Head of Scientific Platforms and Core Facilities

The Swiss Tropical and Public Health Institute (Swiss TPH) is a world-leading institute in global health with a particular focus on low- and middle-income countries. Associated with the University of Basel, Swiss TPH combines research, education and services at local, national and international level. Around 1000 staff and students from 96 nations work at Swiss TPH focusing on climate change, environment and health, infectious and non-communicable diseases, societal and cultural context, and health systems and policies.

To complement our Executive Team, we are looking to hire an experienced leader as:

In this senior management role, you will oversee and represent the newly established Department of Platforms, consisting of approximately 30 employees, formed by a merger of 8 internal groups. You will be responsible for the central service platform for internal researchers, ensuring the delivery of high-quality services to support research efforts across the institute (without leading your own research projects). A key part of your role will be to streamline research operations and foster collaboration across departments.

As a permanent member of the Swiss TPH Executive Team you will actively shape the institute’s strategic direction and ensure alignment with Swiss TPH's mission, values and long-term goals.

• Shape and develop the department's strategic and thematic profile as central service platform for internal researchers covering two main areas of focus:
  • Core facilities such as BSL 1, 2 and 3 lab infrastructure (including teaching lab), vector lab, central lab and animal facilities, imaging and sequencing and biobanks
  • Knowledge hubs such as data analytics, data management, Research IT, bioinformatics, health social sciences and projects and grantssupport
• Set departmental goals, steer key initiatives and allocate resources to build a strong, purpose-driven service portfolio that supports research excellence across the institute
• Advance scientific methodologies and drive innovation by integrating new technologies (e.g. AI, remote workflows), and continuously improving platform services
• Oversee departmental operations and finances, monitor platform performance, and regularly evaluate the service portfolio based on strategic, economic, and ethical criteria in line with institutional policies
• Implement and evolve governance structures for the Platforms department, ensuring alignment with Swiss TPH’s mission and the needs of its local, national, and international research activities
• Collaborate closely with the Director, Executive Team, and other departments to support Swiss TPH’s pillars of research, education, and services; contribute to institutional working groups and strategic planning processes
• Foster and maintain strategic partnerships with key national and international stakeholders, including University of Basel, funders, sponsors, academic institutions, industrial partners, multilateral organisations, and Swiss TPH partner institutions in countries outside of Switzerland; represent the department at scientific conferences and professional meetings

• PhD or equivalent with strong subject-matter expertise in one or more areas of public or global health, life sciences, or a related discipline
• At least 10 years of management experience, with a people-centered, inclusive leadership style and a strong ability to delegate and empower employees throughout their professional development, to promote transparent communication, and foster a culture of mutual trust and respect
• Proven experience in leading and managing organizational change
• A collaborative, strategic thinker with demonstrated success in strategic, operational and financial planning
• Highly structured, independent and efficient work style, with goal-driven and solution-oriented decision-making skills, pragmatic and resilient under pressure
• Excellent command of English (written and verbal), advanced German skills, French skills are an asset

• Purpose-driven management role in an internationally renowned global health institute
• Rewarding…