Head of Research Data Management Facility / Head of Research Data Management Facility

Head of Research Data Management Facility

100%, Basel, permanent

Would you like to not only manage research data but also actively shape the future of research data management (RDM)? Do you think strategically, act with technical expertise, and move confidently between research, IT, and governance? Then join us as the head of the Research Data Management unit and build a forward-looking infrastructure for excellent research.

The Department of Biosystems Science and Engineering (D-BSSE) at ETH Zurich in Basel is looking for a head for the new departmental Research Data Management Facility to start immediately or by agreement.

Job Description

You will take on responsibility—strategically, technically, and organizationally:

• Establish the RDM unit and develop it strategically.
• Define and prioritize the departmental RDM strategy in line with ETH-wide, national, and international developments.
• Identify specific needs in collaboration with research groups and translate them into viable, sustainable system solutions.
• Design, plan, and manage software projects, covering requirements engineering, stakeholder management, and budget responsibility.
• Ensure that the RDM systems used are FAIR-compliant, secure, efficient, and operated sustainably in the long term.
• Actively participate in designing, prototyping, and further developing RDM infrastructures, preferably based on open-source technologies.
• Collaborate with the departmental IT Facility to ensure the rollout and reliable operation of the systems.
• Build and manage a small, specialized team, fostering the targeted development of the team's internal competencies.
• Represent and position the unit prominently within the ETH environment and in national and international RDM networks.

Profile

• PhD in natural sciences, engineering, computer science, or comparable fields.
• Several years of experience in research data management.
• In-depth knowledge of FAIR principles, open science standards, and regulatory requirements (e.g., data security).
• Experience in designing and managing complex software projects.
• Strategic thinking and ability to translate visions into concrete projects.
• Management experience or strong leadership potential.
• Excellent communication skills and enjoyment of interdisciplinary collaboration.
• High degree of independence, decisiveness, and sense of responsibility.
• Very good English skills; German skills are an advantage.

Workplace

Join an inspiring environment that promotes innovation and collaboration.

We Offer

Your job with impact: Become part of ETH Zurich, which supports your professional development while actively contributing to positive change in society.

Creative freedom: Take on a prominent position with a high degree of personal responsibility and lasting impact.

Interdisciplinary environment: Work closely with leading research groups and both internal and external partners to actively shape modern open science infrastructures.

Attractive employment conditions:

• Numerous benefits, including public transport subscriptions and car sharing.
• Childcare options.
• Attractive pension benefits.

We Value Diversity and Sustainability

ETH Zurich encourages 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. Visit our Equal Opportunities and Diversity website to see 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.

If you would like to take on responsibility, shape structures, and make research data future-proof, we look forward to receiving your online application using the form below. Only applications matching the job profile will be considered.

About ETH Zurich

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 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 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.