Communication & Media Officer / Communication & Media Officeress

Job Opportunity: Communication Specialist at NCCR "Genesis"

The Swiss federal government has approved six new National Centres of Competence in Research (NCCRs), providing long-term support to key strategic research areas in Switzerland. ETH Zurich is leading three of these NCCRs, including the NCCR “Genesis,” presenting a significant opportunity for education, top-level research, and knowledge transfer to industry and society.

About NCCR "Genesis"

NCCR "Genesis" explores the origin of life as a gradual transition from inanimate matter to living organisms. The centre collaborates closely with the University of Lausanne (UNIL), uniting over 100 scientists from across the country. This multidisciplinary initiative bridges biology, chemistry, astrophysics, and Earth and planetary sciences, understanding the origin of life not as a sudden event, but as a continuous process.

Researchers are investigating how specific planetary conditions allow functional biological systems to form from inanimate components, ultimately leading to the emergence of living organisms.

Your Role

In this versatile position, you will be responsible for the strategic planning and operational implementation of all communication activities for the centre. Your role will involve creating connections between complex research and the public, working closely with the project management team, and coordinating outreach activities between ETH Zurich and the University of Lausanne.

Key Responsibilities

• Strategy & Visibility: Identify opportunities for outreach, visibility, and knowledge transfer while developing and implementing the NCCR communication strategy.
• Content Creation: Promote scientific highlights, create innovative formats (movies, exhibits, etc.), and translate complex research findings into audience-appropriate content for stakeholders, funders, and the general public.
• Media Relations: Serve as the primary contact for institutional communications departments and national/international media, preparing and coordinating press releases and media briefings with partner institutions.
• Digital Management: Maintain and update the NCCR website, manage social media channels, ensuring consistent visual identity and engaging storytelling.
• Interface Function: Act as a central interface between scientific leadership, the Communication & Outreach platform, and participating universities.

Qualifications

• Several years of experience in science communication, journalism, or public relations, preferably within the Swiss higher education sector.
• A solid understanding of the Swiss research system (SNSF/NFS) with the ability to present complex technical or scientific topics engagingly to diverse audiences.
• Excellent skills in English and German, along with very good French skills, given the interface between German-speaking Switzerland (ETH) and Romandie (UNIL).
• Proficient in handling CMS systems, graphic tools, and professional social media management.
• Experience with visual tools, video, and film production is considered a strong plus.

What We Offer

Join ETH Zurich to not only advance your professional development but also contribute to positive change in society. We provide numerous benefits, including public transport season tickets, car sharing, a wide array of sports offered by the ASVZ, childcare, and attractive pension benefits.

Enjoy flexible working conditions in an inspiring, international research environment as part of a collaborative initiative between two of Switzerland's most prestigious universities. This position is initially limited to four years during phase 1 of "Genesis."

Application Process

Apply online using the form below. Only applications matching the job profile will be considered. We look forward to receiving your applications, including a motivation letter, CV, and work testimonials.

For further information about ETH Zurich, please visit our website. For inquiries regarding the position, please contact Dr. Florian Lienhard at lflorian@ethz.ch (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.

Pre-selection is conducted by our responsible recruiters, not by artificial intelligence. For recruitment services, the GTC of ETH Zurich apply.