Scientific Assistant in Transdisciplinary Research and the Science-Policy Dialogue

80%, Zurich, fixed-term

The Transdisciplinarity Lab (TdLab) develops and implements transdisciplinary teaching and research to support the sustainable development of society. Transdisciplinarity means focusing on societal problems and collaborating across disciplinary boundaries and between sciences and society. TdLab is part of ETH Zurich’s Department of Environmental Systems Science (D-USYS) .

Project background

The Engage project, led by the Swiss Federal Institute of Aquatic Science and Technology (EAWAG), aims to create a dialogue platform for a science-based discussion of complex trade-offs related to pressing societal problems amongst relevant stakeholders. Over the period of 2023 to 2025, a consortium of Swiss research institutes will develop different tools and structures to facilitate this dialogue. 

Job description

The two main tasks of this 80% position are to take care of the diverse stakeholder interactions of Engage and to help establish Engage’s science-policy platform. In terms of content, the focus will be on the science-policy dialogue in general as well as on two specific case studies in the context of plant breeding, sustainability, biodiversity and climate change. You will

• help review different ways of organising the science-policy interface,
• identify stakeholders with which Engage should enter into dialogue
• organise, run and analyse dialogue events that bring together Engage researchers with policymakers and other stakeholders
• help develop an existing or build a new platform, specifically designed for the science-policy dialogue on issues requiring trade-offs

The primary workplace is at the TdLab at ETH Zurich with a second place in the Engage dialogue hub at Eawag. The position is limited to 3 years. The start of employment is in the first quarter of 2023.

Your profile

• You have a master's degree in environmental or sustainability sciences or in social sciences with a focus on sustainability.
• Experiences in transdisciplinary research and/or in working with diverse stakeholder groups are welcome.
• You find social contacts with various stakeholder groups easy, are not afraid to get involved in highly controversial social issues and have a genuine interest in creating a dialogue between the various stakeholder groups and researchers.
• Very good oral and written German or French and English are a prerequisite.
• Ease with a second national language is an asset.

Your workplace

Your workplace

We offer

The TdLab offers a working environment leading in methods and theories of transdisciplinary research and teaching and the freedom to question and further develop transdisciplinarity. Your working colleagues come from different disciplines. They are all committed to the further development of transdisciplinary teaching and research and to a more sustainable society.

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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 with the following documents:

• Motivation letter
• CV
• Certificates of Bachelor's and Master degree
• If available, employer’s 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 TdLab can be found on our website . Questions regarding the position should be directed to Christian Pohl, Tel [0041 (0)44 632 63 10] or email [[email protected] ] (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.