The Foundation for Research on Information Technologies in Society (IT'IS), an independent, nonprofit research organization closely associated with the Swiss Federal Institute of Technology (ETH) Zurich, in collaboration with the Z43 NetZero Foundation (Z43 NetZero), is currently seeking applicants for the position

Achieving Net Zero with Biodiversity (Master's Student Internship / Master’s Thesis / Postdoc Project)

Z43 NetZero recognizes that biodiversity plays a critical role in achieving net zero. Beyond its primary focus on CO₂ reduction, Z43 NetZero is therefore broadening its impact areas to include biodiversity. The position above involves systematically reviewing and assessing strategies and mechanisms for mainstreaming biodiversity into climate action towards net zero, and evaluating their performance and scalability, with particular attention to implementation and uptake in Switzerland. This is a fixed-term position.

Your challenges:

• Conduct a comprehensive global review of published information (publications, reports, etc.) on existing mechanisms for nature-based CO₂ emission compensation or mitigation, including ecological (e.g., nature-based solutions), financial (e.g., biodiversity credits), institutional (e.g., nature positive commitments), and strategic (e.g., mitigation hierarchy) approaches, including their context-dependent enabling mechanisms
• Develop a structured comparison framework covering CO₂ emission compensation or mitigation potential, risks, feasibility, scalability, and costs
• Evaluate the applicability of individual mechanisms and solutions within the Swiss context and across sectors
• Translate findings into actionable recommendations for Z43 NetZero’s financial investment in biodiversity-based mechanisms, including quantified estimates of expected contribution to net zero
• Produce a concise written report and publication summarizing the research results and findings

Your strengths:

• Bachelor’s degree (or equivalent) in environmental sciences (including biodiversity, ecology, etc.), sustainability, economics, or a related field; candidates pursuing or holding an MSc or PhD are particularly encouraged to apply
• Knowledge of climate and biodiversity agendas and policies in Switzerland and worldwide
• Capacity to rapidly identify and fill knowledge gaps in relevant fields
• Experience in conducting literature reviews and comparative analysis
• Strong analytical skills and ability to synthesize complex, multi-source information and datasets into clear insights
• Clear written and verbal communication skills, with ability to tailor information to both expert and non-expert audiences
• Strong sense of responsibility and commitment to the highest quality standards of work
• Self-motivated with good organizational skills, and impeccable attention to detail
• Friendly personality with strong team spirit
• Ability to work independently and meet tight deadlines
• Proficiency in English (both written and spoken)

Our offer:

• Vibrant, multicultural, and innovative work environment that drives research in key technologies and fosters diversity and inclusion
• Creative mix of global talents that span the fields of physics, electronics, mathematics, biology, and related disciplines, striving for scientific excellence and high ethical standards
• Flexible working hours at a workplace in the heart of Zurich
• Opportunity to help shape the strategic direction of Z43 NetZero and contribute to meaningful climate action towards net zero

Applications will be accepted until the position is filled. Direct applications are preferred; applications submitted via recruitment agencies are discouraged. Please note that incomplete applications will be disregarded.

Please send your application documents (in English) consisting of motivational letter, tailored CV (max 2 pages), diplomas, transcripts (with grades), work certificates and/or reference letters (if available) to:

Zurich43, Yvonne Maeder, Zeughausstrasse 43, 8004 Zurich, Switzerland, Phone: +41 44 245 96 96, jobs@z43.swiss

Informal inquiries are welcome and should be directed to Prof. Niels Kuster.