Join ETH Zürich’s Mission to Redesign Urban Ecosystems: PhD Opportunity in Regenerative Materials

Are you passionate about sustainability, biodiversity, and transforming how we design cities? ETH Zürich’s Chair of Sustainable Construction invites applications for a funded PhD position under the National Research Programme NRP82 project NewUrbES – Co-creating New Urban Living Spaces for Biodiversity and Ecosystem Services.

This interdisciplinary, transdisciplinary research aims to radically shift the function of urban infrastructure—reimagining it as more-than-human habitats. You’ll focus on the material dimension of this transformation, evaluating and designing building materials that support biodiversity and enhance ecosystem services.

Your research will span three main areas:

• Biodiversity Footprint Assessment: Developing hybrid LCA tools to quantify biodiversity impacts across material life cycles.

• Ecosystem Services Evaluation: Studying how construction materials can aid urban ecological functions like water retention and habitat creation.

• Regenerative Material Prototyping: Designing and testing nature-based building materials that support ecological resilience.

As part of a dynamic and international team, you will work closely with experts in ecology, architecture, and urban planning, as well as real-world stakeholders. This PhD offers access to cutting-edge labs, collaboration across Swiss institutions, and a meaningful role in shaping sustainable urban futures.

Who should apply?
Candidates with a Master’s in civil/environmental engineering, material science, ecology, or environmental systems are encouraged to apply. Prior experience in life cycle assessment (LCA), ecosystem modeling, or material analysis is a significant asset. A collaborative mindset, curiosity for cross-disciplinary work, and strong communication skills (English mandatory; French/German desirable) are essential.

Why ETH Zürich?
Ranked among the world’s best universities, ETH offers a vibrant, inclusive, and flexible research environment. Enjoy perks like flexible hours, a collaborative atmosphere, and involvement in projects that influence policy and practice both locally and globally.

How to Apply
Submit your application by September 5, 2025 via ETH Zürich’s official online portal. Include your motivation letter, CV, writing sample (e.g. Master’s thesis), and two reference contacts. Applications via email or post will not be considered.

Start date is expected around November 1, 2025, though flexible. For further inquiries (not applications), contact Prof. Dr. Guillaume Habert at [email protected].

This is your opportunity to design the cities of tomorrow—spaces that thrive for all species. 🌿🏙️