Programme Manager
Immigration Policy Lab
Zurich, Switzerland
Programme Manager
60%-80%, Zurich, fixed-term
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
Must-have qualifications:
- 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
Nice-to-have:
- Experience with ETH Zurich or similar academic environments
- German language skills
- Experience in managing research programmes
- Experience working with international actors
- Experience in communication
Workplace
Workplace
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
We value diversity and sustainability
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.