About ETH4D

ETH for Development (ETH4D)

is an ETH-wide initiative which develops innovations that address global challenges and educates future leaders in sustainable development.

ETH4D is offering a Programme Manager position to set up and run a new research programme. The programme aims to advance research-based innovations for global urban development and sustainable infrastructure systems by fostering collaboration between researchers from all fields of the ETH domain and international partners from policy, practice, and industry.

This is an ideal position for recent PhD graduates interested in transitioning into research management.

Job description

As Programme Manager, starting from 1 July or 1 August 2026 you will play a key role in setting up and managing the research programme. You will coordinate the launch, facilitate collaborations, and manage the call for proposal and selection process.

Key responsibilities include:

• Setting up the programme’s application and selection process
• Developing and implementing the communication and outreach strategy
• Preparing communication materials
• Organizing events
• Managing the call for proposals
• Communication with various stakeholders (research, practice, industry, policy)
• Supporting matchmaking and the collaboration building between researchers and practice partners
• Managing the review and selection process
• Donor reporting and finances
• Coordination with other research and teaching programmes/staff of ETH4D

The position is limited to a duration of 1 year.

Profile

• Ph.D in any discipline or experience with research management
• Excellent command of English (in writing and speaking)
• Strong organisational and project management skills
• Ability to coordinate multiple stakeholders across academia and practice
• Demonstrated interest in transdisciplinary research collaborations
• Experience with working in academic environments
• German language skills is a plus
• Experience in managing research programmes is a plus
• Experience working with international actors is a plus
• Experience in communication is a plus

We offer

• A unique opportunity to gain hands-on experience in research programme management
• Close collaboration with researchers across ETH and international practice partners
• Insight into impactful research and real-world sustainability initiatives

Curious? So are we.

We look forward to receiving your online application with the following documents in one PDF file by 5 June 2026.

• CV (max. 2 pages)
• A short video (max. 3 minutes) of yourself telling us: (1) what motivates you to apply, and (2) why you think you're a great fit for this role. We do not expect a professionally produced video. A recording with your smartphone is perfectly sufficient. Please upload the video to a platform of your choice (Dropbox, YouTube, Vimeo, Google Drive, etc.) and include the corresponding URL link in your CV.
• One letter of recommendation from a professional reference. The letter should speak directly to your fit for this position, no general employment reference (max. 1 page)