Head of the Climate and Agriculture research group

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

Your contribution

• Take over the direction of the Climate and Agriculture research group
• Deal with the research, development and evaluation of climate change mitigation and adaptation measures in agriculture, including the role of soil as a source and/or sink of greenhouse gases
• Coordinate a research call within the scope of the Agroscope work program
• Provide for knowledge transfer (participation in Agroscope committees, exchange with competent federal offices, representation of Agroscope at national and international events as well as mentoring young researchers)

What distinguishes you

• Completed research doctorate in: climate sciences, ecology, environmental system sciences, agricultural sciences or similar disciplines
• Interest in strategic research planning and the development of research projects. Ability to adopt an interdisciplinary vision and to create connections between different areas of agricultural research
• Several years of professional and managerial experience (<5 years) in the area of expertise, strong leadership skills, predisposition to work within a team, good communication, determination in achieving goals and results as well as creativity
• Consolidated skills in acquiring external funding
• Good knowledge of two official languages and English

In summary

The Agroecology and environment research sector studies the effects of agriculture on different environmental dimensions: climate, air, soil, biodiversity, nutrient cycles and water. Based on the principles of agroecology and using real data, solutions for sustainable agriculture are developed. The interconnection between different disciplines is essential to identify synergies and conflicting objectives.

What we offer

• Working for Switzerland We strive for the successful Swiss model and work for the well-being of the population.
• Living diversity The implementation of equal opportunities allows us to best express our skills and to consider different points of view.
• Fit at the workplace We provide support and advice to our female and male employees on the issue of physical and mental health.

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

Eating well in a healthy environment

Agroscope is the Confederation's competence center for research in the agri-food sector and belongs to the Federal Department of Economic Affairs, Education and Research (EAER). Researchers carry out their activities in several locations in Switzerland, the main one is located in Bern-Liebefeld (Posieux FR from 2026).

Complementary information

The Climate and Agriculture research group explores the possibilities of reducing greenhouse gas emissions in agriculture in the area of soil, fertilization and carbon sinks. It studies the opportunities and risks of climate change for agricultural production and evaluates adaptation possibilities. It is also responsible for the Swiss greenhouse gas inventory in agriculture.

Questions about the workplace

Lutz Merbold
Head of the Agroecology and environment research sector
+41 58 46 31517

Questions about the application