About the Program
The Chair of Planning Landscape and Urban Systems (PLUS) at ETH Zurich invites applications for a 4-year fully funded PhD position within the SNF-funded National Research Programme NRP82 project NewUrbES – Co-creating new urban living space for biodiversity and ecosystem services. Under the supervision of Prof. Dr. Adrienne Grêt-Regamey, this interdisciplinary research combines urban ecology, architecture, material science, and landscape planning to create innovative, biodiverse urban environments. Based in Zurich, Switzerland, the project aims to develop novel building envelopes that integrate natural processes, supporting both human and non-human life. Using advanced ecosystem services modelling, 3D point cloud tools, and serious game development, the role offers collaboration with national academic and practice partners, shaping the future of sustainable urban design in Switzerland and beyond.
Program Details
- Position: Fully-funded PhD Position / Doctoral Researcher
- Institution: ETH Zurich
- Department/Faculty: Chair of Planning Landscape and Urban Systems (PLUS)
- Supervisor: Prof. Dr. Adrienne Grêt-Regamey
- Location: Zurich, Switzerland
- Start Date (Anticipated): November 2025 (flexible)
- Duration: 4 years
- Funding: Full funding, Salary rate 2 (in line with ETH Zurich standards and above SNF standards)
- Working Hours: Full-time (100%)
- Required Degree/Diploma: Master’s degree in environmental science, environmental engineering, landscape or urban science, geography, or related field
Research Focus/Area
- Urban and landscape planning
- Ecosystem services modelling for novel building contexts
- Biodiversity and ecosystem services in urban design
- Serious games for stakeholder engagement in urban transformation
Eligibility & Qualifications
Minimum Requirements:
- Master’s degree (or equivalent) in environmental science, environmental engineering, landscape or urban science, geography, or related field
- Experience in computer modelling, including Python and GIS
- Excellent communication skills in English
Preferred Qualifications:
- Proficiency in French and/or German (for stakeholder engagement)
- Research experience in interdisciplinary settings
- Strong analytical skills and data handling expertise
Key Features of the Program
- Cutting-edge interdisciplinary research environment
- Collaboration with national academic and practice partners
- Access to excellent computational and lab facilities
- Flexible working hours and option for home office
- Opportunities to influence policy and sustainable urban development in Switzerland
Application Process
How to Apply:
Submit your application through the ETH Zurich online application portal. Applications by email or post will not be considered.
Required Documents:
- Motivation letter (max. 2 pages)
- CV
- Writing sample (e.g., Master’s thesis)
- Contact information for two references
Important Dates
- Applications Open: Ongoing
- Deadline: 5 September 2025
- Interviews: To be confirmed
Where to Apply
- University Website: ETH Zurich
- Official Notification: ETH Zurich Chair of Planning Landscape and Urban Systems
- Application Portal: Apply Online
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