Junior Administrative Assistant, Centre for Origin and Prevalence of Life (COPL)

Updated: about 2 months ago
Job Type: Permanent

80%-100%, Zurich, fixed-term

The ETH Centre for Origin and Prevalence of Life (COPL) is an innovative new collaboration between seven ETHZ departments to comprehensively address the big questions of life’s origins and ubiquity. It includes a dedicated gathering place to meet up and hold scientific discussions in a casual environment, hot desks, temporary office space, for students and faculty located at nearby campuses as well as for visiting scientists.  

The Mission of the Centre is to establish an ambitious and innovative collaboration and teaching between researchers from different disciplines to comprehensively address the fundamental questions about life and advance our understanding of the processes that led to the emergence of life. It is our ambition to bringing together researchers from different disciplines who share a common scientific vision.


Project background

We are expanding our small team and look for a highly motivated colleague ideally as per May 1, 2024, or agreement. 


Job description

In this function your acitivities will be in the fields of administrative support of Assistant Professors and their teams, communication on Social Media and/or organisation of events. You will be in charge of a wide range of tasks such as the following ones:

  • Manage outreach activities and content maintenance of the Centre's webpage
  • Compiling newsletters and write short articles in community networks through various communication channels
  • Assistance in the organisation of events, e.g. scientific symposiums, lunch sessions, coffee breaks, and thereby act as the key contact person for guest services, caterers, campus services and others
  • General administrative and office management tasks related to the day-to-day life of research groups
  • Support in different academic networking activities of the Centre and/or the research groups
  • Liaise with key people and stakeholders in other departments of ETH Zurich and EPFL Lausanne

The position is offered initially for one year with the option of a renewal subject to the successful development of the Centre.


Your profile

The successful candidate is expected to possess excellent oral and written communication in German and English, strong interpersonal skills to communicate with people on all levels of the organisation, as well as with the public. Skilled and experienced in applying Social Media tools and using different communication channels.

The ideal person is holding a commercial diploma, Matura or Handelsmittelschuldiploma and has gained preferably first working experience in a lively business environment. Open minded teamplayer with an interest in natural sciences, especially those connected to the origins of life research.



Your workplace

Your workplace

We offer
  • An attractive, versatile position at one of the most renowned Universities - ideal for young professionals
  • You interact with a very bright set of creative minds from a wide range of cultures and backgrounds
  • Inviting working atmosphere, with flexibility and opportunities to discover new topics and learn new skills
  • Broaden your horizons with exposure to an extensive network of partners, both nationally and internationally
  • Vaste variety of training opportunities
  • One-year contract with the option of renewal

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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
  • Diplomas
  • Work certificates

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 the Centre for Origin and Prevalence of Life can be found on our website Research – Centre for Origin and Prevalence of Life | ETH Zurich . Questions regarding the position should be directed to Mrs Corinna Marchand, Tel. +41 44 632 42 21, [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.



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