Student Assistance on Natural Hazard Management in Refugee Camps

20%-30%, Zurich, fixed-term

The research group Spatial Development and Urban Policy (SPUR), Prof. Dr David Kaufmann, and its Humanitarian Planning Hub invite students to apply for project assistance on natural hazard management in UNHCR refugee camps, starting in February one day per week until 31.12.2023 (with the possibility of extension).

Project background

In the face of climate change, the risk from natural hazards increases. Refugee camps are especially vulnerable to hazardous events such as flooding or heat waves, stressing the significance of risk maps and analyses. The project Risk Mitigation Strategy thus aims at supporting the UNHCR field staff in identifying and mapping flood risks in refugee camps based on a GIS tool and a catalog of risk mitigation measures. The project is part of a collaboration between UNHCR, the Swiss Development Cooperation (SDC), and ETH Zurich through the Geneva Technical Hub.

Job description

• Project assistance on natural hazard management in UNHCR refugee camps
• Continuous development and advancement of the GIS Tool, Bug Fixing
• Literature search and compilation of information
• Assistance in report writing possible
• Administrative tasks

Your profile

• Immatriculated student at ETH Zurich or the University of Zurich (End of BSc/Beginning of MSc)
• Interest in spatial, social, and environmental issues
• Good command and understanding of geoinformation systems (ArcGIS and QGIS)
• Basic knowledge of the programming language Python (and C#)
• Interest in data editing, bug fixing, and the further development of the GIS Tool
• Computer literacy (layout, graphics, video, CMS, social media) is a plus
• Good command of written and spoken English is a plus

We offer

ETH Zurich is a family-friendly employer with excellent working conditions. You can look forward to an exciting working environment, cultural diversity and attractive offers and benefits.

Working, teaching and research at ETH Zurich

We value diversity

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.

Curious? So are we.

We look forward to receiving your online application by 13.02.2023, including:

• a short cover letter
• your CV, transcript of records
• a copy of the confirmation of enrolment.

Please note that we exclusively accept applications submitted through our online application portal. Applications via email or postal services will not be considered. Questions regarding the position should be directed to Bruna Rohling, brohlingethz.ch (no applications).

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.