Head of Biomedical Data Science

100%, Zurich, fixed-term

The Swiss Data Science Center (SDSC ) is a joint initiative between EPFL, ETH Zurich and PSI.

Its mission is to accelerate the adoption of data science and machine learning techniques within the ETH Domain academic disciplines, the Swiss academic community at large, and the industrial sector. In particular, it addresses the gap between those who create data, those who develop data analytics and
systems, and those who could potentially extract value from it.

The centre comprises a multi-disciplinary team of data and computer scientists, and experts in select domains with offices in Zürich, Lausanne, and Villigen.

Project background

The role of the Head of Biomedical Data Science is multifaceted, encompassing a wide range of responsibilities and skills. This individual is instrumental in bringing critical knowledge in Health and Biomedical data management to the SDSC. They have strong experience in managing and integrating health and biomedical data from various sources, and in initiating and coordinating multi-partner projects within the Health and Biomedical sciences sector.

The Head of Biomedical Data Science leads a team supporting the SDSC's activities in these areas of expertise and is pivotal in driving the development of domain-specific research services at the SDSC. Their responsibilities also include leading and coordinating strategic initiatives in Health and Biomedical at the SDSC. They play a key role in actively supporting and expanding the SDSC's network in Health and Biomedical sciences, while strategically contributing to the direction in these fields.

The position demands excellent collaboration and communication skills, essential for managing diverse stakeholder relationships and fostering an environment of innovative research.

Job description

Main duties and responsibilities include:

• Team Management and Recruitment: The position entails recruiting, managing, and leading a medium-sized team of interdisciplinary experts. This team, possibly distributed across multiple locations, is dedicated to developing software components and services for managing and integrating various Health and Biomedical data sources
• Development and Leadership: This role involves close collaboration with various SDSC core services to enhance and expand health and biomedical capabilities
• Health and Biomedical Representation: Acting as the primary liaison for the Health and Biomedical domain within SDSC, the role involves driving the evolution of domain-specific services and integrating them into SDSC's core offerings
• Community Engagement and Collaboration: The Head is responsible for elevating SDSC's presence in the Health and Biomedical sphere, fostering new partnerships, and ensuring access to cutting-edge Data Science and AI solutions tailored for the community. * Strategic Support and Representation: Supporting SDSC leadership in strategizing and conveying these plans to both internal and external stakeholders is a crucial aspect of this role, emphasizing and promoting the importance of Health and Biomedical data platforms and the integration of heterogeneous Health and Biomedical data
• Strategic Support and Representation: Supporting SDSC leadership in strategizing and conveying these
  plans to both internal and external stakeholders is a crucial aspect of this role, emphasizing and promoting
  the importance of Health and Biomedical data platforms and the integration of heterogeneous Health and
  Biomedical data.

Your profile

The ideal candidate has:

• Advanced degree (Ph.D. preferred) in Health & Biomedical Sciences, Bioinformatics, Computer Science, or a related field
• Extensive experience in Health & Biomedical data science, with a proven track record in managing large-scale data projects and teams
• Demonstrated ability to lead and manage a diverse, interdisciplinary team, with experience in distributed and matrix team management. - Strong background in bioinformatics  or data science, specifically applied to Health and Biomedical data
• Deep understanding of the Health and Biomedical field, including familiarity with multi-omics data, electronic health records and clinical research
• Experience in building collaborations and partnerships within the Swiss Health and Biomedical community
• Excellent communication and presentation skills, capable of effectively engaging with both technical and non-technical stakeholders
• Proven ability in strategic planning and execution, particularly in aligning data-driven projects with broader organizational goals
• Aptitude for innovation and a problem-solving mindset, with the ability to navigate complex challenges in data integration and analysis

With the social and leadership competencies , ETH Zurich has developed a common understanding for a shared work culture. Kindly try to incorporate these six competencies into your recruitment.

Your workplace

Your workplace

We offer

The position is based in Zurich, with frequent travelling required between the different SDSC offices (Zurich, Lausanne and Villigen) and other locations in Switzerland. 

We offer a stimulating, cross-disciplinary environment in a world-class research center that is part of two leading universities.

Our team of over 100 hails from more than 25 countries. In this dynamic position, you will make full use of your communications skills and creativity. You will work in a data science setting alongside leading domain and computer science experts from the ETH domain as well as industry.

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We value diversity

In line with

our values

, ETH Zurich encourages an inclusive culture. We promote equality of opportunity, value diversity and nurture a working and learning environment in which the rights and dignity of all our staff and students are respected. Visit our

Equal Opportunities and Diversity website

to find out how we ensure a fair and open environment that allows everyone to grow and flourish.

Curious? So are we.

We look forward to receiving your online application with the following documents:

• Motivation Letter
• CV
• Reference letters

Please note that we exclusively accept applications submitted through our online application portal. Applications via email or postal services will not be considered.

Further information about Swiss Data Science Center can be found on our website .

Questions regarding the position should be directed to [email protected]  (no applications).

For recruitment services the GTC of ETH Zurich apply.

About ETH Zürich

ETH Zurich is one of the world’s leading universities specialising in science and technology. We are renowned for our excellent education, cutting-edge fundamental research and direct transfer of new knowledge into society. Over 30,000 people from more than 120 countries find our university to be a place that promotes independent thinking and an environment that inspires excellence. Located in the heart of Europe, yet forging connections all over the world, we work together to develop solutions for the global challenges of today and tomorrow.