Managing Director ETH Zurich | Space

ETH Zurich | Space is a multidisciplinary center driving innovation, research, and education in space science and technology. We actively engage with global space agencies, startups, and other leading institutions to contribute to Switzerland’s and Europe’s leadership in space. Our mission is to address critical challenges in space, train the next generation of leaders, and foster technological innovation for scientific and societal impact.

The center supports ETH students and faculty while fostering partnerships with academic, industry, and governmental organizations to propel advancements in space science and exploration, space technology, Earth observation, and the New Space economy.

Our team, comprising faculty, researchers, project managers, engineers, and students from diverse disciplines, works collaboratively to push the boundaries of space science and technology.

The ETH Zurich | Space center, invites applications for the position of Managing Director ETH Zurich | Space (100%, permanent).

You will design and oversee operations and support the Center Director in executing the strategic vision of ETH Zurich | Space in collaboration with affiliated faculty, and staff. You will ensure that the center’s resources are aligned with ETH and the center’s strategic goals and that its activities are effectively coordinated across research, education, and innovation programs.

Key responsibilities include:

• Collaborate with and support the Center Director in defining and executing the strategic vision and objectives for ETH Zurich | Space
• Manage and support space-focused research and technology projects in partnership with faculty and researchers.
• Build and strengthen collaborations with industry, space agencies (e.g., ESA, NASA), startups, academic institutions, and policymakers.
• Ensure alignment of educational initiatives - particularly the Master’s in Space Systems - with strategic goals by supporting curriculum development and mentoring a small number of students.
• Foster innovation by driving collaboration between ETH Zurich and the New Space sector, engaging with the industrial ecosystem, and supporting space-focused startups.
• Secure funding through grants, sponsorships, and partnerships, and be the primary contact for the ETH Foundation.
• Manage the center’s financial and operational resources with high efficiency.
• Lead and inspire a talented team of 20+ individuals to achieve innovation and growth.
• Oversee the allocation of budgets, personnel, and shared resources across ETH Zurich | Space’s hubs, ensuring efficient coordination between the Project Hub, Innovation Hub, entrepreneurial/business and educational programs.
• Coordinate the deployment of shared personnel (e.g., Systems Engineers, Project Managers) to support multiple projects, balancing priorities and resolving conflicts.
• Represent ETH Zurich | Space in national and international forums to promote its mission and impact.
• Accompany and shape the transition from a unit within the central administration to an ETH center with its strategic and operational challenges.

For this position, you will require the following skills: 

• A PhD or equivalent advanced degree in aerospace engineering, space science, physics, robotics, or related fields.
• Proven leadership experience in academia, research institutions, or the space industry, or large multidisciplinary organizations with operational management responsibilities and strategic leadership skills.
• A strong space system and research background, evidenced by publications, patents, or major contributions to space-related projects and missions.
• Demonstrated success in securing funding and building collaborative networks including strategic and business plan implementation, contract development, negotiation and execution.
• Experience in resource allocation, personnel coordination, and operational planning across complex projects or programs.
• Experience in engaging with international space agencies, industry leaders, and policymakers.
• Exceptional communication and negotiation skills (in English and German) and a passion for fostering interdisciplinary collaboration.
• A visionary mindset, capable of inspiring teams and advancing ETH Zurich | Space’s mission.

As Managing Director ETH Zurich | Space, you take over a significant role in driving innovation, research, and education in space science and technology. A dynamic, international, and interdisciplinary work environment at one of the leading technical universities in the world awaits you. Besides a motivated team of people sharing a passion for space and the vision to strengthen and enhance space activities at ETH Zurich, you work for a family-friendly employer with excellent working conditions. You can look forward to an exciting working environment, cultural diversity and attractive offers and benefits.