Agroscope is looking for a:
Head of the 'Molecular Agroecology and Plant Ecology' Group
8046 Zürich | 100%-100%
good food, healthy environment
All living creatures contribute to the operation and stability of ecosystems with their biodiversity and different functions. A number of these characteristics are determined in the DNA of the organisms. The 'Molecular Agroecology and Plant Ecology' Research Group deals with and supports scientific research projects on genetic and genomic diversity, using cutting-edge molecular-biological, bioinformatic and biostatistical approaches. At the Reckenholz site, the Group runs a molecular biology Userlab and offers in-situ support for chemical analyses with the preparation of the samples and basic analysis as well as with the transfer of samples to the Posieux central laboratory.
All living creatures contribute to the operation and stability of ecosystems with their biodiversity and different functions. A number of these characteristics are determined in the DNA of the organisms. The 'Molecular Agroecology and Plant Ecology' Research Group deals with and supports scientific research projects on genetic and genomic diversity, using cutting-edge molecular-biological, bioinformatic and biostatistical approaches. At the Reckenholz site, the Group runs a molecular biology Userlab and offers in-situ support for chemical analyses with the preparation of the samples and basic analysis as well as with the transfer of samples to the Posieux central laboratory.
This is how you can contribute
- Management of the research group and the analytical chemistry laboratory in agroecology and molecular phytoecology on the technical, organisational, financial, and personnel management levels
- Management of innovative research projects in the field; strategic and scientific development of the Group
- Developing new molecular biology analysis methods for a wide range of living organisms; acquisition of third-party funding for the development of research
- Representing the Group in experts groups, in organisations and on committees as part of Agroscope, as well as at national and international level
- Responsible for publishing research results in national and international scientific journals and for establishing and maintaining a national and international network of scientific partners
This makes you unique
- University degree with a PhD in the field of molecular biology (or comparable qualification) and scientific knowledge in the Group's research field, as well as experience and/or training in management
- Leadership ability, team-mindedness, good communication skills, stress resistance and a passion for agricultural research
- Experience managing major national or international research projects and/or managing a core facility
- Extensive professional network in the research field
- Knowledge of two official Swiss languages and a very good command of written and spoken English
Additional information
If this challenge appeals to you, we look forward to receiving your online application (English is not an official Swiss language, please choose German, French or Italian as correspondence language).
For further information, please contact Ms Corinne Jud Khan, Head of the 'Methods Development and Analytics' Competence Division, +41 58 46 67211.
Start date: to be agreed. This is a permanent post.
Reference number: JRQ$540-11839
About us
The 'Methods Development and Analytics' Competence Division has the expertise and infrastructure to develop and validate cutting-edge analytical and molecular-genetic technologies and methods, to validate them and to use them in research projects or enforcement tasks. This includes quality assurance in the production of feed and food, the molecular detection of regulated plant pests and the investigation of the impact of agriculture on the environment.
Agroscope is the Swiss federal centre of excellence for research in the agriculture and food sector. Its researchers work at a number of sites in Switzerland. Headquartered in Bern-Liebefeld (as of 2026: Posieux), Agroscope is attached to the Swiss Federal Department of Economic Affairs, Education and Research EAER.
We offer you a varied job in an interesting work environment as well as thorough training and a modern research infrastructure. Flexible working hours and good employee benefits are additional perks of the job.
The Federal Administration is attentive to the different needs and backgrounds of its employees and promotes diversity. Equal treatment is a top priority.
