(Senior) Catastrophe Researcher 80%-100%

Zurich’s Group Accumulation Management function delivers thought leadership and actionable insights to the business regarding natural and man-made catastrophes. Using both internal and externally sourced Cat Modeling capabilities, we assess accumulation risk globally. Our comprehensive approach to accumulation risk is an essential component of Zurich’s Risk Management and Underwriting function that supports the optimization of our portfolios, delivers sustainable and profitable growth and is striving to understand current and emerging risks including cyber, casualty cat and climate change. The Cat Research & Development team plays a key role on our transformation journey embracing science and technology.

We are looking for an enthusiastic cat researcher with a deep knowledge of at least one natural or man-made catastrophe field and/or who has a strong background in statistics, risk assessment, computer science, machine learning and and/or climate change research. The optimal candidate is eager to extend his/her work to different cat topics and is keen to make a positive impact on the overall business.

What you will do

• Conduct natural and man-made catastrophe risk related research and development projects for the Group Accumulation Management function and translate the research insights into positive impacts for the business. 

• Working to develop our Zurich View of risk for currently modelled and non-modelled perils and lines of business. This includes validation and calibration of existing models, building new models, adapting existing models to reflect risk changes and leveraging model insights to generate business opportunities.

• Leveraging data science , artificial intelligence and machine learning techniques to enhance the Zurich’s own View of risk, data quality assessment and/or augmentation and to transfer insights to non-modelled regions, etc.

• Supporting the deployment of Research & Development pilot projects into the production environment.

• Maintaining up to date knowledge of Cat related research and ensuring reporting on relevant emerging information to the Cat management community and other stakeholders.

• Developing and maintaining a large network of contacts within the academic, reinsurance, model vendor and broker communities and ensure findings are translated into business insight for Zurich.

What you bring

An optimal candidate covers several of the following points:

• Advanced university degree (Master's or PhD) in a quantitative subject, natural science, engineering, computer science, machine learning or an actuarial qualification.

• Ideally, one or more years of related industry or academic experience.

• Knowledge in catastrophe modelling, including calibrating, validating and making practical use of models.

• Strong statistical and analytical skills.

• Expert ability to translate academic research into applicable information leading to improved Cat risk assessment and management.

• Working experience in programming a high-level language like Python, R or  Matlab. 

• Experience in applying statistical analysis, machine learning, artificial intelligence and modelling of large data sets is desirable. 

• Database skills (SQL, Parquet) are desirable and technical skills in a programming language like C, C++, C#, .Net, Java, etc. are a plus.

• Experience in analysing and processing geospatial data are desirable.

• Expert ability to communicate complex results in a clear way to non-practitioners.

• Ability to work within a team physically located in different geographies.

• Highly self-reliant and committed personality with strong interpersonal, communication and networking skills.

Additional Information

We look forward to receiving your online application. 

At our Quai Zurich Campus, our culture and our people are what set us apart. We thrive on face-to-face interactions that drive collaboration, nurture our unique culture, and amplify our success. Enjoy the best of both worlds with the flexibility to work up to two days remotely per week within Switzerland, allowing you to balance personal commitments while excelling in your career. Please discuss your flexibility needs with us during your interview.

Information for recruitment agencies

Zurich does not accept any applications from recruitment agencies for this position. We refuse any responsibility for unsolicited applications as well as any associated fees. 

Why Zurich

At Zurich, we like to think outside the box and challenge the status quo. We take an optimistic approach by focusing on the positives and constantly asking What can go right? 

We are an equal opportunity employer who knows that each employee is unique - that’s what makes our team so great! 
Join us as we constantly explore new ways to protect our customers and the planet.
 

• Location(s):  CH - Zürich 
• Remote working: Hybrid
• Schedule: Full Time
• Recruiter name: Grace Cunningham