Position Overview
The International Relations & Data Science Group at ETH Zurich is seeking an experienced Senior Research Coordinator / Lab Manager to play a central role in the coordination, development, and execution of the group’s research activities.
This group is characterized by its diverse international composition, with team members and collaborators hailing from multiple countries and disciplines. We are looking for a candidate with substantial experience in coordinating research who can operate with a high degree of independence. The role of Senior Research Coordinator / Lab Manager is vital for supporting the effective functioning, sustainability, and strategic development of the group’s internationally oriented research portfolio, ensuring close involvement in the group’s cutting-edge research activities.
Research Project & Grant Coordination
- Take responsibility for coordinating externally funded research projects (e.g., SNSF, ERC) in close collaboration with the Principal Investigator(s), including managing timelines, deliverables, and coordination processes across international research teams.
- Support the strategic development, preparation, and submission of grant applications by coordinating inputs, timelines, and partner contributions from multiple institutions and countries; contribute to proposal development where appropriate.
- Oversee scientific and financial reporting requirements for funded projects in coordination with ETH central administration and international project partners.
- Support contract-related processes (e.g., research agreements, collaboration agreements) and serve as a liaison with ETH grants, legal, and research offices, as well as external partner institutions.
Group & External Research Coordination
- Coordinate research activities, milestones, and workflows across multiple projects and group members in a diverse, international research environment.
- Act as a central coordination point between the group and collaborating research teams at ETH Zurich and partner institutions worldwide.
- Support fieldwork and project logistics as needed.
- Help coordinate team members and maintain effective internal research processes, documentation, and knowledge sharing.
- Facilitate communication across institutions, disciplines, cultures, and time zones, ensuring smooth collaboration among diverse stakeholders.
Research Support (Depending on Profile and Interest)
Depending on experience and interest, contribute to substantive research-related tasks, such as background research, literature reviews, drafting or revising sections of grant proposals, and supporting academic publications with an international focus.
Required Qualifications
- Master’s degree (or equivalent) in international relations, political science, economics, data science, or a related field.
- Several years of relevant professional experience coordinating projects in a research environment and/or in international organizations.
- Demonstrated ability to work independently, take ownership of coordination processes, and manage complex research support tasks across multiple stakeholders and institutions.
- Strong organizational, communication, and interpersonal skills, with the ability to interact effectively with academics, researchers, and international partners.
- Excellent written and spoken English (German is an asset).
Desired Qualifications
- Experience with national and international funding schemes (e.g., SNSF, ERC).
- Familiarity with research contracts, consortium agreements, and collaboration agreements in international academic settings.
- Prior experience contributing to research activities (e.g., proposal development, publications) in addition to coordination and project management.
- Experience working in interdisciplinary and internationally diverse research teams.
- A proactive, solution-oriented working style and an interest in contributing to the longer-term development of an internationally connected research group.
Benefits
We offer numerous benefits and flexible, family-friendly working conditions. Join ETH Zurich to not only support your professional development but also actively contribute to positive change in society. We are committed to a sustainable and climate-neutral university and believe in Equal Opportunities and Diversity, guaranteeing fair employment conditions.
Application Process
Apply online using the form below. Please note that only applications matching the job profile will be considered.
Start date: Ideally in the first half of 2026, or by mutual agreement.
Workplace: ETH Zurich, with close interaction across departments and partner institutions worldwide.
For further information on the Professorship for International Relations and Data Science, please visit our website. For inquiries regarding the position, please contact Professor Dr. Livia Schubiger at livia.schubiger@gess.ethz.ch (no recommendation letters or applications).