Doctoral Students in Production Management
The Chair of Production and Operations Management (POM) (Prof. Netland) at D-MTEC, ETH Zurich, in cooperation with the Institute of Technology Management Division Production Management (ITEM) (Prof. Friedli) at the University of St. Gallen (HSG), is looking for up to 2 new doctoral students to be hired by ETH Zurich or HSG to join the newly established ETH-HSG Manufacturing Alliance. The alliance currently has 14 industrial partners: Roche, Roche Diagnostics, Novartis, Johnson & Johnson Innovative Medicine, Takeda, SHL Medical, Nestlé, Lindt & Sprüngli, Givaudan, Schneider Electric, Schindler, Endress+Hauser Flowtec, VAT Group, and SFS Group.
This is a unique opportunity for top talent who are passionate about next-generation production management.
Apply to two top institutions with one application! The Chair of POM at ETH Zurich and ITEM at HSG both conduct empirical and innovative production management research with high relevance and impact. For these positions, we are looking for candidates interested in completing a doctorate at the intersection of industry and academia. Candidates can expect close cooperation with industry partners and cross-institutional exchange and cooperation.
We are looking for candidates interested in one or several of the following topics:
* Global Operations: Configuration, coordination, and improvement of global production networks, including geopolitical issues and supply resilience.
* Operational Excellence: Lean, quality management, sustainability, and change management from the shopfloor to strategic initiatives.
* Behavioral Operations: The role of humans in human-technology cooperation, knowledge management, and the operator of the future.
* Smart Manufacturing: Application of digitalization, machine learning, analytics, and other Industry 4.0 technologies in manufacturing.
Project Background
The positions are part of a new and ambitious cross-institutional project with multinational industry partners that started in 2025.
We offer regular research associate positions with a competitive salary in accordance with ETH standards at ETH Zurich and HSG standards at HSG. The candidates will be involved in teaching and supervision activities at their respective home institutions. Candidates should indicate their preference for the home institution.
There is flexibility concerning the starting date to accommodate the selected candidate’s availability. The average duration for a doctoral student at ITEM and POM is four years. The contract is limited.
Profile
* Near completion of or holding a Master’s degree from a recognized university
* Background in operations or supply chain management, production engineering, industrial engineering, mechanical engineering, applied analytics, economics, business administration, or related fields
* Familiarity with production and operations management and a passion for manufacturing
* Motivated by the opportunity to collaborate with industrial partners
* Highly motivated, self-driven, with a record of excellent performance
* Some background in statistics and data analysis or aptitude in qualitative research methods
* Excellent oral and written English skills; interest in writing. Proficiency in German is a plus but not required.
* Experience in industry through consulting or internships is desirable.
Workplace
We Offer
Doctoral students will be part of one of two ambitious research teams, offering outstanding research environments and team spirit. Candidates at both institutions will contribute to the cross-institutional cooperation project.
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 where the rights and dignity of all staff and students are respected. Visit our Equal Opportunities and Diversity website to learn more about our efforts to ensure a fair and open environment.
Application Process
Applications must be submitted through ETH’s online portal. Please submit a single application addressed to both institutions, including:
* A statement of motivation and research interests (1-2 pages)
* A CV
* Transcripts of all degrees (English or German)
* Grade transcripts of to-be-completed degrees, if applicable
* A writing sample (e.g., an extract from the Master’s thesis or an article)
* Reference letters or contact details of referees
Early applications are encouraged as positions may be filled early. The deadline is August 31, 2025, but applications are evaluated on a rolling basis.
Questions can be directed via email to Dr. Oliver von Dzengelevski (ETH Zurich) and Dr. Mark Grothkopp (HSG). Please do not send applications to these addresses.
ETH Zurich is renowned for science and technology, fostering independent thinking and excellence. Located in Europe’s heart, ETH connects globally to develop solutions for today’s and tomorrow’s global challenges.
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