Lead SwissCore in Brussels: steer EU partnerships, empower Swiss research, education and innovation, and build lasting, cross-border collaboration.
Head of SwissCore 80-100%
SwissCore, the liaison office in Brussels, serves as a link between the Swiss and European communities in the fields of education, research and innovation, and supports the participation of Swiss ERI institutions in European programmes in these areas. It is funded by the Swiss National Science Foundation (SNSF), the State Secretariat for Education, Research and Innovation (SERI) and Innosuisse. It is part of the Division International Cooperation of the Swiss National Science Foundation. Its Swiss partners are Euresearch in the fields of research and innovation, Movetia in the field of education, swissuniversities and the ETH Board in all three areas.
For the liaison office in Brussels, we are looking for you as Head of SwissCore 80-100%. The planned start date for this role is 1 January 2027. The position is limited to five years.
Your Responsibilities
You are responsible for the operational and administrative management of the office, ensuring the smooth and efficient running of all day-to-day activities.
You promote the interests of Swiss stakeholders in research, innovation, and education at the European level. In doing so, you are responsible for implementing the strategy agreed upon with the co-funding partners and achieving the defined objectives.
You provide targeted, high-quality information and analyses on research, innovation, and education in Europe and Switzerland, enabling stakeholders to make informed decisions.
You support Switzerland's participation in European research, innovation, and education programmes and actively collaborate with Swiss stakeholders within the framework of EU funding programmes.
You establish, develop, and maintain strong relationships with Swiss and European stakeholders to foster effective cooperation and long-term partnerships.
Your Profile
You hold a university degree at Master's level or an equivalent qualification. A PhD is considered an asset.
You have at least five years of professional experience in a relevant field related to research, education, or innovation in either the public or private sector. In addition, you bring proven leadership experience.
You possess an in-depth understanding of the Swiss research, innovation, and education landscape, as well as European research policy and funding programmes.
You are fluent in English, German, and French and have excellent written communication skills.
You are a motivated and diplomatic professional with strong persuasive skills. You are eager to promote European cooperation, build and maintain a strong network of stakeholders, and lead a small, dynamic team successfully.
What We Offer
Varied and exciting role in a multicultural and open environment
Work in a small and dynamic team
Attractive workplace in Brussels' European Quarter
Fixed-term employment for five years (non-renewable)
Swiss employment contract with good social benefits, six weeks of holiday, a 42-hour working week and an expatriation allowance
This is an exciting working environment at the interface of research, politics and international relations. The SNSF/SwissCore stands for equal opportunities, diversity and the promotion of innovative research ideas. We offer you a position with creative freedom, flexible working arrangements and attractive employment conditions. Visit our benefits page for more details.
If you recognise yourself in this description and are interested in this position within our organisation, please send us your application via this link. We look forward to getting to know you.
Review your candidate journey.
The position is limited to five years. The start date is planned for 1 January 2027 or by agreement.
Your contact persons
For any questions regarding the application process:
Mustafa Ikar, Talent Acquisition & Employer Branding Partner
Tel.: +41 31 308 21 68
For any role-related questions:
Dr. Laure Ognois, Head of International Cooperation
Tel.: +41 31 308 21 08
The Swiss National Science Foundation (SNSF) is committed to fostering a professional, and inclusive working environment in which all employees are treated with respect and dignity. We are an equal opportunity employer that does not discriminate based on origin, gender, age, religion, sexual orientation or other personal characteristics. For us, diversity is a strength that enriches our collaboration and strengthens our impact as a funding institution.