Research Assistant for Climate Neutrality Project

**Strategic Projects of the University** **Research Assistant for Climate Neutrality Project 20 - 40 %**: Start of employment as soon as possible, temporary The "Decarb UZH Climate Neutrality 2030" project aims to contribute to achieving the University of Zurich's climate neutrality goal by 2030. This will be accomplished through scientific analyses, establishing reduction pathways (especially for impact categories where none currently exist), planning and implementing concrete measures, and building an efficient data management system. Currently, the focus is on the impact categories of energy, air travel, catering, and waste. Four initial task forces are planned: - Task Force Energy - Task Force Air Travel - Task Force Catering - Task Force Waste **Your responsibilities**: - The Research Assistant will play a critical role in supporting the Project Leader for Climate Neutrality in advancing the University of Zurich's decarbonization efforts. This position offers a unique opportunity to develop applied quantitative and analytical skills in sustainability, providing a powerful stepping stone for ambitious academic careers or careers in industry and consulting. 1. Data Analysis & Tool Development - Assist in the creation and refinement of a marginal abatement cost curve (MACC) tool. - Collect and synthesize data from diverse task forces, including energy, catering, air travel, and waste management. - Perform power calculations for randomized intervention studies to evaluate potential research projects and strategies. - Support data management strategy (sustainability dashboard and AI-enhanced green public procurement to reduce Scope 3 emissions). 2. Research & Knowledge Synthesis - Conduct concise literature reviews on decarbonization techniques and climate neutrality strategies, for example Sustainable Aviation Fuels. - Initiate, lead, and review applied research projects aimed at supporting the university's climate neutrality objectives, for example on the LEAF Program. **Your profile**: - 1. Educational Background - Ideally Master's degree (completed or ongoing) in environmental sciences, economics, computer science, statistics, or a related field. 2. Skills & Competencies - Strong quantitative and analytical skills. - Proficiency in data analysis tools (e.g., STATA, R, and/or Python) as well as visualization tools (Tableau, PowerBI, MS Excel (incl. VBA)). - Excellent organizational skills with an ability to manage multiple priorities. - Strong written and verbal communication skills, ideally in both German and English. 3. Personal Attributes - Highly motivated, proactive, and results-oriented. - Collaborative team player with a growth mindset. - Ability to work independently and deliver high-quality outputs. **What we offer**: **Work-Life Balance** - Flexible working models (such as part-time positions, mobile working, job-sharing) - Childcare at the kihz foundation of UZH and ETH **Learning and Development** - Wide range of continuing education courses of UZH and the Canton of Zurich - Language Center run jointly with ETH Zurich **Food** - Food and drinks at reduced prices in the UZH cafeterias - Lunch-Check-card with UZH contribution **Healthcare** - Special conditions on the Academic Sports Association ASVZ - Free seasonal flu vaccinations - Rest and relaxation at the quiet room in the university tower **Discounts** - Private traffic: Carsharing, rent a vehicle, parking space - Digitalization: Hardware, software, mobile phone subscriptions - Special conditions on hotel reservations **Conditions of Employment** - Policies of the UZH - Most UZH staff are employed according to public law **International Services** - Support for people from outside Switzerland **Campuses** - Campuses Zurich City, Zurich Irchel, Oerlikon and Schlieren - Sites Zurich West, Old Botanical Garden, Botanical Garden and Lengg **Location**: **Strategic Projects of the University***:Künstlergasse 15, 8001 Zürich, Switzerland **Further information**: **Questions about the job**: **Nils Handler** - Project Leader Climate Neutrality Project **Working at UZH**: