Project manager – Microscopy; MIC operations

UniBE is multifaceted. With us, you can expect a broad range of topics and a great deal of creative freedom.

Start Date: 15.07.2026 or by arrangement

Employment Relationship: Fixed‑term for two years

Institution / Workplace: Microscopy Imaging Center (MIC)

The Microscopy Imaging Center (MIC) is a university core facility supporting more than 500 researchers across various institutes at the three life science faculties of the UniBE. The MIC’s task is to coordinate access to state‑of‑the‑art in vitro and in vivo light‑microscopy technologies, advanced electron microscopy training in microscopy and image analysis, and collaborative project support. The project manager for MIC operations advances a coordinated node‑based structure, and strengthens collaboration among microscopy users and instrument administrators across the MIC network.

The position bridges scientific expertise with operational and administrative implementation. Working closely with the MIC team, the successful candidate will take an active role in developing sustainable structures to ensure optimal use of equipment and infrastructure across the MIC.

• Maintain and enhance the MIC instrument inventory (openiris.io, MIC website).
• Develop and structure a comprehensive instrument application catalogue.
• Strengthen MIC’s digital presence (website, social media, visibility initiatives).
• Analyze and optimize user access workflows, including new access models (e.g. project‑based).
• Document and standardize onboarding procedures across instrument locations.
• Ensure clear and consistent communication of access policies for internal and external users.
• Monitor and analyze instrument usage data to improve utilization and efficiency.
• Identify training needs and support effective instrument use.
• Support institutes with reporting, invoicing practices, and budget planning related to instruments.
• Coordinate administrator and node working groups; foster collaboration across the MIC network.

• Strong background in microscopy (techniques, instrumentation and applications).
• Degree in life sciences, engineering, or a related field.
• Experience in research infrastructure coordination, core facility management or project management.
• Excellent organizational and communication skills, with a collaborative and proactive approach.
• Strong interest in structured documentation and process optimization.
• Familiarity with facility management systems (e.g. openiris.io) is an advantage.
• Fluency in German and English.

The opportunity to contribute to the development of a modern, coordinated research infrastructure; a collaborative environment and ambitious team; interdisciplinary collaboration; meaningful work and fair compensation.

Please submit your application to Jennifer Sprenger (jennifer.sprenger2) until June 11, 2026, as one single PDF file, including:

• Motivation letter
• Summary of your major achievements in microscopy techniques and experiences in supporting microscopists
• Curriculum vitae, including a publication list
• Contact details of two referees

Questions about the position? Ruth Lyck (ruth.lyck)

Questions about the application? Jennifer Sprenger (jennifer.sprenger2)

The University of Bern actively promotes development, diversity, and equal opportunities.