Entrepreneurship & Community Coordinator

80%-100%, Zurich, fixed-term

The ETH AI Center is one of the largest university centers in the world for artificial intelligence with over 110 Professors from all 16 departments of ETH Zurich and over 1'400 PhD students & post-docs. Our mission is to amplify human potential by fostering breakthrough ideas with interdisciplinary AI research and enabling the path from science to society. We strive to push the boundaries of AI research, foster innovation, and drive impactful projects.

Project background

We are looking for a proactive, hands-on and organized Entrepreneurship & Community coordinator to operate at the heart of execution within our ETH AI Center’s Entrepreneurship team. This role is crucial for directly implementing activities (incl. partnerships with VCs and service providers) that support our growing community of affiliated startups. It’s not about overseeing from a distance – it’s about rolling up your sleeves and getting things done. From organizing events to onboarding startups and running community programs, this person will be actively making things happen on the ground. You’ll help shape the future of AI entrepreneurship by translating strategic ideas into operational reality. 

Job description

  • Take full ownership of executing community-building efforts for affiliated startups and entrepreneurial initiatives at the ETH AI Center.
  • Take ownership of community building by being a visible and engaged presence – actively participate in events, foster direct and meaningful relationships with startups, and maintain strong, ongoing connections with founders and partners.
  • Operate and manage ongoing programs like the AI Launchpad, ensuring tasks are completed, timelines are met, and participants are fully supported.
  • Identify and reach out to new potential partners, service providers, and collaborators who can bring direct value to affiliated startups.
  • Actively scout and screen entrepreneurial talent, ensuring alignment with our community’s standards and needs.
  • Manage the operational process of onboarding new startups to the ETH AI Center – from first contact through to official affiliation.Develop a strong local network to grow the affiliated startup community and strengthen entrepreneurial initiatives at the ETH AI Center.
  • Plan, organize, and run the entrepreneurship contributions at events such as the AI + X Summit and AI House Davos – including logistics, scheduling, communication, and onsite execution.
  • Create and schedule content for digital and social media channels to engage the startup community and promote activities.
  • Take full ownership of events – from initial planning to post-event wrap-up – ensuring every detail runs smoothly

Profile

We are looking for candidates with: 

  • Proactive, detail-oriented, and solution-driven mindset.
  • Proven ability and motivation to independently set up and manage projects.
  • Excellent organizational skills and a talent for communication, facilitating effective interactions with partners and affiliated startups.
  • Hands-on experience in a startup or startup ecosystem (a plus).
  • Exceptional communication skills and communicating clearly and confidently, both in person and in writing – English fluency is essential, German is a plus. 
  • Brings prior hands-on experience from working in or with startups or startup-support organizations.
  • Is familiar with the Swiss startup ecosystem (nice to have, not required).

Workplace

Workplace




We offer

Joining our team means working in a fast-paced, dynamic environment at the intersection of cutting-edge research and entrepreneurship. You will play an essential role in shaping the startup community at one of the world’s leading AI centers and will be provided with ample opportunities for professional growth and networking.

ETH Zurich is a family-friendly employer with excellent working conditions. You can look forward to an exciting working environment, cultural diversity and attractive offers and benefits.

Working, teaching and research at 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 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.

Curious? So are we.

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

To embark on this exciting journey with us, please submit your online application including:

  • Your CV
  • A Letter of Motivation
  • References
  • And any other relevant documents.

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

Further information about the ETH AI Center can be found on our website. Questions regarding the position should be directed to Mrs Melanie Gabriel (melanie.gabriel@ai.ethz.ch) (no applications).

We would like to point out that the pre-selection is carried out by the responsible recruiters and not by artificial intelligence.

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.

Curious? So are we.

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

To embark on this exciting journey with us, please submit your online application including:

  • Your CV
  • A Letter of Motivation
  • References
  • And any other relevant documents.

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

Further information about the ETH AI Center can be found on our website. Questions regarding the position should be directed to Mrs Melanie Gabriel (melanie.gabriel@ai.ethz.ch) (no applications).

We would like to point out that the pre-selection is carried out by the responsible recruiters and not by artificial intelligence.

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.