Programme Manager 60%-80%

ETH Zürich • Teilzeit • Zürich • vor 1Tg

About ETH4D

ETH for Development (ETH4D) is an ETH-wide initiative which develops innovations that address global challenges and educates future leaders in sustainable development.

ETH4D is offering a Programme Manager position to set up and run a new research programme. The programme aims to advance research-based innovations for global urban development and sustainable infrastructure systems by fostering collaboration between researchers from all fields of the ETH domain and international partners from policy, practice, and industry.

This is an ideal position for recent PhD graduates interested in transitioning into research management.

Job description

As Programme Manager, starting from 1 July or 1 August 2026 you will play a key role in setting up and managing the research programme. You will coordinate the launch, facilitate collaborations, and manage the call for proposal and selection process.

Key responsibilities include:

Setting up the programme's application and selection process
Developing and implementing the communication and outreach strategy
Preparing communication materials
Organizing events
Managing the call for proposals
Communication with various stakeholders (research, practice, industry, policy)
Supporting matchmaking and the collaboration building between researchers and practice partners
Managing the review and selection process
Donor reporting and finances
Coordination with other research and teaching programmes/staff of ETH4D

The position is limited to a duration of 1 year.

Profile

Ph.D in engineering, natural sciences or social sciences
Excellent command of English (in writing and speaking)
Strong organisational and project management skills
Ability to coordinate multiple stakeholders across academia and practice
Demonstrated interest or experience in transdisciplinary research collaborations
Experience with ETH Zurich or similar academic environments
German language skills is a plus
Experience in managing research programmes is a plus
Experience working with international actors is a plus
Experience in communication is a plus

We offer

A unique opportunity to gain hands-on experience in research programme management
Close collaboration with researchers across ETH and international practice partners
Insight into impactful research and real-world sustainability initiatives

> Working, teaching and research at ETH Zurich

We value diversity and sustainability
In line with our values, ETH Zurich encourages an inclusive culture. We promote equality of opportunity, value diversity and nurture a working and learning environment in which the rights and dignity of all our staff and students are respected. Visit our Equal Opportunities and Diversity website to find out how we ensure a fair and open environment that allows everyone to grow and flourish. Sustainability is a core value for us - we are consistently working towards a climate-neutral future.

Curious? So are we.

We look forward to receiving your online application with the following documents in one PDF file by 5 June 2026.

CV (max. 2 pages)
A short video (max. 3 minutes) of yourself telling us: (1) what motivates you to apply, and (2) why you think you're a great fit for this role. We do not expect a professionally produced video. A recording with your smartphone is perfectly sufficient. Please upload the video to a platform of your choice (Dropbox, YouTube, Vimeo, Google Drive, etc.) and include the corresponding URL link in your CV.
One letter of recommendation from a professional reference. The letter should speak directly to your fit for this position, no general employment reference (max. 1 page)

Further information about ETH4D can be found on our website. Questions regarding the position should be directed to Alexandra Hees (no applications).

Please note that we exclusively accept applications submitted through our online application portal. Applications via email or postal services will not be considered.

We would like to point out that the pre-selection is carried out by the responsible recruiters and not by artificial intelligence.

For recruitment services the GTC of ETH Zurich apply.