Übersicht 

Project Manager for Institutional and Research Projects

40%-80%, Zurich, fixed-term

Drucken 

The Forest Resources Management Group (FORM) at ETH Zurich aims to maximize forest utilities for humans today and in the future. With this vision in mind, our work spans applied research, institutional collaborations, and capacity-building initiatives. We are seeking a highly organized, proactive, and collaborative Project Manager to coordinate a set of ambitious research and outreach projects situated at the interface of academia, civil society, and policy.

Project background

Our group leads a variety of strategic and cross-cutting projects focused on sustainable land use, ecological transitions, and nature-based solutions. Two flagship projects include the "Combustion Free Valley" initiative—with its flagship event Bike to La Punt - and the ETH Heilbronn Summer School on "Managing Terrestrial Resources using Earth Observation and AI". These projects require dedicated oversight to ensure planning, execution, and communication run smoothly, and that academic, technical, and policy partners remain well integrated.

The successful candidate will work closely with the group leader, administrative offices, researchers, and external stakeholders to deliver these projects within time and budget constraints. While the role is not scientific in nature, it is central to the success of our outreach, educational, and strategic activities.

Job description

  • Plan and initiate projects, define goals and timelines, prepare charters, and align with internal and external partners
  • Manage project execution from team coordination and resource allocation to milestone tracking and delivery
  • Lead stakeholder engagement across ETH units, academic institutions, and external partners; ensure buy-in and resolve friction
  • Secure co-financing and draft compelling proposals for internal and external sponsors
  • Oversee budgets and contracts; ensure financial and legal compliance in coordination with ETH services
  • Coordinate communication and outreach, including website updates, correspondence, and event material
  • Organize internal and external events such as workshops, summer schools, and public-facing initiatives

Profile

  • Master's degree in natural sciences, engineering, informatics, or business administration; a PhD is an asset for research-heavy projects
  • 5–8 years of experience managing complex, multi-stakeholder projects in academia, research, or public institutions
  • Proven ability to translate research goals into structured project plans and engaging formats
  • Excellent organizational, budgeting, and time-management skills
  • Professional fluency in English and German, a second Swiss national language is an asset
  • Familiarity with project management tools and communication 
  • Strong writing skills and ability to prepare reports, funding proposals, and public-facing materials
  • Committed to sustainability, equity, and interdisciplinary collaboration

Workplace

Workplace

We offer

  • A high-impact role embedded in a leading European research institution
  • Responsibility and autonomy in shaping meaningful and public-facing projects
  • Collaboration with a diverse and engaged team
  • A vibrant research environment in the heart of Zurich
  • A negotiable workload of 40-80%
  • A one year contract with possibility for extension based on performance
Working, teaching and research at ETH Zurich

We value diversity

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.

Curious? So are we.

We look forward to receiving your online application with the following documents:

  • Curriculum vitae
  • A letter (1-2 pages) explaining your interests and motivation to apply for this position, as well as how your experience is a fit for what were looking for
  • Transcrip of records from your MSc/ PhD with complete course grades
  • Names and contact details of three reference persons

Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until 12 August 2025. Please submit your documents in PDF format via the ETH online portal. Applications by email will not be considered.

For more information about our research group, visit www.form.ethz.ch
For questions regarding the position, contact Ariane Hangartner (ariane.hangartner@usys.ethz.ch)

About ETH Zürich

ETH Zurich is one of the world’s leading universities specialising in science and technology. We are renowned for our excellent education, cutting-edge fundamental research and direct transfer of new knowledge into society. Over 30,000 people from more than 120 countries find our university to be a place that promotes independent thinking and an environment that inspires excellence. Located in the heart of Europe, yet forging connections all over the world, we work together to develop solutions for the global challenges of today and tomorrow.