Expert in research management for the Research Support Office (80–100%)
Located on a modern campus in Brig, UniDistance Suisse, an accredited university institute in accordance with the Swiss Higher Education Act (HEdA), has been offering bachelor’s and master’s degree programmes and further education in the faculties of Law, Psychology, Mathematics, Computer Science, Economics and History for over 30 years. These programmes meet the highest quality standards and are designed to fit around family life or a professional or sporting career through a flexible distance-learning model. The institute aims to obtain university status in 2027, becoming a Valais university and marking a major milestone in its history.
With nearly 2,400 students and 500 employees, of whom more than 450 are involved in teaching and research activities, UniDistance Suisse has a strong academic community. We are consistently committed to diversity, equality and inclusion to create an inspiring and supportive working environment for all.
To strengthen and further develop our scientific research activities, UniDistance Suisse is seeking a motivated person for the position of:
Expert in research management for the Research Support Office (80–100%)
Place ofwork: Brig, with the option of working from home part-time
Start date: 1 April 2025 or as agreed
Type ofcontract: Permanent
Research at UniDistance Suisse is geared towards academic excellence, feeding into university teaching and our vocation as an academic institution. The continuous development of research activities is a central component of our strategy, providing innovative impetus in the respective disciplines and addressing socially relevant issues.
The open position is part of the Rectorate’s Office and reports to the Vice-Rector for Research. As the central point of contact for all research-related topics, you will support the Rectorate and researchers in the sustainable development of research at UniDistance Suisse. Together with the Vice-Rector for Research, you will shape the research strategy and create framework conditions that foster excellence and visibility.
Your tasks
- Establish and further develop a sustainable research infrastructure.
- Advise and support researchers in the acquisition of third-party funding (e.g. SNSF, European Commission) and the realisation of research projects.
- Promote networking at national and international level.
- Implement and ensure good scientific practice (e.g. open science).
- Support early career researchers.
- Quality assurance and further development of the research portfolio.
Your profile
- Doctoral degree (or equivalent experience in a research-intensive environment), ideally in one of UniDistance Suisse’s areas of expertise.
- Proven experience in the higher education sector, specifically in the field of competitive funding acquisition and research policy.
- Analytical thinking, strong organisational and communication skills, initiative and team spirit.
- Fluent in German or French with good knowledge of the other language; excellent knowledge of spoken and written English.
- Statistical and programming skills are a plus.
We offer
- Plenty of room for manoeuvre: You are taking up an exciting, newly created position.
- Stimulating work environment: You will have the opportunity to work in a constantly evolving, dynamic academic environment with diverse projects that leave room for creativity and innovation.
- Attractive employment conditions: UniDistance Suisse offers numerous benefits, contributions to travel expenses, generous social benefits and an attractive continuing education policy.
- Flexibility: We guarantee a hybrid working model with a high degree of organisational flexibility that supports your work-life balance.
- Dedicated team: At UniDistance Suisse, you will be part of a dedicated, multidisciplinary team that is committed to innovation and the success of our projects.
- Modern and pleasant working environment: Our campus is just a few minutes’ walk from the charming old town of Brig and the SBB railway station, close to beautiful natural areas and famous mountain resorts. It therefore offers a unique and inspiring working environment.
Your application
We look forward to receiving your complete application (cover letter max. 2 pages, CV including list of publications, proof of academic degrees, copies of diplomas and titles, work references, indication of two reference contacts) sent by e-mail as a single PDF document by 23 March 2025 to Human Resources: jobs@unidistance.ch.
Applications will be considered from people residing in Switzerland or intending to relocate.
For further information, please contact Prof. Dr Anthony Strittmatter, Full Professor of Economics and Vice-Rector for Research ad interim: anthony.strittmatter@unidistance.ch.
