Managing Director of the Centre for Development and Environment (CDE) / Managing Directoress of the Centre for Development and Environment (CDE) and Professor for Sustainable Development (Associate Professor, 100%) / Professoress for Sustainable Developme

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Start Date

01.01.2028 or another date by agreement

Employment Relationship

Permanent

Institution / Workplace

Centre for Development and Environment (CDE)

About Us

The Centre for Development and Environment (CDE) is an internationally recognized leader in sustainable development. With a dedicated team of around 100 professionals based in Bern, CDE collaborates closely with institutional partners across Africa, Southeast Asia, Latin America, and beyond. Our work spans science, policy, civil society, and the private sector to tackle urgent social-ecological challenges. Current strategic focuses include:

• Ecosystem regeneration for sustainable livelihoods
• Sustainable food systems and land investments
• Just and resource-light economies
• Institutions for sustainability
• Competencies for sustainability transformations

For more information, visit www.cde.unibe.ch.

Your Profile

We are seeking candidates who hold a PhD in a relevant field of sustainable development and demonstrate recognized international research in sustainability transformations. The ideal applicant should possess:

• A strong record in managing complex inter- and transdisciplinary research organizations
• Proven organizational and strategic leadership skills
• The ability to enhance the Centre's profile in sustainability sciences
• Capacity to foster partnerships with policy, civil society, the private sector, and administration

Requirements

Candidates should have extensive experience in shaping transnational research partnerships, particularly with countries in the Global South. A proven track record in securing third-party funding for academic research and implementation projects is essential. Additionally, we expect:

• A cooperative leadership style and intercultural competence
• Experience in knowledge transfer
• Outstanding management and communication skills
• The ability to inspire and lead interdisciplinary and transdisciplinary teams
• Familiarity with Swiss and international science and development policy
• Recognition as a trusted partner for national and international implementation agencies

Command of at least one of Switzerland's national languages and familiarity with its academic system is advantageous. Fluency in English is required. The professorship will be hosted at CDE and affiliated with one of the departments or institutes of the Faculty of Science.

Your Benefits

• An inspiring work environment
• Access to strong research infrastructure and an international network
• Reputation for excellence on a global scale
• A central location in the heart of Bern

Working at the University of Bern

The University of Bern offers not only exciting tasks but also an environment that actively promotes development, diversity, and equal opportunities. Discover what sets us apart as an employer and explore how you can grow with us.

Application and Contact

To apply, please apply online using the form below. Only applications matching the job profile will be considered.

The expected starting date is 1 January 2028 or a mutually agreed date. This position is based at the University of Bern, with regular travel to CDE's partnership regions in Africa, Asia, and Latin America. The salary will be determined according to the personnel law of the Canton of Bern.

Questions about the Position?

Contact: ben.jann@unibe.ch

Questions about the Application?

Contact: applications.natdek@unibe.ch