The clinic manages approximately 3,000 cases annually, with roughly 80% client-owned animals and 20% wildlife. The caseload consists of approximately 50% exotic pet mammals, 30% avian species, and 20% reptiles and other taxa (including fish and invertebrates). About 70% of cases are first-opinion, while 30% are referrals. Our clinic also delivers comprehensive veterinary care to Zurich Zoo, Wild Animal Park Langenberg, and Wild Animal Park Winterthur. Our team includes seven veterinarians (three of whom hold ACZM/ECZM double diplomate certification), two ACZM General Zoo Health residents, one intern, and three veterinary technicians. An ACZM Exotic Companion Animal Medicine residency program is approved and may be filled in the near future. The clinic is part of the Department of Small Animal Medicine at the University Animal Hospital, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Zurich, and collaborates closely with specialty services such as radiology, cardiology, dermatology, neurology, surgery, internal medicine, and anesthesiology. We also play an active role in training veterinary students during clinical rotations

Key Responsibilities

• Organization of processes, planning and participation in the clinical exotic pet medicine service at the Clinic for Zoo Animals, Exotic Pets, and Wildlife
• Depending on qualifications: assistance with veterinary care for the animal collections at Zurich Zoo and regional wildlife parks
• Training and supervision of veterinary students in clinical rotation and residents/assistants, and organization of internal continuing education at the clinic
• Active participation in research and teaching activities

Candidate Profile

• DVM degree with at least 5 years of clinical experience
• Diplomate status or eligibility for certification by the American or European College of Zoological Medicine (ACZM, ECZM) is preferred but not mandatory
• Strong clinical expertise in exotic pet medicine, and possibly zoo animal medicine
• Experience and enthusiasm for conducting and contributing to research
• Genuine motivation to teach, with excellent organizational and leadership skills
• Fluency in German is essential. Candidates who convincingly demonstrate their strong commitment and ability to learn German promptly will also be considered

Employment Conditions

• Salary will be determined in accordance with the University of Zurich’s employment regulations. On average, a starting annual salary (gross) of CHF 110,000 can be expected, but the exact amount will depend on the candidate’s formal qualifications and experience
• Benefits include professional liability, pension fund, and unemployment insurances. Health insurance (approx. CHF 5,000/year) and diploma recognition (for foreign diplomas) are the employee’s responsibility
• Twenty-five days of annual leave are provided
• After-hours emergencies are handled by the emergency service, so there are no regular night shifts. Emergency duties are limited to on-call shifts approximately every 4–5 weeks. Flexibility and willingness to work extended hours when needed are required

This position offers excellent opportunities for further professional development in exotic animal medicine and can serve as a foundation for an academic career, depending on the candidate’s aspirations