From 4 to 18 November 2025, a three-part public lecture series explores agroecology as a pathway to sustainable food systems. Each Tuesday (16:15–17:15 CET, via Zoom), experts from science, policy, and practice will discuss agroecological transformation and its role in addressing global food and environmental challenges. Speakers include Lutz Merbold (Agroscope), Johanna Jacobi (ETH Zurich), Daniel Seifert (Biovision), and Ruben Baert (agroecology.science).

The UN-ETH Forum 2025 brings together international experts, policymakers, and academics to address global challenges in peace, security, and sustainability. A highlight for professionals in International Agriculture is the panel “Who Gets To Eat? Navigating Trade-offs in Sustainable Food Systems”, which explores how to reconcile Zero Hunger (SDG 2) and Good Health and Well-being (SDG 3) with the broader Agenda 2030. Discussions cover water use, food processing, the Planetary Health Diet, Switzerland’s global role, and the voice of youth in reshaping agriculture and food systems. Chaired by Prof. Dr. Robert Finger (ETH Zurich) with contributions from Ambassador Krisztina Bende, Prof. Dr. Alexander Mathys, Dr. Marc Müller, and Dr. Sabine Mukerji.

ETH Zürich

Qualifications: Excellent Master’s degree in Political Science, Economics, Behavioral Science, Public Policy, or Environmental/Food and Agricultural Economics; strong analytical skills and proficiency in R or Python; experience in survey or experimental design is an advantage; motivation to work in an inter- and transdisciplinary environment; fluent in German and English; strong interpersonal and collaboration skills. Positions are part of the Plant4Value project led by Dr. Daniela Hoffmann and Dr. Lukas Fesenfeld at ETH Zurich’s forthcoming School of Public Policy.

The event is part of the Dispute series and is jointly organized by the Permanent Mission of Switzerland to the UN in Rome and the ETH Zurich World Food System Center. It explores how food choices intersect with politics, culture, technology, and inequality, focusing on ultra-processed foods, food justice, and the true cost of nutrition. 

This course enhances participants’ understanding of the challenges low- and middle-income countries face in achieving food security. It focuses on measurement tools and intervention design in different contexts.