The Federal Institute of Technology Lausanne (EPFL), Switzerland, stands for excellence in education, in pioneering fundamental and applied research and in the application of scientific results for the benefit of society. Like ETH Zurich and the four federal research institutes PSI, WSL, Empa and Eawag, EPFL is part of the ETH Domain. The ETH Board, the strategic management and supervisory body of the ETH Domain, is advertising the position of
President of the Federal Institute of Technology Lausanne (EPFL)
to succeed the current president, who will retire by the end of 2024. In accordance with its mandate, the ETH Board is responsible for proposing a candidate for this position to the Swiss Federal Council.
EPFL is one of the top-ranked universities worldwide in the fields of natural sciences and engineering. Around 17,000 people study, work or carry out research at EPFL. Outstanding working conditions, state-of-the-art infrastructure, an entrepreneurial atmosphere and an attractive environment provide an ideal setting for creative personalities.
Requirements
Your track record in the natural sciences or in engineering is internationally recognised. As an experienced leader in an academic or research organisation, you are able to develop, define and give strategic direction to EPFL that will ensure its sustainable development and promote a positive culture within the institution. You are able to identify and foster outstanding potentials and visionary ideas, and set priorities on scientific, technological, sustainability-related and societal issues. Moreover, you have proven participative management skills and fundraising abilities. You are well networked both within and outside of the scientific community and are prepared to develop EPFL’s future and to cooperate on the development of the entire ETH Domain.
You have excellent social and negotiation skills, an inspiring presence and the ability to bring people together, resolve conflicts and build trust. Furthermore, you are committed to promoting respect and diversity as well as to creating an inclusive work environment.
You understand Switzerland’s political structures, legislative processes and cultural diversity. Moreover, you are interested in cooperating with other Swiss academic institutions and with industry. You have a proven ability to communicate, supported by an excellent command of French and English and preferably also a working knowledge of German.
Ideally you are willing to hold office for at least two terms (i.e. eight years) and could assume this position at the beginning of 2025.
Applications
Please send your complete application to PresidenceEPFL@spencerstuart.com by 3 October 2023. Spencer Stuart & Associates is assisting the ETH Board in preparing the selection process. The President of the ETH Board, Prof. Michael O. Hengartner, will be pleased to provide additional information (michael.hengartner@ethrat.ch, +41 58 856 86 01).
We strongly encourage women and those from underrepresented groups to apply.
All applications will be treated in strict confidence. Your data will be used only in connection with your application and in accordance with Swiss data protection law. By submitting your application, you consent to your data being processed for this purpose and being exchanged with the above-mentioned company.
