Mediation Support Program Officer / Mediation Support Program Officeress

Introduction

The Center for Security Studies (CSS) at ETH Zurich is recognized as a center of competence for both Swiss and international security policy. We provide security policy expertise across research, teaching, and consultancy initiatives.

Project Background

The Think Tank of the CSS acts as a vital link between researchers and practitioners in the field of security policy. It serves as a point of contact and reference for the wider public. The Mediation and Peace Section of the Think Tank supports efforts to negotiate, mediate, and transform violent political conflicts through research, training, and direct support for those engaged in peace practice and conflict transformation processes. We are seeking an individual to join our team as a (Senior) Program Officer for our “Culture and Religion in Mediation” Program (CARIM), a collaborative initiative between the CSS ETH Zurich and the Swiss Federal Department of Foreign Affairs (FDFA). CARIM aims to enhance Swiss and international mediation efforts by thoughtfully engaging with the diverse narratives, legal traditions, and worldviews that shape conflict and the negotiation of political solutions.

Job Responsibilities

The successful candidate will be a key member of the Mediation and Peace Team, contributing to the implementation and further development of the CARIM Program. The position entails the following responsibilities:

• Supporting and, where appropriate, leading the implementation of CARIM activities
• Conducting applied research and knowledge management related to mediation in peace processes
• Designing and delivering training programs on negotiation, mediation, and related capacity-building activities
• Providing direct support to conflict analysis, dialogue, negotiation, and mediation processes in various conflict contexts
• Contributing to the training and development of future mediators, peace practitioners, and conflict parties through established programs (such as Peace Mediation and the MAS Mediation) as well as tailored courses
• Focusing particularly on the role of narratives and legal traditions in shaping conflict dynamics, negotiations, and mediation processes
• Undertaking coordination, organizational, and program management tasks related to the CARIM Program
• Contributing to the further development of the Program’s activities, networks, and knowledge base at the intersection of research and practice

Your Profile

The ideal candidate will possess the following qualifications and skills:

• A relevant MA degree in social sciences or humanities (e.g. peace and conflict studies, political science, sociology, anthropology, environmental studies)
• A minimum of three years’ experience related to mediation, mediation support, project management, or applied research in the peace and conflict field
• Experience working and living in a conflict-affected context, as well as hands-on involvement in conflict transformation efforts
• Demonstrated ability in writing, publishing, and editing applied research
• Work experience within international organizations, NGOs, or think tanks focused on mediation and mediation support
• Experience addressing inter-cultural dimensions and narratives in conflict and mediation
• Curiosity, cooperative spirit, and strong analytical, organizational, and interpersonal skills
• A proactive approach to tasks, with an ability to work independently and collaborate effectively within a team
• Willingness to travel, including to conflict-affected contexts
• Fluency in English is required; proficiency in at least one Swiss national language is a distinct advantage, and additional language skills are beneficial

We Offer

We provide a unique opportunity to apply and further develop mediation support and research skills within a university-based think tank dedicated to security and peace issues. The appointment is for a term of two years, with the option for extension based on funding and mutual agreement.

Our office is located in the heart of Zurich, offering attractive working conditions. Opportunities for further training and applied research, as well as publishing results in various formats and providing process support related to peace mediation, are integral to your career development and our personnel policy.

Interested? So Are We!

We invite you to apply online using the form below and submit the following documents:

• Curriculum Vitae (CV)
• Letter of interest outlining your skills and motivations for the position
• One or two writing samples (e.g., an academic article, policy brief, or thesis chapter)
• At least two references we can contact if you are invited for an interview
• A copy of your Master’s degree and any relevant job references

The deadline for applications is 31 October 2026. Please note that only applications matching the job profile will be considered.

For more information about our work, please visit our website.

We would like to emphasize that the pre-selection process is conducted by responsible recruiters, not artificial intelligence.