Junior Researcher in Agroeconomy – European DairyPathS Project | Eurac Research, Italy Eurac Research, a leading European research institute, is inviting applications for a Junior Researcher in the field of Agroeconomy to be based in Bozen/Bolzano, Italy. This full-time, one-year fixed-term position offers an exciting opportunity for early-career researchers to contribute to cutting-edge, interdisciplinary research supporting sustainable and resilient dairy farming systems across Europe. The successful candidate will join the Institute for Regional Development, working within an experienced, multidisciplinary team engaged in the European DairyPathS project. DairyPathS is an ambitious EU-funded initiative focused on advancing sustainable, diversified, and climate-resilient dairy farming through participatory research, Living Labs, stakeholder engagement, and advanced sustainability assessment tools. About the DairyPathS Project The DairyPathS project aims to support the transition of dairy systems toward agroecological and sustainable models that balance environmental integrity, economic viability, and social well-being. Central to the project is the use of Living Labs, where farmers, advisors, policymakers, and researchers collaboratively co-design and assess agroecological scenarios. By integrating real-world stakeholder perspectives with advanced modelling and sustainability assessment frameworks, DairyPathS generates practical, evidence-based solutions that can be scaled across diverse European dairy contexts. Role Overview As a Junior Researcher, you will actively contribute to applied, transdisciplinary research addressing the complex challenges facing dairy farming systems. The role combines data-driven analysis, stakeholder engagement, and participatory research, offering hands-on experience at the intersection of science, policy, and practice. You will support the design and evaluation of agroecological scenarios, assess sustainability trade-offs, and help translate research findings into outputs that inform farmers, policymakers, and the wider scientific community. Key Responsibilities The Junior Researcher will be responsible for a wide range of research and coordination activities, including: Participating in the preparation and execution of co-design processes with Living Lab stakeholders such as farmers, advisors, policymakers, and researchers. Collecting, managing, and analysing environmental, economic, and social data related to dairy farming systems. Contributing to the development and application of multicriteria sustainability assessment tools, including frameworks such as DEXI-Dairy. Supporting modelling activities at farm, landscape, and agent-based levels to evaluate the impacts of agroecological practices on biodiversity, ecosystem services, and climate change adaptation. Assisting with the organisation and facilitation of workshops, stakeholder meetings, and participatory research activities within the DairyPathS Living Lab. Preparing research reports, scientific publications, and dissemination materials tailored to academic, policy, and practitioner audiences. Collaborating with an international and interdisciplinary consortium, and participating in project meetings, training sessions, and knowledge-exchange events. Candidate Profile This position is ideal for early-career researchers with a strong academic foundation and a keen interest in sustainable agriculture and agroecology. Applicants should hold a Master’s degree (or equivalent) in agronomy, agricultural economics, agricultural geography, agroecology, animal science, environmental science, bio and resource management, or a closely related discipline. Essential qualifications include: High proficiency in English, Italian, and German Strong interest in agroecology, sustainable agriculture, and smallholder dairy farming Experience with quantitative and/or qualitative research methods, such as data analysis, modelling, stakeholder interviews, or multivariate statistics Excellent communication and teamwork skills, with the ability to work effectively in multicultural and interdisciplinary environments Willingness to travel for fieldwork, meetings, and training across partner regions Additional assets include familiarity with sustainability assessment frameworks, Life Cycle Assessment (LCA), multicriteria decision analysis, participatory research approaches, Living Lab methodologies, and knowledge of dairy production systems, agroforestry, or landscape ecology. Competence in data management and statistical software such as R, Python, SPSS, NVivo, or MAXQDA is highly valued. What Eurac Research Offers Eurac Research provides a dynamic and collaborative research environment, bringing together experts from diverse disciplines to address pressing regional and global challenges. The selected candidate will benefit from hands-on involvement in an influential European research project, exposure to international research networks, and opportunities for professional growth and publication. The position offers a full-time, one-year fixed-term contract, with the possibility to deepen expertise in sustainability science, participatory research, and applied agroeconomic analysis. How to Apply Interested candidates should submit their CV, cover letter, and any additional relevant documents by 30 January 2026. Organisation: Eurac ResearchLocation: Bozen/Bolzano, ItalyContact Person: Anna Silbernagl Phone: +39 0471 055 419 Email: anna.silbernagl@eurac.edu This role is an excellent opportunity for aspiring researchers eager to contribute to sustainable food systems, climate resilience, and participatory agricultural innovation within a leading European research institution. APPLY NOW For more opportunities such as these please follow us on Facebook, Instagram , WhatsApp, Twitter, LinkedIn and Telegram Disclaimer: Global South Opportunities (GSO) is not the fellowship organization. For any inquiries, please contact the responsible organization directly. Please do not send your applications to GSO, as we are unable to process them. Due to the high volume of emails we receive daily, we may not be able to respond to all inquiries. Thank you for your understanding.