Legal Counsel / Legal Counseless

Legal Counsel / Contracts Specialist for ETH Zurich | Space

100%, Zurich, permanent

ETH Zurich is one of the leading universities worldwide in the fields of science and engineering. Through its strategic initiative, ETH Zurich - Space, the university is systematically expanding its activities in space research and technology. A unique environment for innovation is being created through the recruitment of high-caliber researchers of international standing and the expansion of collaborations with leading partners from academia, space agencies, and industry.

Within the Vice-Presidency for Knowledge Transfer and Corporate Relations, the Research Contracts Group supports researchers in building a solid legal foundation for their projects with national and international partners.

To strengthen our team, we are seeking a committed, solution-oriented, and strong negotiator to assume the role of Legal Counsel for ETH Zurich - Space, available immediately or by agreement.

Job Description

Your Role at the Interface Between Space Research and Law

In this role, you will serve as the key legal point of contact for the research activities of ETH Zurich - Space and ETH Swiss GeoLab. You will work within a strong team of around 20 legal professionals in the Research Contracts Group, benefiting from their extensive expertise and collaborative spirit. Your primary focus will be on managing the space-related portfolio independently. With a steadily increasing number of collaborations, you will facilitate and promote the conclusion of contracts between ETH researchers and space-related organizations, including industrial companies, start-ups, international space agencies, and academic institutions.

You will advise researchers and management on the drafting and negotiation of complex research contracts, ensuring that innovative projects are implemented in a legally sound and efficient manner. This encompasses both traditional space technologies (e.g., hardware) and Earth observation, as well as the processing of geo-information and the use of space data. Additionally, you will act as a liaison to Swiss stakeholders in government and the business sector.

Your support for scientists will span the entire collaboration process, from the initial idea through to the conclusion of a contract, laying the legal groundwork for world-class international research in a dynamic environment.

Your Key Responsibilities

• Independently review, draft, and negotiate complex national and international research and development contracts, including Research Collaboration Agreements, Consortium Agreements, Non-Disclosure Agreements (NDAs) and other research and cooperation agreements.
• Manage projects with international space agencies, research institutions, and industry partners, particularly in relation to the European Space Agency (ESA), NASA, the Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL), and other international entities.
• Advise researchers and project managers on legal issues associated with international research collaborations, intellectual property, liability, and other contractual risks.
• Provide support regarding export controls and dual-use goods, closely collaborating with the relevant compliance units at ETH Zurich.
• Offer proactive and solution-oriented advice throughout the entire project lifecycle, from initiation to successful completion.
• Develop contract templates, guidelines, and standard processes for efficient and legally compliant management of space and research projects.
• Collaborate closely with ETH transfer, compliance units, and other internal and external stakeholders.
• Contribute significantly to ensuring that international research collaborations are legally sound while safeguarding the research community's ability to act.

Profile

We are looking for a candidate who can quickly understand complex issues, develop pragmatic solutions, and enjoys supporting researchers in a world-class international research environment.

• Education: A university degree in law (or equivalent legal qualification) combined with a strong understanding of technical contexts.
• Experience: A minimum of 5 years of relevant professional experience in international contract law or research management, ideally gained in an international organization, a tech/space sector company, a space-related authority, or in a university. Familiarity with contracts from space agencies (e.g., ESA) or space companies is a strong advantage.
• Expertise: In-depth knowledge of Swiss and international contract law; experience in intellectual property law, technology transfer, or research law is advantageous.
• Space Law: Knowledge of international space law, regulatory issues concerning the space sector, and the science policy context of international research collaborations would be beneficial.
• Export Control & Regulation: Experience in export control law (particularly ITAR/EAR), dealing with dual-use goods, or in similar regulatory environments is preferable. Familiarity with ESA or NASA-related regulatory frameworks is an added advantage.
• Skills: Excellent analytical and conceptual skills, strong negotiation skills, and the ability to address legal risks in a pragmatic, solution-oriented manner.
• Languages: Fluency in German and English (both spoken and written) is essential. Business-level English is required.
• Mindset & Working Style: A strong service orientation and a pragmatic approach to work, along with effective communication skills, are crucial for successful interactions with researchers, industry representatives, and regulatory authorities.

By drafting clear and balanced contractual provisions, you will lay the foundations for successful international collaborations. You should be able to manage a demanding portfolio independently and conduct complex contract negotiations efficiently and goal-oriented.

If you have a keen interest in the space sector, cutting-edge technology, and international research collaborations, along with a passion for scientific innovation, you are ideally suited for this role.

Workplace

At ETH Zurich, you will have the opportunity to contribute actively to the establishment and ongoing development of ETH Zurich - Space in a vibrant international working environment that intersects research, technology, and innovation. Collaborating with leading researchers and renowned partner organizations worldwide, your responsibilities will involve challenging and varied tasks with a high degree of personal responsibility and creative freedom. We offer flexible working arrangements and attractive terms of employment.

We Offer

• The opportunity to actively shape the establishment and further development of ETH Zurich - Space.
• An exciting international working environment at the intersection of research, technology, and innovation.
• The chance to collaborate with leading researchers and esteemed partner organizations worldwide.
• Challenging and varied tasks with a high degree of personal responsibility and creative freedom.
• Flexible working arrangements and appealing terms of employment at ETH Zurich.
• Benefits, including public transport season tickets, car-sharing schemes, a variety of sports activities organized by the ASVZ, childcare, and attractive pension schemes.

We Value Diversity and Sustainability

Aligned with our values, ETH Zurich promotes an inclusive culture. We foster equality of opportunity, value diversity, and nurture an environment where the rights and dignity of all staff and students are respected. Visit our Equal Opportunities and Diversity website to learn how we ensure a fair and open environment that encourages growth and flourishing. Sustainability is a core value for us, and we are committed to working towards a climate-neutral future.

Curious? So Are We.

We look forward to receiving your online application using the form below.

• Cover letter
• CV
• Employment references and diplomas

For further information about ETH's Research Contracts Group and ETH Zurich - Space, please visit our website. If you have any questions, you may contact Andreas Klöti, Head of the Research Contracts Group at andreas.kloeti@sl.ethz.ch (no applications).

Please note that only candidates whose applications match 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 the direct transfer of new knowledge into society. Over 30,000 students and staff from more than 120 countries find our university to be a nurturing environment that promotes independent thinking and inspires excellence. Situated in the heart of Europe, while fostering global connections, we work together to develop solutions for the pressing challenges of today and tomorrow.