Executive / Personal Assistant to the Director - maternity cover

The Friedrich Miescher Institute for Biomedical Research (FMI) is looking for an experienced and committed Executive Assistant to the Director for a twelve-month maternity cover, beginning in August 2025 or earlier.

As Executive Assistant, you will provide administrative and organizational support to the FMI Director. You enjoy working within a vibrant international research environment and bring plenty of initiative and drive, along with the ability to think independently and to prioritize effectively. The role requires a committed individual who will be the primary interface between FMI members and the Director, and who possesses the insight, judgment and skills to serve effectively in a diverse, international community.

In this role, you will

• Manage the Director’s agenda and travel arrangements.
• Screen, prioritize and follow up on incoming mail, emails and phone calls, especially during the Director’s absence.
• Coordinate special projects, events and reports involving internal and external stakeholders.
• Initiate, organize and attend senior management and board meetings, and take detailed meeting minutes.

About you

• You have completed academic or commercial education (Bachelor, KV or equivalent).
• You bring several years’ experience supporting senior management, ideally in a research, academic or international environment.
• You demonstrate excellent organizational, digital and calendar management skills, including coordinating complex meetings and events.
• You possess outstanding communication skills in both English and German, written and spoken.
• You are reliable, hands-on, flexible, and able to perform under pressure.

What we offer

• A 1-year contract with an attractive compensation and benefits package.
• A friendly, supportive and experienced administrative team.
• A dynamic, multidisciplinary, and international environment that values diversity, inclusion, and the contributions of every individual.

Please submit your application online at www.fmi.ch/opening by May 25, 2025.

Your application should include:

• A letter of motivation
• Your CV
• The names and contact details of 2-3 referees

For further information, please contact Prof. Dirk Schübeler, Director FMI () or Jitka Steuer, Head People & Organization ()

Please note that only applications submitted directly from candidates will be considered. We are not working with agencies or third-party recruiters for this role.

About the FMI

The FMI is a world-class biomedical research institute affiliated with the University of Basel and Novartis Biomedical Research. With an international staff of about 330 people, including more than 150 postdoctoral fellows and graduate students, the FMI conducts cutting-edge research in genome regulation, multicellular systems and neurobiology. We are located in the vibrant city of Basel, Switzerland’s third-largest city and Europe’s leading hub for the life sciences.

At the FMI, diversity is the cornerstone of innovation and collaboration. We foster an inclusive environment where everyone can thrive and contribute meaningfully. We welcome applicants of all genders, cultures, ethnicities, and demographics who can complement our existing team. Join us in building a scientific community that represents and benefits the world we study.