Associate to the Directors / Associate to the Directors

Associate to the Directors at ETH AI Center

80%-100%, Zurich, fixed-term

The ETH AI Center is one of the largest AI centers in Europe, encompassing over 120 professors from all 16 departments of ETH Zurich and more than 1500 PhD students and post-docs. Our mission is to foster interdisciplinary AI research and bridge the gap from science to society.

If you are a highly motivated individual with a passion for AI and a desire to make a significant impact in a rapidly evolving field, we invite you to join our team at the ETH AI Center. Be part of a collaborative and innovative environment dedicated to advancing AI research and technology.

Project Background

The Associate to the Directors will work directly with the Executive Director and Co-Director of the ETH AI Center, supporting strategic, operational, and scientific initiatives across the Center. This dynamic, proactive role offers unparalleled access to the inner workings of one of Europe’s leading AI research hubs.

This position serves as a launchpad for exceptional individuals typically in a 1-2 year capacity, offering extensive exposure to the AI research landscape, innovation ecosystems, academic-industry collaboration, and science policy. Associates gain hands-on experience in science strategy, research management, and institutional leadership—ideal preparation for future roles in academia, industry, or entrepreneurship.

Your exceptional ability to simplify complex concepts, follow through, and get things done will be essential to driving projects and initiatives forward to achieve their goals.

Job Description

• Assist in setting up new initiatives and projects from ideation to funding, actively following up on project milestones, reporting, finances, and deliverables.
• Create compelling presentations, collaboration agreements, and other relevant documentation to support project initiatives.
• Independently moderate and drive smaller projects, proactively following through on tasks, deadlines, and stakeholder engagement.
• Collaborate with teams to introduce and enhance processes, such as OKR (Objectives and Key Results) reviews, to optimize efficiency and performance.
• Work directly with the Directors and ETH AI Center management on key strategic initiatives, providing valuable insights and support.
• Oversee administrative processes, including scheduling, documentation, contract management, invoicing, and internal coordination, to ensure efficient operations and compliance with ETH policies.

Profile

Qualifications

• Strong interpersonal and communication skills—able to build trust, collaborate across disciplines, and steer teams towards common objectives.
• Skilled at capturing and structuring discussions and decisions through clear meeting minutes and follow-up actions.
• Proactive, detail-oriented, and solution-driven mindset.
• Excellent organizational skills with a proven ability to manage multiple priorities and meet deadlines.
• Entrepreneurial mindset with a strong curiosity and hunger for learning, constantly seeking out new ideas and opportunities in the field of artificial intelligence and related disciplines.

Requirements

• A bachelor's or master's degree in a relevant field.
• Prior experience in a similar role in project management, consulting, academia, or a tech/startup environment is a strong plus.
• A demonstrated passion for artificial intelligence research and a strong interest in driving innovation in the field.
• Proven ability to work independently, take initiative, and manage multiple tasks simultaneously.
• Strong analytical skills and attention to detail, with the ability to think critically and strategically.

Workplace

Welcome to a vibrant work environment that fosters growth and innovation.

We Offer

• Your career with impact: Become part of ETH Zurich, which not only supports your professional development but also actively contributes to positive change in society.
• We are committed to a sustainable and climate-neutral university.
• Expect numerous benefits, including public transport season tickets, car sharing, a wide range of sports offered by ASVZ, childcare, and attractive pension benefits.

We Value Diversity

In alignment with our values, ETH Zurich fosters an inclusive culture. We promote equality of opportunity, value diversity, and nurture a working and learning environment where the rights and dignity of all staff and students are respected.

Curious? So Are We.

We look forward to receiving your online application using the form below. Only applications matching the job profile will be considered.

Further information about us can be found on our website. Questions regarding the position should be directed to Natalia Marciniak at natalia.marciniak@ai.ethz.ch (no applications).

About ETH Zürich

ETH Zurich is one of the world’s leading universities specializing in science and technology. We are renowned for our excellent education, cutting-edge fundamental research, and directly translating new knowledge into society. Over 30,000 individuals from more than 120 countries find our university a place that promotes independent thinking and inspires excellence. Located in the heart of Europe, we build connections worldwide to develop solutions for today’s and tomorrow's global challenges.