Associate to the Directors at ETH AI Center

The ETH AI Center is one of the largest AI centers in Europe with over 120 Professors from all 16 departments of ETH Zurich and over 1500 associated PhD students & post-docs. Our mission is to foster interdisciplinary AI research and pave the way from science to society.

Project background

The Associate to the Directors will work directly with the Executive Director and Co-Director of the ETH AI Center supporting strategic, operational, and scientific initiatives across the Center. This is a dynamic, proactive role that offers unparalleled access to the inner workings of one of Europe’s leading AI research hubs.

This position is designed as a launchpad for exceptional individuals, usually in a 1-2 year capacity, offering broad and deep exposure to the AI research landscape, innovation ecosystems, academic-industry collaboration, and science policy. Associates gain hands-on experience in science strategy, research management, and institutional leadership – ideal preparation for future roles in academia, industry, or entrepreneurship.

Your exceptional ability to simplify complex concepts, follow through, and get things done will be essential to driving projects and initiatives forward to hit their goals.

Job description

• Assist in setting up new initiatives and projects from ideation to funding, actively following up on project milestones, reporting, finances, and deliverables
• Create compelling presentations, collaboration agreements, and other relevant documentation to support project initiatives
• Project-manage Swiss National AI Institute governance meetings with EPFL counterparts
• Collaborate with teams to introduce and enhance processes, such as OKR (Objectives and Key Results) reviews, to optimize efficiency and performance
• Work directly with the Directors and the ETH AI Center executive team on key strategic initiatives, providing valuable insights and support
• Own some admin tasks such as managing inbound requests and scheduling for the Directors and the Center as needed
• Support the core leadership team with the outstanding initiatives

The position is limited to a duration of 1 year with the intention to extend.

Profile

Qualifications

• Strong interpersonal and communication skills – able to build trust, collaborate across disciplines, and to steer teams towards common objectives.
• Skilled at capturing and structuring discussions and decisions through clear meeting minutes and follow-up actions.
• Proactive, detail-oriented, and solution-driven mindset.
• Excellent organizational skills with a proven ability to manage multiple priorities and meet deadlines.
• Entrepreneurial mindset with a strong curiosity and hunger for learning, constantly seeking out new ideas and opportunities in the field of artificial intelligence and related disciplines.

Requirements

• A bachelor's or master's degree
• Prior experience in a similar role in project management, consulting, academia, or a tech/startup environment is a strong plus
• A demonstrated passion for artificial intelligence research and a strong interest in driving innovation in the field
• Proven ability to work independently, take initiative, and manage multiple tasks simultaneously
• Strong analytical skills and attention to detail, with the ability to think critically and strategically

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
• 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 and sustainability

In line with

our values

, ETH Zurich encourages an inclusive culture. We promote equality of opportunity, value diversity and nurture a working and learning environment in which the rights and dignity of all our staff and students are respected. Visit our

Equal Opportunities and Diversity website

to find out how we ensure a fair and open environment that allows everyone to grow and flourish. Sustainability is a core value for us - we are consistently working towards a

climate-neutral future

.

Curious? So are we.

We look forward to receiving your online application until 30.06.2026 with the following documents:

• Resume,
• Cover letter,
• Any relevant portfolio or project samples.

Further information about ETH AI Center can be found on our

website

.

Please note that we exclusively accept applications submitted through our online application portal. Applications via email or postal services will not be considered.

About ETH Zürich

ETH Zurich is one of the world’s leading universities specialising in science and technology. We are renowned for our excellent education, cutting-edge fundamental research and direct transfer of new knowledge into society. Over 30,000 people from more than 120 countries find our university to be a place that promotes independent thinking and an environment that inspires excellence. Located in the heart of Europe, yet forging connections all over the world, we work together to develop solutions for the global challenges of today and tomorrow.