Co-Director ETH AI Center

The ETH AI Center is one of the largest AI centers in Europe with over 120 Professors from all 16 departments of ETH Zurich and over 1500 PhD students & post-docs. Our mission is to foster interdisciplinary AI research and pave the way from science to society. With the recently launched Swiss National AI Institute (SNAI) and its flagship project on large-scale AI foundation models, we aim to expand our leadership team. Project background You will oversee the core operations of the ETH AI Center and work closely with the Executive Director and Chairman in co-developing and executing the strategic vision with affiliated faculty and staff. You will ensure that the center’s resources are aligned with ETH Zurich and the center’s strategic goals and that its activities are effectively coordinated across research, education, and innovation programs. Lead and inspire a talented team of 20+ individuals to achieve innovation and growth. Manage the center’s financial and operational resources with high efficiency. Collaborate with the Executive Director and support the Chairman in defining and executing the strategic vision and objectives for the ETH AI Center. Secure funding through grants, sponsorships, and partnerships, and be the primary contact for the ETH Foundation. Foster innovation by driving collaboration and leveraging synergies between the ETH AI Center and the Swiss National AI Institute, engaging with the researcher/industrial/start-up ecosystem. Oversee the allocation of budgets, personnel, and shared resources across ETH AI Center teams, ensuring efficient coordination between Research & Center Operations, Innovation & Entrepreneurship, Outreach & Communications, and special projects. Coordinate the deployment of shared personnel (e.g., Tech Leads, Research Engineers, Project Managers) to support multiple projects, balancing priorities and resolving conflicts. Represent the ETH AI Center in national and international forums to promote its mission and impact. Profile For this position, you will require the following skills: A PhD or equivalent advanced degree in computer science, engineering, science or mathematics, or related fields. Proven leadership experience in academia, AI research institutions, industry, large multidisciplinary organizations with operational management responsibilities and strategic leadership skills. Proven ability to execute on long-term goals while managing day-to-day operations effectively. Proven ability for interdisciplinary collaboration and projects at the intersection of academia, entrepreneurship, and industry. You have a proactive personality that inspires others with your ideas and your vision. You are willing to make decisions and represent your views confidently, carefully, but also solution-oriented. You are integrative and involve a variety of stakeholders at the center and beyond. Strong verbal and written communication skills both in English and German. Exceptional communication and negotiation skills (in English and German) with a focus on creating pragmatic solutions. A passion for fostering a positive team culture and work environment that encourages collaboration and empowers staff, students, and researchers alike. Workplace We offer Your career with impact: Become part of ETH Zurich, which not only supports your professional development, but also actively contributes to positive change in society. 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. We look forward to receiving your online application by March 31 with the following documents: Letter of motivation Diplomas References 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 (Department/Institute) can be found on our website. Questions regarding the position should be directed to Natalia Marciniak at (no applications). ETH Zurich is one of the world’s leading universities specializing 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. #J-18808-Ljbffr