Collection management and digitalisation of macro-invertebrate fossils, non-tenured position

Department of Palaeontology

Collection management and digitalisation of macro-invertebrate fossils, non-tenured position (maximum 3 years) 80 %

Start of employment 1. June 2026, temporary

Palaeontology forms the interface between biology and earth sciences. Its aim is to uncover the mechanisms of diversification and extinction of organisms and to document their patterns, thereby contributing to our current understanding of biodiversity. The rich collection includes unique pieces from the Middle Triassic UNESCO World Heritage Site of Monte San Giorgio. A magnet for scientific visitors from all over the world.

Your responsibilities

You will coordinate and carry out the curation of parts of the Department's invertebrate collection in need of improved documentation, including SQL-based database entry, verification and correction of taxonomic determinations, digital imaging and 3D surface rendering of specimens, identifying material, and contributing to scientific project development with Department researchers.

Collections that need work include:

• Mesozoic cephalopods (mostly Middle Triassic to Late Jurassic)
• Jurassic echinoderms
• Regional collections from Swiss localities (Jura, Ticino)

Research leading to publications in parallel to the curatorial work is encouraged, but it is secondary to the main tasks of this position.

Your profile

• Completed (professional) university degree (MSc or PhD) in either Geosciences or Biosciences
• Experience with one or several of the fields of invertebrate macrofossils, digitalisation, and research in invertebrate palaeontology
• Proficiency with computer-based standard programs and willingness to work with databases
• Independent, structured, careful and committed way of working and communication
• Previous experience in collections-based work is an asset

Information on your application

The University of Zurich actively promotes equal opportunities in order to offer a diverse workplace and is characterised by an open and inclusive approach. Zurich consistently ranks among the world's most liveable cities, offering exceptional quality of life, excellent public transport, diverse cultural opportunities and immediate access to lakes, forests and the Alps. It is an international, safe and vibrant environment ideally suited for both professional and personal development. We are looking forward to your application. Please submit all documents other than your thesis as a single PDF file including the following documents:

• Cover letter in English (max 1,000 words), including a brief presentation of yourself and your qualifications, as well as a short description of why you are interested in the job
• Curriculum Vitae, with a publication list where applicable
• Your Master (or PhD, if completed) thesis in the field of palaeontology, geology, earth sciences, evolutionary biology, zoology or a closely related field
• Copies of your degrees
• Contact details including the addresses of two referees
• A statement of how you plan to improve the conditions of our collections and how it can be used in research and outreach more efficiently

Applicants will be assessed based on criteria such as experience with invertebrate macrofossils, digitalisation, research in invertebrate palaeontology. Top-ranked candidates will be invited for an interview.

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
Department of Palaeontology

Karl-Schmid-Strasse 4, 8006 Zürich, Switzerland

Further information
Questions about the job

Christian Klug

Curator

Working at UZH

The University of Zurich, Switzerland's largest university, offers a range of attractive positions in various subject areas and professional fields. With around 10,000 employees and currently 12 professional apprenticeship streams the University offers an inspiring working environment on cutting-edge research and top-class education. Put your talent and skills to work with us. Find out more about UZH as an employer

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