Operational Manager / Operational Manageress

Operational Manager - Center for Research on Learning, Understanding & Instruction (CLUE)

60%-90%, Zurich, fixed-term

We are seeking an Operational Manager to build and coordinate the center's community at ETH Zurich, collaborate closely with their CLUE Operational Manager counterpart at EPFL, establish strategic partnerships, and manage communication channels to advance CLUE's mission of bridging research insights with real-world educational contexts.

The position is initially limited to one year, with the potential for extension to a minimum of 5 years, starting from 1 July 2025, or upon mutual agreement.

Project Background

The Center for Research on Learning, Understanding and Education (CLUE) is an interdisciplinary initiative developed jointly by ETH Zurich and EPFL. The center is dedicated to advancing research and practice in learning and education throughout the lifespan. By investigating the multidimensional nature of learning across cognitive, social, emotional, cultural, physical, and technological dimensions, CLUE addresses the evolving challenges and opportunities in education due to digitization, artificial intelligence, globalization, and changing societal values. The center fosters collaboration between research and practice, generating insights and solutions that are informed by rigorous empirical investigation of relevant issues.

Job Description

The Operational Manager will play a central role in establishing and developing CLUE as a vibrant research community connecting ETH Zurich with educational stakeholders. You will create structures that enable effective collaboration between researchers and practitioners, ensuring that CLUE's work directly contributes to educational change for the public good.

Key responsibilities include:

• Building and nurturing the CLUE community:
  • Creating the core community of CLUE members across affiliated labs at both ETH Zurich and EPFL, in collaboration with 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 its seamless integration into the CLUE ecosystem.
  • Building up the "third circle" of CLUE participants (pedagogical universities, other universities, 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:
  • 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.

Profile

• You hold an advanced degree, ideally in education, psychology, social sciences, or a related field relevant to learning and education.
• You have several years of experience in project or program management, preferably in a research or educational environment.
• You demonstrate strong community-building and networking skills, with the ability to connect diverse stakeholders.
• You have experience in identifying funding opportunities and developing strategic partnerships.
• You possess excellent communication and interpersonal skills for effectively engaging with researchers, educators, and administrative stakeholders.
• You are a proactive and independent worker with the ability to organize and prioritize multiple tasks.
• You show genuine interest in educational innovation and the mission of bridging research and practice.
• You are fluent in English and German, both written and spoken; knowledge of French is an advantage.

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. However, as the organizational structure of CLUE develops, your position will eventually be situated within CLUE, which will operate independently but in collaboration with academic departments across ETH Zurich.

We Offer

• Your job with impact: Become part of ETH Zurich, which not only supports your professional development but also actively contributes to positive change in society.
• The opportunity to help shape an innovative research center from its inception.
• A dynamic and interdisciplinary work environment connecting research and educational practice.
• Flexible working arrangements and a collaborative team culture.
• We are actively committed to a sustainable and climate-neutral university.
• You can expect numerous benefits, such as public transport season tickets and car sharing, a wide range of sports offered by the ASVZ, childcare, and attractive pension benefits.

We Value Diversity

In line with our values, ETH Zurich promotes an inclusive culture. We encourage equality of opportunity, value diversity, and 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 more about how we ensure a fair and open environment that allows everyone to thrive.

Curious? So Are We!

Apply online using the form below. Only applications matching the job profile will be considered.

About ETH Zurich

ETH Zurich is one of the world’s leading universities specializing in science and technology. Renowned for our excellent education, cutting-edge fundamental research, and direct transfer of new knowledge into society, we attract over 30,000 people from more than 120 countries. Our university fosters independent thinking and provides an environment that inspires excellence. Located in the heart of Europe while forging connections worldwide, we collaborate to develop solutions for today’s global challenges.