Project Manager in Earth Observation and Biodiversity 40 - 100 %

Join an Innovative Research Environment

The University of Zurich, Switzerland's largest university, is dedicated to providing a stimulating workplace that fosters cutting-edge research and top-class education. With a diverse workforce of around 10,000 employees and offering 12 professional apprenticeship streams, UZH is committed to putting talent and skills to work in an inspiring environment.

Your Responsibilities

The role encompasses managing a European Space Agency (ESA)-funded project focused on the development and operationalization of a tool for calculating genetic diversity indicators. This tool supports, implements, and establishes biodiversity monitoring in line with the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework (GBF) on a global scale. Responsibilities include:

• Coordinating the project team
• Communicating with the ESA technical officer
• Managing interactions with tool users and demonstrating its usefulness through use cases
• Conducting outreach activities
• Collaborating with the larger Genes from Space initiative (www.genesfromspace.org)

Your Profile

The Remote Sensing Spectroscopy group within the Department of Geography at UZH seeks qualified candidates who hold a PhD or a master's degree in Earth Observation, Remote Sensing, or related fields. Ideal candidates should possess:

• Experience in processing satellite data, including land cover datasets and large time series
• Advanced programming skills, preferably in Python or R
• A background in ESA-type projects and project management
• Analytical and systematic thinking, supported by a solid mathematical background
• Innovative thinking, curiosity, and strong motivation for continuous learning
• Strong communication skills suitable for interdisciplinary collaboration and user-oriented interactions
• Preferable additional experience in areas such as biodiversity, genetic diversity, conservation, or spatial ecology

What We Offer

• Integration into a highly motivated and innovative project team
• Opportunity for technical development of tools and software for social relevance in applied research
• A flexible and agile work environment that encourages creative ideas
• An interdisciplinary team atmosphere promoting collaboration and support
• Insights into the space and biodiversity networks, including partnerships with ESA and GEO BON
• Opportunities to engage in outreach activities

Meredith Schuman
Professor for Spatial Genetics of Ecosystems
044635162