Operational Manager - Center for Research on Learning, Understanding & Instruction (CLUE)
60%-90%, Zurich, fixed-term
We are seeking an Operational Manager to build and coordinate the center's community at ETH Zurich, collaborate closely with the CLUE Operational Manager counterpart at EPFL, establish strategic partnerships, and manage communication channels to advance CLUE's mission of bridging research insights with real-world educational contexts.
The position is initially limited to one year, with the potential for extension to a minimum of five years, starting from 1 July 2025 or upon mutual agreement.
Project Background
The Center for Research on Learning, Understanding and Education (CLUE), a collaborative initiative between ETH Zurich and EPFL, is dedicated to advancing research and practice in learning and education across the lifespan. By investigating the multidimensional aspects of learning—including cognitive, social, emotional, cultural, physical, and technological dimensions—CLUE addresses the evolving challenges and opportunities in education arising from digitization, artificial intelligence, globalization, and changing societal values. The center encourages synergy between research and practice, developing insights and solutions derived from rigorous empirical investigations that are relevant to practitioners.
Job Description
As Operational Manager, you will play a pivotal role in establishing and cultivating CLUE as a vibrant research community connecting ETH Zurich with educational stakeholders. Your responsibilities will include:
Building and Nurturing the CLUE Community
Creating the core community of CLUE members across affiliated labs at both ETH Zurich and EPFL in collaboration with the EPFL Operational Manager for CLUE.
Developing formats for regular communication, collaboration, and networking among research groups.
Establishing mechanisms to gather input, needs, and feedback from community members.
Managing the ETH Zurich side of the Joint Doctoral Program on Learning Sciences (JDPLS) and ensuring its seamless integration into the CLUE ecosystem.
Expanding the "third circle" of CLUE participants, including pedagogical universities, other universities, and education administration.
Establishing Strategic Partnerships and External Relations
Liaising with related service units at ETH Zurich and EPFL to strengthen connections between research and educational practice.
Developing partnerships with schools and educational institutions.
Identifying and pursuing funding opportunities and mandates.
Conducting analysis of similar initiatives to develop strategies for differentiation and positioning.
Managing Communication and Events
Preparing and maintaining the CLUE website and communication channels.
Coordinating communication representatives from both institutions.
Organizing CLUE events, workshops, and networking opportunities.
Creating local organizational structures at ETH Zurich.
Profile
You hold an advanced degree, ideally in education, psychology, social sciences, or a related field with relevance to learning and education.
You have several years of experience in project or program management, preferably in a research or educational environment.
You demonstrate strong community-building and networking skills, with the ability to connect diverse stakeholders.
You have experience in identifying funding opportunities and developing strategic partnerships.
You possess excellent communication and interpersonal skills for effectively engaging with researchers, educators, and administrative stakeholders.
You are a proactive and independent worker with the ability to organize and prioritize multiple tasks.
You show genuine interest in educational innovation and the mission of bridging research and practice.
You are fluent in English and German, both written and spoken; knowledge of French is an advantage.
We Offer
Your job with impact: Become part of ETH Zurich, which supports your professional development and contributes to positive change in society.
The opportunity to help shape an innovative research center from its inception.
A dynamic and interdisciplinary work environment connecting research and educational practice.
Flexible working arrangements and a collaborative team culture.
Active commitment to a sustainable and climate-neutral university.
Numerous benefits, such as public transport season tickets, car sharing, a wide range of sports offered by the ASVZ, childcare, and attractive pension benefits.
Workplace
Your position will initially be situated within the Professorship for Social Brain Sciences, led by Prof. Dr. Emily S. Cross within the Department of Humanities, Social and Political Sciences (D-GESS) at ETH Zurich. However, as the organizational structure of CLUE develops, your position will eventually be situated within CLUE, which will operate independently but collaboratively with academic departments across ETH Zurich.
We Value Diversity
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 where the rights and dignity of all our staff and students are respected. Visit our Equal Opportunities and Diversity website to learn how we ensure a fair and open environment that allows everyone to grow and flourish.
Curious? So Are We!
We look forward to receiving your online application using the form below. Only applications matching the job profile will be considered.
CV
Motivation Letter
Work references and diplomas
Please direct your questions regarding the position to Prof. Dr. Emily S. Cross, Co-Director of CLUE at ETH Zurich, at .
About ETH Zurich
ETH Zurich is one of the world's leading universities specializing in science and technology. Renowned for excellent education, cutting-edge research, and direct transfer of new knowledge into society, over 30,000 individuals from more than 120 countries find our university to be a place that promotes independent thinking and inspires excellence. Located in the heart of Europe while forging connections globally, we work together to develop solutions for the challenges of today and tomorrow.