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)? If you think strategically, possess technical expertise, and can navigate confidently between research, IT, and governance, then consider joining us as the Head of the Research Data Management unit. Help us build a forward-looking infrastructure that supports excellent research.

The Department of Biosystems Science and Engineering (D-BSSE) at ETH Zurich in Basel is seeking a leader for the new departmental Research Data Management Facility to start as soon as possible or by mutual agreement.

Job Description

In this role, you will take on responsibilities that are strategic, technical, and organizational:

• You will establish and strategically develop the RDM unit.
• Define and prioritize the departmental RDM strategy in alignment with ETH-wide, national, and international developments.
• Collaborate with research groups to identify specific needs and translate them into viable, sustainable system solutions.
• Design, plan, and manage software projects, encompassing requirements engineering, stakeholder management, and budget responsibility.
• Ensure that the RDM systems utilized are FAIR-compliant, secure, efficient, and sustainably operated in the long term.
• Actively participate in designing, prototyping, and further developing RDM infrastructures, preferably using open source technologies.
• Work closely with the departmental IT Facility to ensure the rollout and reliable operation of these 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 ETH and in national and international RDM networks.

Profile

• PhD in natural sciences, engineering, computer science, or related 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 thinker with the ability to translate visions into concrete projects.
• Management experience or strong leadership potential.
• Excellent communication skills and a passion for interdisciplinary collaboration.
• High degree of independence, decisiveness, and sense of responsibility.
• Proficient in English; German language skills are a plus.

Workplace

Your workplace will be within the dynamic and innovative environment of ETH Zurich, which is committed to fostering professional development and contributing positively to society.

We Offer

Your job with impact: Join ETH Zurich, an institution that not only supports your professional development but also plays an active role in driving societal change.

Creative freedom: You will assume a visible position that entails significant personal responsibility and lasting impact.

Interdisciplinary environment: Collaborate closely with leading research groups and both internal and external partners, actively contributing to the creation of modern open science infrastructures.

Attractive employment conditions:

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

We Value Diversity and Sustainability

ETH Zurich promotes an inclusive culture that upholds equality of opportunity, values diversity, and nurtures a working and learning environment that respects the rights and dignity of all staff and students. Visit our Equal Opportunities and Diversity website to learn how we maintain a fair and open environment that allows everyone to grow and thrive. Sustainability is a core principle for us—we are continuously working towards a climate-neutral future.

Curious? So Are We.

If you are eager to take responsibility, shape structures, and make research data future-proof, we invite you to apply online using the form below. Only applications matching the job profile will be considered.

For further details about the position, please contact Prof. Dr. Jörg Stelling at joerg.stelling@bsse.ethz.ch (no application documents).

About ETH Zurich

ETH Zurich is one of the world's leading universities specializing in science and technology. Renowned for its outstanding education, cutting-edge fundamental research, and the effective transfer of new knowledge into society, ETH Zurich is home to over 30,000 individuals from more than 120 countries. Our university fosters independent thinking and an inspiring environment that promotes excellence, while located in the heart of Europe and establishing connections globally to develop solutions for the challenges of today and tomorrow.