The Chair of Circular Engineering for Architecture (CEA) is seeking a highly motivated and qualified senior scientific assistant in the field of digital technologies for circular economy in the construction sector. The successful candidate will join a dynamic research team working on innovative approaches to enhance circular construction practices. This position offers a unique opportunity to lead innovation projects for the development of tools and strategies that promote circular management of building components and projects, enabling a more sustainable and regenerative built environment.

The SWIRCULAR project advances circular construction in Switzerland by integrating data, processes, and tools to establish new circular flows in practice. It coordinates efforts across various research groups from different Swiss research institutions and more than 20 companies, bringing together expertise in engineering, law, architecture, and manufacturing to address technical, legal, and business challenges.

Your responsibilities will include:

• Manage and coordinate complex projects and large consortia
• Oversee collaboration across a large network, including research groups from different institutions and implementation partners (industry, NGOs etc.)
• Organize and moderate meetings, gatherings, and steering committee sessions
• Manage budget and financial planning
• Supervise a team of researchers, including onboarding and task allocation
• Lead communication efforts, including website updates, newsletters, and social media
• Represent the project and the Chair at events, including presentation engagements
• Coordinate grant applications and liaison with funding agencies
• Engage with industry partners and support new partnerships
• Participate in recruitment efforts as needed

To be considered for this position, you should meet the following qualifications:

• MSc or PhD in civil engineering, architecture, or a related field
• Several years of experience in industry (architecture, civil engineering, sustainable construction) as a project manager and/or in research
• Strong project management skills, including coordinating large teams and complex projects
• Experience with budgeting, planning, and securing funding from industry and grants
• Excellent communication and presentation skills for internal and external stakeholders
• Fluency in spoken and written English; German and/or French are a plus
• Strong presentation skills and experience in grant and publication writing
• Ability to engage with industry partners and facilitate research-to-innovation transfer
• Pragmatic approach to stakeholder engagement and high-impact project development
• Proactive, results-oriented, professional, well-organized, and creative team player

Joining our research team offers a stimulating and collaborative environment, with a competitive salary and opportunities for professional growth and interaction with international experts in the field of circular construction. The position is full-time (100%) and is offered on a fixed-term basis. The initial contract duration is 1 year, with a possibility of extension based performance evaluation.

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.

Applications are only accepted through the online portal and should contain the following documents (make sure your last name is on all the documents and in the file name) by 15.04.2025 or until the position is filled. Only PDF format will be accepted. Anything submitted in other formats will result in the rejection of your application. Any application that is not complete will not be considered.

• Cover letter (max 1 page)
• CV including a list of publications
• Academic transcripts/list of courses completed or ongoing, including grades and ranking in PDF format (please upload a single PDF)
• A digital copy of university degree(s) in PDF format
• Name, phone number, and email address of two referees in PDF
• A Vimeo or YouTube link to a 2-minute video where you guide us through your professional profile and interests (please upload a PDF with the link written in full)

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

For further questions please contact us via email at cea-recruiting@ibi.baug.ethz.ch (no applications). More information about the Circular Engineering for Architecture Lab in the Institute of Construction & Infrastructure Management (IBI) within the Department of Civil, Environmental and Geomatic Engineering (D-BAUG) is on our website. Any emails that are not addressed to cea-recruiting@ibi.baug.ethz.ch regarding the position will not be answered.

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.