We are seeking an Operational Manager to build and coordinate the center's community at ETH Zurich. This role involves close collaboration with the CLUE Operational Manager counterpart at EPFL, establishing strategic partnerships, and managing communication channels to further CLUE's mission of bridging research insights with real-world educational contexts.
This position is initially limited to one year, with the potential to be extended to a minimum of five years, starting on July 1, 2025, or upon mutual agreement.
About CLUE
The Center for Research on Learning, Understanding and Education (CLUE) is an interdisciplinary initiative being developed jointly between ETH Zurich and EPFL. CLUE is dedicated to advancing research and practice in learning and education throughout the lifespan. By investigating the multifaceted nature of learning—cognitive, social, emotional, cultural, physical, and technological—CLUE addresses the evolving challenges and opportunities in education caused by digitization, artificial intelligence, globalization, and shifting societal values. The center aims to foster collaboration between research and practice, developing insights and solutions informed by rigorous empirical investigations that are relevant to practitioners.
Key Responsibilities
Building and nurturing the CLUE community.
Creating a core community of CLUE members across affiliated labs at both ETH Zurich and EPFL, in collaboration with Jessica Dehler Zufferey, the EPFL Operational Manager for CLUE.
Developing formats for regular communication, collaboration, and networking among research groups.
Establishing mechanisms to gather input, needs, and feedback from community members.
Managing the ETH Zurich side of the Joint Doctoral Program on Learning Sciences (JDPLS) and ensuring seamless integration with the CLUE ecosystem.
Building a network of CLUE participants, including pedagogical universities, other universities, and education administration.
Establishing strategic partnerships and external relations.
Liaising with related service units at ETH Zurich and EPFL to strengthen connections between research and educational practice.
Developing partnerships with schools and educational institutions.
Identifying and pursuing funding opportunities and mandates.
Conducting analysis of similar initiatives to develop strategies for differentiation and positioning.
Managing communication and events, including preparing and maintaining the CLUE website and communication channels.
Coordinating communication representatives from both institutions.
Organizing CLUE events, workshops, and networking opportunities.
Creating local organizational structures at ETH Zurich.
Candidate Profile
The ideal candidate will possess the following qualifications:
An advanced degree, ideally in education, psychology, social sciences, or a related field relevant to learning and education.
Several years of experience in project or program management, preferably in a research or educational environment.
Strong community-building and networking skills, with the ability to connect diverse stakeholders.
Experience in identifying funding opportunities and developing strategic partnerships.
Excellent communication and interpersonal skills for effectively engaging with researchers, educators, and administrative stakeholders.
A proactive and independent work ethic with the ability to organize and prioritize multiple tasks.
A genuine interest in educational innovation and the mission of bridging research and practice.
Fluency in English and German, both written and spoken; knowledge of French is an advantage.
What We Offer
Join ETH Zurich and contribute to positive societal change while enjoying:
An opportunity to help shape an innovative research center from its inception.
A dynamic and interdisciplinary work environment that connects research and educational practice.
Flexible working arrangements and a collaborative team culture.
Commitment to sustainability and a climate-neutral university.
Numerous benefits, including public transport season tickets, car sharing, a wide range of sports offered by the ASVZ, childcare, and attractive pension benefits.
Workplace
Your position will initially be situated within the Professorship for Social Brain Sciences, led by Prof. Dr. Emily S. Cross, within the Department of Humanities, Social and Political Sciences (D-GESS) at ETH Zurich. As the organizational structure of CLUE develops, your role will eventually transition to being situated within CLUE, which will operate independently yet in collaboration with academic departments across ETH Zurich.
Apply online using the form below. Please ensure that your application includes:
Your CV
A motivation letter
Work references and diplomas
Only applications matching the job profile will be considered. For any inquiries regarding the position, please contact Prof. Dr. Emily S. Cross, Co-Director of CLUE at ETH Zurich, at .