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
Potential CO₂ Reduction through Logistics Optimization (Master's Student Internship / Master’s Thesis / Postdoc Project)
Z43 NetZero focuses on pragmatic, high impact approaches to CO₂ reduction that are technically feasible, economically robust, and deployable under constrained policy support. The position above involves quantitatively assessing the CO₂ reduction potential of specific logistics optimization measures (e.g., routing, consolidation, modal shift, fleet electrification) and deriving implementable strategies for Z43 NetZero, Z43 Alliance, and external stakeholders. These strategies should be formulated in a way that they can be operationalized and realized in a supporting software tool.
Your challenges:
- Review and structure logistics at Z43 Alliance and similar organizations into representative scenarios
- Build datasets and CO₂ baselines for each scenario (volumes, routes, vehicles, energy/fuel use)
- Quantitatively evaluate measures (routing, consolidation, modal shift, etc.) and estimate CO₂, cost, and operational impacts
- Develop a concise multi criteria framework and derive decision rules and workflows that can be encoded in software tools
- Produce simple software prototypes or templates, guidance material
- Produce a concise written report and a publication (or thesis) summarizing the findings
Your strengths:
- Bachelor’s degree in engineering, transportation, logistics, operations research, economics, or a related field; enrolment in or completion of an MSc or PhD is a plus
- Strong quantitative and programming skills (e.g., Python, MATLAB), with experience in data analysis
- Strong interest in logistics, mobility, and decarbonization, and ability to communicate clearly with both expert and non expert audiences
- High level of self motivation, organization, attention to detail, ability to work independently and in a multidisciplinary team, and proficiency in English (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 to contribute to concrete, implementable CO₂ reduction strategies that can ultimately be integrated into digital decision support solutions
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.
