Head of the Climate and Agriculture research group

Zurich, planned place of work from 2028: Posieux (and working from home) | 80-100% (job sharing possible)

What you can contribute

• Leading the Climate and Agriculture research group
• Research, development and evaluation of measures to reduce the effects of climate change in agriculture as well as adaptation measures, with a particular focus on the role of soils as a source and/or sink of greenhouse gases
• Coordination of a call for research projects within the framework of the Agroscope activity program
• Knowledge transfer (participation in Agroscope bodies, exchanges with the relevant federal offices, representation of Agroscope at national and international events, supervision of young scientists)

What makes you unique

• PhD thesis in the field of climate sciences, ecology, environmental systems sciences, agronomic sciences or similar disciplines
• Strong interest in strategic research planning and the development of research projects. Ability for systemic reasoning allowing for the establishment of links between different research areas in agriculture
• Several years (< 5 years) of professional and management experience in the relevant field, leadership qualities, team spirit, interpersonal skills, creativity and a strong orientation towards goals and results
• Proven experience in seeking external funding
• Good knowledge of two official languages and English

In a few words

The Agroecology and Environment research area studies the impacts of agriculture on different environmental dimensions: climate, air, soils, biodiversity, nutrient cycles and water. Based on the principles of agroecology and using real data, it develops solutions for sustainable agriculture. Networking the different disciplines is essential here to identify synergies and conflicts of objectives.

What we offer

• Working for Switzerland We are committed to the success of the Swiss model and to the well-being of the population.
• Diversity in everyday life We ensure equal opportunities, which allows us to deploy our skills and express different points of view.
• Health at work We assist and advise our employees on all matters related to physical or mental health.

All benefits (https://www.stelle.admin.ch/stelle/fr/home/bundesverwaltung/ihre-vorteile-auf-einen-blick.html)

A good diet, a healthy environment

Agroscope is the Confederation's competence center for research in the fields of agriculture and the food industry. Researchers carry out their activities at various sites in Switzerland. The headquarters is located in Berne-Liebefeld (from 2026: Posieux FR). Agroscope is attached to the Federal Department of Economic Affairs, Education and Research DEFR.

Additional information

The Climate and Agriculture research group studies options to reduce greenhouse gas emissions from agriculture in the areas of soil, fertilization and through carbon sinks. It examines the chances and risks of climate change for crop production and evaluates adaptation possibilities. Furthermore, it is responsible for the inventory of greenhouse gases from Swiss agriculture.

Questions about the position

Lutz Merbold
Head of the Agroecology and Environment research area
+41 58 46 31517