Postdoctoral Researcher at Construction Heritage and Preservation

100%, Zurich, fixed-term

The Professorship of Construction Heritage and Preservation is currently searching for a postdoctoral researcher to start in September 2026 or upon agreement.

Project background

The Professorship of Construction Heritage and Preservation engages with theoretical and practical challenges of methodical collecting, assessing and preserving of monuments. It is affiliated with the Institute for Preservation and Construction History (IDB) as well as the Institute for Technology in Architecture (ITA) .

Knowledge of traditional construction methods, materials, architectural design principles and building processes is essential for a professional and responsible handling of historic buildings. With regard to the future development of the building stock it seems equally important to consider younger and even current processes. New building materials, construction methods and ’trends’ are increasingly affecting architecture and an accelerated implementation of new ideas and technologies can be recognised in the building sector. Currently, there is a lack of knowledge about the aging and reparability of such new constructions and research on long-term consequences for the building stock seems inadequate.

Research focusses on diverse building stocks, both older and younger (as well as very young), questions of their value as monuments and challenges concerning their conservation. Within this context, the structurally outstanding engineering works in Switzerland as well as the built examples of newly developed construction processes and methods are of special interest. Teaching activities include elective courses and core seminars which allow students to study and discuss current issues in-depth. The lecture concentrates on the theoretical and practical basics of preservation. Furthermore, the professorship offers the academic continuing education programs which comprehensively and methodologically combine high academic standards with practical relevance and impart specific professional skills.

Job description

As a postdoctoral researcher, your responsibilities will include:

• Formulating and writing proposals for research grant applications (SNF, Innosuisse, EU Horizon, etc.)
• Contributing to ongoing research projects, including scientific publication efforts
• Co-leading publication projects
• Supporting teaching activities within the professorship, including further education programmes (MAS/CAS)
• Supporting the supervision of doctoral researchers within the professorship, and
• Taking on short- and medium-term projects within the framework of the Competence Center for Preservation at IDB

Profile

• You have a Master’s degree and a PhD in architecture, civil engineering, art history or technology history, or related fields
• You have experience of applying for and successfully obtaining third-party funding for research projects
• Knowledge of Swiss and international architectural heritage and building cultures is an asset
• You can demonstrate excellent written and oral communication skills in German and English

Workplace

We offer

• Your job with impact: Become part of ETH Zurich, which not only supports your professional development, but also actively contributes to positive change in society
• An interdisciplinary and diverse team of researchers in the fields of architecture, preservation, art and architectural history, building research, innovative building technologies and sustainability.
• You can expect numerous benefits , such as public transport season tickets and car sharing, a wide range of sports offered by the ASVZ , childcare and attractive pension benefits

Working, teaching and research at ETH Zurich

We value diversity and sustainability

In line with our values , ETH Zurich encourages an inclusive culture. We promote equality of opportunity, value diversity and nurture a working and learning environment in which the rights and dignity of all our staff and students are respected. Visit our Equal Opportunities and Diversity website to find out how we ensure a fair and open environment that allows everyone to grow and flourish. Sustainability is a core value for us - we are consistently working towards a climate-neutral future .

Curious? So are we.

We look forward to receiving your online application in German or English until May 31st, 2026. The following documents are required:

• Cover letter
• CV
• List of publications
• Documentation of completed and/or ongoing research projects
• References or letters of recommendation
• Certificate confirming PhD degree / Proof of dissertation

Please apply exclusively via the online application portal. Applications sent by e-mail or by post will not be considered.

For further information, please visit our website or contact Mr. Orkun Kasap (Senior Assistant), Tel. 0041 (0)44 633 63 94 or email E-Mail schreiben (Please do not send any application documents).

Apply online now

ETH Zurich is one of the world’s leading universities specialising in science and technology. We are renowned for our excellent education, cutting-edge fundamental research and direct transfer of new knowledge into society. Over 30,000 people from more than 120 countries find our university to be a place that promotes independent thinking and an environment that inspires excellence. Located in the heart of Europe, yet forging connections all over the world, we work together to develop solutions for the global challenges of today and tomorrow.