MRI Scientific Project Officer; FTE

MRI Scientific Project Officer (0.6 FTE)

Mountain Research Initiative, hosted at Centre for Development and Environment (CDE), University of Bern, Switzerland.
This is a temporary 6-month fixed-term contract to cover for maternity leave.

• Assist the Executive Director with coordination and core implementation tasks relating to MRI activities, including technical tasks associated with GEO Mountains and its work plan as part of the Adaptation at Altitude programme.
• As part of the MRI Coordination Office team, contribute to the organisation and facilitation of events such as workshops, webinars, research meetings, and conferences, including liaison with external experts, partners, and/or other stakeholders, as required.
• Assist the MRI Coordination Office team and members of the MRI Governing Body, MRI Working Groups, network members, external project partners, and stakeholders in promoting the visibility of mountains and mountain research within scientific organizations, networks, and science‑policy fora and platforms.
• Support and collaborate closely with the MRI Communications Manager in developing content for publications, newsletters, website updates, social media, and other outreach channels, as needed.
• Participate in and contribute to MRI Coordination Office team meetings and other interactions with CDE staff as needed.

• A Bachelor degree in Earth sciences (e.g. geography, geomatics), social sciences and humanities, or other related fields, with a demonstrable interest and/or experience in facilitating inter‑ and transdisciplinary research collaborations on mountains.
• At least 2 years’ experience in project management related activities, including planning and/or facilitating scientific events and multi‑stakeholder meetings, with strong analytical and reporting skills, including computer skills.
• Knowledge of and/or experience with EO, data management systems, GIS, and/or data visualisation techniques are an asset.
• Ability to travel and manage multiple tasks and deadlines simultaneously, while adopting a well‑organised, efficient, and independent yet collaborative work style as part of a team.
• Excellent intercultural communication, interpersonal, and presentation skills.
• Spoken and written proficiency in English is required, with knowledge of German and/or French being highly desirable.

The University of Bern offers very attractive and flexible working conditions, with the MRI offering great prospects to develop and enhance a professional profile, build networks, and learn and apply skills to help build and support a vibrant global research community.

The position is a part-time temporary 6-month fixed-term contract to cover for a maternity leave. The position ideally starts no later than 1 September 2026, with a 2-day onboarding training session in mid‑August 2026. The position is based at the MRI Coordination Office in Bern, Switzerland, and the salary is set in accordance with the University of Bern and the employment conditions of the Canton of Bern.

The CDE and MRI value diversity and equal opportunity and welcome all applications from qualified individuals who meet the required criteria.