Managing Director / Managing Directress

Job Opportunity: Managing Director

The Managing Director is responsible for implementing the objectives of the Neuroscience Center Zurich (ZNZ), a highly interdisciplinary research network jointly supported by ETH Zurich (ETHZ) and the University of Zurich (UZH). The primary goal is to foster interaction among approximately 150 ZNZ members—research groups based at ETHZ, UZH, and the four university hospitals—in neuroscience research and training. This includes developing innovative infrastructure, securing funding for collaborative projects, promoting the translation of research findings into clinical practice, building and maintaining relationships with other research centers in Switzerland and internationally, and enhancing public awareness of the achievements of ZNZ members. The Managing Director works closely with the ZNZ Steering Committee, which is responsible for the center’s overall strategy.

About the ZNZ Network

The landscape of neuroscience research within the ZNZ network is diverse. Researchers from backgrounds including biology, medicine, psychology, biochemistry, physics, engineering, computer science, and economics investigate fundamental questions about how the brain functions in health and disease. This drives the development of new diagnostics, therapies, and “intelligent” technologies. In recent years, ZNZ members have contributed significantly to advances in therapies for dementia, multiple sclerosis, and spinal cord injury, as well as to neurorehabilitation technologies, state-of-the-art brain imaging, focused ultrasound applications, sleep research, neuroeconomics, and artificial neural networks.

Key Responsibilities

The Managing Director operates largely independently and bears significant responsibility for the overall success of the Center. As the role involves continuous interaction with a wide range of stakeholders, it carries a high level of visibility. Problem-solving across multiple advisory boards can be complex and requires strong coordination and judgment. The Managing Director leads a small team and is responsible for:

• Promoting scientific collaboration among ZNZ research groups
• Providing organizational and financial support for selected ZNZ projects
• Maintaining and strengthening relationships with external research partners
• Managing ZNZ PhD grants and coordinating travel support for students
• Directing the International PhD Program in Neuroscience at UZH and ETH Zurich
• Overseeing the Specialized Master’s Program in Interdisciplinary Brain Sciences at UZH and ETH Zurich
• Leading communication with stakeholders, including newsletters, social media, and public events
• Participating in steering committees of related units at UZH
• Organizing regular events for ZNZ members, such as annual symposia and strategy meetings

Qualifications

• PhD in natural sciences, engineering, or a related field
• Several years of postdoctoral or relevant professional experience
• Experience or knowledge in neuroscience or a related discipline
• Professional experience in clinical settings and/or the biotech/medtech industry is an advantage
• Established professional network in neuroscience, health, biotech, or medtech
• Proven experience in management and leadership roles
• Strong strategic thinking skills and the ability to translate vision into action
• Excellent communication skills and a passion for interdisciplinary collaboration
• High level of independence, decisiveness, and sense of responsibility
• Strong service orientation
• Entrepreneurial and pioneering mindset
• Team-oriented approach
• Excellent command of English; knowledge of German is an advantage

What We Offer

• The opportunity to work with a highly motivated and efficient team in a collaborative environment
• A high-impact role with ample scope for creativity and initiative
• A strongly interdisciplinary setting with meaningful contributions to medicine and technology
• Attractive employment conditions, including a comprehensive benefits package and childcare support

Apply online using the form below. Only applications matching the job profile will be considered.

Further information about the Neuroscience Center Zurich can be found on our website and in the ZNZ newsletter. Questions regarding the position should be directed to the current Managing Director, Dr. Wolfgang Knecht, at wknecht@ethz.ch.

Please note that pre-selection is carried out by the responsible recruiters and not by artificial intelligence. For recruitment services, the GTC of ETH Zurich apply.