Programme Manager – Thematic Research

Thousands of researchers receive funding from the SNSF to study nature, technology and society. Their findings provide an important foundation for progress and well-being. Our task is to select the best ideas at national level based on a competitive process. We are committed to promoting Switzerland as a top-tier research location and to communicating the value of research for society. Join our team!

To support our daily mission, we are looking for a Programme Manager(80-100%) at our headquarters in Bern. In the Thematic Research division, you will be ensuring excellent programme delivery and participating in the development of strategic topics.

• You advise and collaborate with SNSF bodies (Research Council and Secretariat), SOR4D steering structures and scientific review panels.
• You plan, organise and follow up governance meetings; you prepare decision documents, and ensure implementation of decisions.
• You coordinate scientific evaluation processes and project follow-up across the full programme lifecycle; you advise applicants and grantees and take part in site visits in Switzerland and abroad.
• You develop concepts throughout all phases of the programme (calls, processes, guidance, reporting and synthesis work) and for other strategic topics.
• You lead programme‑level communication: you implement the communication strategy, draft content and manage web publishing for SOR4D and associated platforms (e.g., k4d).
• You design and deliver events such as symposia, conferences, workshops and hearings, and you support community building and knowledge utilisation.
• You coordinate collaboration with SDC, including high‑level meetings, preparation, minutes and follow‑up.
• You contribute to the development of collaborations involving partnerships with other institutions and the federal government.
• You manage external mandates and coordinate internal programme colleagues and partners in line with governance requirements.
• You build and maintain relationships with national and international funding bodies and programmes with similar thematic orientations.

• You have a university degree (PhD preferred), ideally complemented by research experience in international teams.
• You bring knowledge of development cooperation and/or research experience in low‑ and middle‑income countries.
• You have a good understanding of the Swiss research, education and innovation (ERI) ecosystem and the federal administration.
• You are strongly interested in transdisciplinary, solution‑ and application‑oriented research.
• You have proven experience in research/programme management and knowledge management.
• You have strong analytical and synthesising skills; you are flexible, highly organised and a talented coordinator.
• You are fluent in English; you speak very good German or French and have a good command of the other language.
• You are a team‑oriented person with excellent communication and writing skills.

An exciting working environment at the interface of research, politics and international relations. The SNSF 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.

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.