MaP Executive Director / MaP Executive Director

MaP Executive Director

80%-100%, Zurich, fixed-term

The ETH Zürich Competence Center for Materials and Processes (MaP) is a multidisciplinary scientific network dedicated to addressing the grand challenges in materials, processes, and manufacturing technologies. We promote cross-disciplinary research, education, and outreach to academic institutions, industry, and society. Current significant initiatives of MaP include the MaP Doctoral School and the ETH Sabbatical | CAS AMaP continuing education program. We are currently seeking a new Executive Director to lead the executive office as the central coordination hub, with a start date of 1 July 2026 or earlier by agreement.

Project Background

We are looking for a highly motivated individual to manage and develop MaP alongside the Steering Committee and the community of over 80 affiliated research groups. The Executive Director will be responsible for leading the executive office, managing strategy, human resources, finances, operations, governance, and communications. This pivotal role focuses on community building and managing multi-stakeholder collaboration across a diverse range of themes, necessitating a broad understanding of the significant challenges in Materials and Processes. The position will also involve designing, managing, and overseeing all research, education, and outreach programs of MaP, including the MaP Doctoral School and ETH Sabbatical | CAS AMaP.

Job Description

Strategic Leadership & Office Management

• Manage and develop MaP in close collaboration with the Steering Committee and a community of over 80 affiliated research groups.
• Lead the executive office, fully responsible for its operations and daily activities.
• Oversee core management areas, including strategy, human resources, finances, and governance.

Collaboration & Community Building

• Foster community building and manage multi-stakeholder collaboration across a broad range of themes.
• Act as a key interface between various research groups and research entities.
• Develop communication strategies to engage and connect the MaP community.

Program Management & Oversight

• Design, manage, and oversee all MaP research, education, and outreach programs.
• Direct specific initiatives, including the MaP Doctoral School and the ETH Sabbatical | CAS AMaP.

Profile

• The ideal candidate will possess a strong academic background in science and/or engineering, along with substantial work experience relevant to Materials and Processes.
• Candidate must have excellent communication and organizational skills, as well as experience in community building and participatory processes.
• Strong project and business management skills are essential, extending from strategy and conceptualization to planning and effective implementation, alongside budgeting, financial management, evaluation, and reporting.
• Must demonstrate the ability to work in a motivated, independent, responsible, resourceful, and resilient manner.
• Experience in managing people, budget responsibility, and running research projects and education programs is desirable. Fluency in English and German is required.

Workplace

Located in Zurich, ETH Zurich offers a dynamic work environment that fosters professional growth and innovation.

We Offer

We provide a stimulating work environment with a high degree of freedom in design and implementation, coupled with numerous opportunities for individuals with the appropriate qualifications and a proactive, creative mindset to advance their professional goals. This position is initially limited to one year, with the possibility of extension based on the ongoing development of MaP and its initiatives.

We Value Diversity and Sustainability

ETH Zurich is committed to promoting an inclusive culture that values diversity and ensures equal opportunities. We nurture a working and learning environment where the rights and dignity of all staff and students are respected. Visit our Equal Opportunities and Diversity website to learn how we foster a fair and open environment that enables everyone to grow and flourish. Sustainability is a core value for us, and we continually strive towards a climate-neutral future.

Curious? So Are We.

We look forward to your online application, which should include:

• Cover letter outlining your motivation, experience, and qualifications for the position.
• Recent and comprehensive CV.
• Diplomas and relevant work certificates.
• If available, 1-3 professional reference letters from individuals familiar with your work and skills.

Apply online using the form below. Please note that only applications matching the job profile will be considered. For inquiries regarding the position, please contact MaP Chair, Prof. Dr. Ralph Spolenak, at ralph.spolenak@mat.ethz.ch (no applications).

About ETH Zürich

ETH Zurich is one of the world's leading universities specializing in science and technology. Renowned for its excellent education, cutting-edge fundamental research, and direct transfer of new knowledge into society, ETH Zurich hosts over 30,000 individuals from more than 120 countries, promoting independent thinking in an environment that inspires excellence. Located in the heart of Europe and fostering connections globally, we collaborate to develop solutions for today's and tomorrow's global challenges.