includes data collection, analyses, and acquisition
• Contribution to teaching and examinations
• Authorship and successful publication of research papers in high-impact research journals
• Active participation both within the research group and via (inter)national networks and conferences
• Participation in the organizational and administrative tasks of the institute

Your profile

(I) Requirements:

• PhD degree in a related field of above-average quality
• Experience with publishing in high-quality journals
• Very good knowledge of spoken and written English
• Good data-handling skills and Experience with collecting own data  (e.g. questionnaires; measurements)
• Innovative ideas that can contribute to the group as well as develop into independence
• Knowledge of programming or data analysis and willingness to familiarize yourself further with scientific software packages (e.g. scripting languages, GIS software, MATLAB, R, ...)
• Interest and ability in working with students
• Ability to work in a team, problem-solving skills and ability to self-organize and take personal responsibility in the fulfillment of tasks
• Good communication skills

(II) Desired skills and qualifications:

• Experience with simulation programs, big data analyses, or qualitative analyses. N.B. it is not expected/desired that you have experience with all of these methods/programs 
• Very good German language skills (B2) or the willingness to gain sufficient knowledge in written and spoken German within the first year(s)
• Active presence in international networks
• Experience with developing networks with stakeholders

With the social and leadership competencies , ETH Zurich has developed a common understanding for a shared work culture. Kindly try to incorporate these six competencies into your recruitment.

Your workplace

Your workplace

We offer

This position will be available, with an ideal starting date between July 2024 and September 2024, or further upon agreement; the planned duration of the initial contract is one year, to be extended based on successful performance.

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Curious? So are we.

We look forward to receiving your online application with the following documents:

•  A (short) letter of motivation. The goal of your letter of motivation should be to help us gauge your interest and motivation in pursuing research in transport and mobility planning at the ETH Zürich
• CV, including publications
• The names and email addresses of people (min 2) who could provide a reference (letter)
• Two key outputs

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 institute can be found on our website  and about Prof. Dr. Eva Heinen . Questions regarding the position should be directed to Prof. Dr. Eva Heinen [email protected] (no applications).

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.