Description

The University of Bern (UniBE) embraces interconnectedness.

By joining us, you become part of an international community and gain from interdisciplinary collaborations.

Start Date

01.01.2028 or an alternate date upon mutual agreement.

Employment Relationship

Permanent position.

Institution / Workplace

Centre for Development and Environment (CDE)

About Us

The Centre for Development and Environment (CDE) is a prominent institution recognized both nationally and internationally for its contributions to sustainable development. With approximately 100 staff members based in Bern, CDE collaborates closely with partners in Africa, Southeast Asia, Latin America, and beyond, addressing urgent social-ecological challenges across science, policy, civil society, and the private sector. Guided by its current strategy, CDE focuses on five key development objectives: "Ecosystem regeneration for sustainable livelihoods", "Sustainable food systems and land investments", "Just and resource-light economies", "Institutions for sustainability", and "Competencies for sustainability transformations".

Your Profile

Candidates should possess a PhD in a relevant field of sustainable development and demonstrate international recognition in research concerning sustainability transformations. The ideal candidate will have a robust history of managing complex inter- and transdisciplinary research organizations, alongside proven skills in organizational and strategic leadership. This role necessitates the ability to enhance the Centre's profile in sustainability sciences and practice while maintaining and advancing its reputation as a scholarly partner for policy, society, private sector, and administration.

Requirements

Applicants should have extensive experience forming transnational research partnerships, particularly with nations in the Global South, and a solid record of securing third-party funding for both academic research and research-based implementation. A collaborative leadership style, intercultural competence, proficiency in knowledge transfer, exceptional management and communication abilities, as well as the capacity to motivate and guide interdisciplinary and transdisciplinary teams are essential qualities for this challenging position. Familiarity with Swiss and international science and development policy is desirable, and being recognized as a dependable partner for national and international implementation agencies is advantageous. Proficiency in at least one of Switzerland's national languages and familiarity with its academic framework are beneficial. Fluency in English is required, and the professorship will be based at CDE while affiliated with one of the departments or institutes of the Faculty of Science.

Your Benefits

Motivating work environment

Robust research infrastructure and an international network

Acknowledged international reputation

Strategic location in the heart of Bern

Working at the University of Bern

The University of Bern provides not just engaging tasks but also a setting that actively promotes development, diversity, and equal opportunities. Explore what distinguishes us as an employer and how you can evolve with us.

The expected salary for this permanent position will be established in accordance with the personnel law of the Canton of Bern.