Fixed-term contracts

As a basic principle, the legal provisions that apply up until the end of a fixed-term contract are the same as those for permanent contracts. If your contract end date falls during pregnancy or maternity leave, it is advisable to arrange a meeting with your supervisor and your HR Partner to discuss this.

Supervisors are encouraged to support employees with fixed-term contracts in balancing their work and family lives, taking into account the situation at work.

ETH Zurich promotes the ability of parents with a scientific function and a fixed-term contract of employment to be able to continue their career path after maternity or paternity leave. Upon return from maternity or paternity leave, the existing fixed-term contract should continue for at least as long as the period of leave, or be extended as needed by the same number of months/weeks, unless a contract with a longer term is being issued anyway. Employees are urged to discuss this topic early and proactively with their supervisor. Supervisors are urged to discuss the employee¡¯s return and the duration of the employment contract with the employee before maternity or paternity leave begins. A guidance sheet is available to assist you.

Your HR Partner is also available for consultation as needed.