Managing Director / Managing Directress

ZNZ Managing Director

80%-100%, Zurich, permanent

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 member 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.

Project Background

The landscape of neuroscience research within the ZNZ network is diverse. Researchers from varied 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 innovative technologies. In recent years, ZNZ members have significantly contributed 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.

Job Description

The Managing Director operates largely independently and bears significant responsibility for the overall success of the Center. This role involves continuous interaction with a wide range of stakeholders, resulting in high 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

Profile

• 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

Workplace

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

We Value Diversity and Sustainability

In line with our values, ETH Zurich encourages an inclusive culture. We promote equality of opportunity, value diversity, and nurture a working and learning environment in which the rights and dignity of all our staff and students are respected. We are consistently working towards a climate-neutral future.

Curious? So Are We.

We look forward to receiving your online application using the form below. Only applications matching the job profile will be considered.

For further information about the Neuroscience Center Zurich, please visit our website and the ZNZ newsletter. Questions regarding the position may be directed to the current Managing Director, Dr. Wolfgang Knecht, at wknecht@ethz.ch.

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 a place that promotes independent thinking and inspires excellence. Located in the heart of Europe while forging connections worldwide, we work together to develop solutions for today’s and tomorrow’s global challenges.