Teaching and Research Assistant (3 positions)
The Department of Architecture (D-ARCH) at ETH Zurich is among the world’s leading schools of architecture, known for its teaching as much as for its research. The Chair of Architectural Behaviorology, led by Prof. Momoyo Kaijima, is looking for new members to join its team. The following positions are open:
- Teaching Assistant, 40%, starting January 2027
- Research Assistant, 40%, starting January 2027
- Teaching Assistant, 40%, starting August 2027
Project background
Since 2017, the Chair of Architectural Behaviorology has been investigating architectural form through the lens of behaviors: the behavior of climate and materials, of humans and non-humans, and of architectural typologies. This approach aims to understand architecture within ecological networks, creating better accessibility to resources and finding shared commons. We see practice, research, and education as one integrated, cyclical activity in which theory and practice inform and shape one another.
Because architecture is grounded in specific places, we explore its relationship to regional lifestyles, including urban, mountainous, and agricultural contexts. In doing so, we address gaps in architectural discourse, particularly the divide between areas of consumption and production.
Our research projects include, for example, Swiss Window Journey, a study of window typologies across Switzerland, or Valley Section, a study of Swiss industrial heritage through territorial cross-sections. We also work on Housing, Shelter, and Care Behaviorology, which address domestic, post-disaster, and healthcare environments. Together with other ETH chairs, we have developed structural and spatial experiments rooted in Behaviorology.
In teaching, the Chair leads a second-year Design Studio, where around 70 students are introduced to the methodologies of Architectural Behaviorology and Actor Network Theory, as tools both for designing architecture and for understanding our built, lived, and social environment. Students gain hands-on experience in designing and drawing architectural projects, doing research, working in teams, building 1:1 structures, and presenting and defending their ideas.
You can find more information about the chair and the students’ work on our website.
Job description
As a teaching assistant (40%), you teach a combination of architectural design and research within the framework of Architectural Behaviorology. You understand students' ideas and help them develop their projects further. Your knowledge of structure, construction, and detailing lets you support them in these matters too, and your research-based thinking helps them find good, workable solutions to design problems. Studio days are Tuesdays and Wednesdays. Your tasks include:
- Preparation of materials and documents for the design studio
- Supporting the students in developing their projects
- Evaluating and grading student projects
- Holding short input lectures and workshops for the studio
As a research assistant (40%), you conduct research within the framework of Architectural Behaviorology. You work across a broad range of ongoing research projects on Window Behaviorology, Urban-Rural Commons, Housing in Switzerland, Architecture for Care, and others. Among other tasks, you organize workshops and seminar weeks, help edit and publish books, and arrange exhibitions.
Teaching and research assistant contracts are limited to one year, and can be renewed annually for up to 6 years.
Profile
You have
- A master’s degree in architecture
- Good knowledge of English and (Swiss) German: the design studios and research are mostly taught and led in English, while German is needed to work with local collaborators
- Solid knowledge of the Swiss architectural landscape, including construction, detailing, and the most common regulations
- A good understanding of architectural design practice, and of Swiss socio-economic, cultural, historical, and political context
- Residence in Switzerland, ideally in the Zurich area
Ideally, you also have
- 2-3 years of professional experience, including work on execution plans
- Knowledge of French or Italian
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
- 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 with the following documents, written in English:
- CV (max. 1 page)
- Portfolio with examples of your architectural work and research (max. 10 pages)
- Cover letter explaining your motivation and your interest in joining the Chair of Architectural Behaviorology (max. 1 page)
Further information about Department of Architecture can be found on our Website. Questions regarding the position should be directed to Samuel Dayer at dayer@arch.ethz.ch (no applications).
Please note that we exclusively accept applications submitted through our online application portal. Applications via email or postal services will not be considered.
The application deadline is 22 November 2026.
We would like to point out that the pre-selection is carried out by the responsible recruiters and not by artificial intelligence.
About ETH Zürich
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.
