PhD on value chains for pulses in Switzerland

Nyon | 100-100%

Your contribution

• Conduct literature analysis and gradually develop the research question and the scientific approach of the project
• Map value chains for pulses in Switzerland and analyze the roles and interactions between the various actors
• Design, conduct, and evaluate surveys among the actors in the value chain
• Conduct and evaluate field trials to assess varieties as well as analyze consumer preferences
• Design and conduct workshops and multi-actor initiatives to promote innovation and the joint development of scenarios for the further development of the value chains
• Publish results in scientific publications and give presentations, contribute to knowledge transfer, and network with the scientific community

What makes you unique

• Completed engineering degree or Master in agricultural sciences, preferably with experience in research or in the field of participatory approaches with multiple actors
• Interest in fieldwork and applied research as well as the ability for interdisciplinary collaboration
• Scientific curiosity, initiative, and interest in learning new methods, accuracy, and organizational skills
• Good knowledge of the software R
• Driver's license
• Knowledge of two official languages and English

In a nutshell

Pulses have great potential to diversify cropping systems, reduce the use of nitrogen fertilizers, and promote a more sustainable diet. Despite growing interest, cultivation in Switzerland is still limited. The majority of pulses consumed are imported. The establishment of local value chains faces numerous challenges, from production and processing to marketing.
Against this background, the federally supported project <<Filigrane>> aims to promote the development of Swiss value chains for pulses. It combines the assessment of varieties adapted to Swiss conditions with the optimization of cultivation methods, the design of scenarios for the organization of the value chains, and the investigation of processing and the influencing factors of consumption.
The dissertation is part of this project and is jointly supervised by Agroscope and INRAE (UMR Agronomie) under the leadership of Marie-Hélène Jeuffroy.

What we offer

• Working for Switzerland We are committed to the Swiss success model and work for the well-being of the population.
• Lived diversity Thanks to equal opportunities, we develop our competencies and bring in different perspectives.
• Healthy workplace We support and advise our employees in the area of physical and mental health.

All benefits (https://www.stelle.admin.ch/stelle/de/home/bundesverwaltung/ihre-vorteile-auf-einen-blick.html)

Good food, healthy environment

Agroscope is the federal competence center for research in agriculture and food economics. Researchers carry out their activities at various locations in Switzerland. The headquarters is in Bern-Liebefeld (from 2026: Posieux FR). Agroscope is located within the Federal Department of Economic Affairs, Education and Research WBF.

Additional information

The Crop Technology and Varieties Field Crops research group develops sustainable production techniques as well as new varieties adapted to climate change for the most important field crops, which are grown according to various production methods (integrated production, labels or organic farming). To fulfill this mandate, the group conducts trials, mainly in open fields, from Lake Geneva to eastern Switzerland.

Questions about the position

Alice Baux
Team Leader
+41 58 46 04722