MaP Executive Director

The ETH Zürich Competence Center for Materials and Processes (MaP) is a multidisciplinary scientific network devoted to tackling the grand challenges in materials, processes and manufacturing technologies. We foster cross-disciplinary research, education, and outreach to other academic institutes, industry and society in this field. Current major initiatives of MaP are the MaP Doctoral School and ETH Sabbatical | CAS AMaP continuing education programme. To lead the executive office as the central coordination hub, MaP is currently hiring a new Executive Director, starting from 1 July 2026 or earlier on agreement.

Project background

We are seeking an individual who is highly motivated to manage and develop MaP, together with the Steering Committee and the community of over 80 affiliated research groups. The Executive Director is responsible for leading the executive office, including managing strategy, human resources, finances, as well as operations and activities, governance and communications. The main focus of this key interfacing role is on community building and managing multi-stakeholder collaboration across a broad range of themes, therefore requiring a broad understanding of the grand challenges in Materials and Processes. The position embraces the designing, managing and overseeing of all research, education and outreach programs of MaP, including the MaP Doctoral School and ETH Sabbatical | CAS AMaP.

Job description

Strategic Leadership & Office Management

• Manage and develop MaP in close collaboration with the Steering Committee and a community of over 80 affiliated research groups.
• Lead the executive office, taking full responsibility for its operations and daily activities.
• Oversee core management areas, including strategy, human resources, finances, and governance.

Collaboration & Community Building

• Foster community building and manage multi-stakeholder collaboration across a broad range of themes.
• Act as a key interface between various research groups and research entities.
• Direct/Develop communication strategies to engage and connect the MaP community.

Program Management & Oversight

• Design, manage, and oversee all MaP research, education, and outreach programs.
• Direct specific initiatives, including the MaP Doctoral School and the ETH Sabbatical | CAS AMaP.

Profile

• The successful candidate has a strong academic background in science and/or engineering and ample work experience in topics relevant to Materials and Processes.
• Given the requirement to work across disciplines, sectors and cultures, the candidate must have excellent communication and organisational skills and experience in community building and further participatory processes.
• Strong project and business management skills are essential, from strategy and conceptualisation to planning and effective implementation, along with budgeting, financial management, evaluation and reporting.
• The ability to work in a motivated, independent, responsible, resourceful and resilient manner is vital.
• And, ideally, the candidate has already gained some hands-on experience in managing people, having budget responsibility and running research projects and education programs. Fluency in English and German is required.

We offer

We offer a dynamic work environment with a high degree of freedom in design and implementation and many opportunities for an individual with commensurate qualifications, a can-do attitude, and a proactive and creative mindset to further her/his professional goals. The position is limited to one year, with the possibility of extension depending on the further development of MaP and its initiatives.

Working, teaching and research at ETH Zurich

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, including:

• Cover letter describing your motivation, experience and qualification for the position
• Recent and comprehensive CV
• Diplomas and relevant work certificates
• If available, 1-3 professional reference letter(s) of people who are familiar with your work and skills

Please note that we exclusively accept applications submitted through our online application portal. Applications via email or postal services will not be considered. Questions regarding the position should be directed to MaP Chair, Prof. Dr. Ralph Spolenak, ralph.spolenak@mat.ethz.ch (no applications).

For recruitment services the GTC of ETH Zurich apply.

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.