Head of Structural Engineering Laboratory

Head of Structural Engineering Laboratory

Empa - Swiss Federal Laboratories for Materials Science and Technology

Dübendorf, Switzerland

Your tasks

As an inspiring and visionary research leader, you will be responsible for the strategic and operational management of the laboratory. Your main tasks will include:

• Defining and implementing the strategic direction of this highly interdisciplinary laboratory to address key scientific and societal challenges.
• Securing fundamental research funding (e.g., from the SNSF or the EU) and applied research projects supported by Innosuisse, federal agencies, and industrial partners.
• Leading and mentoring a diverse team of approximately 30–35 employees, including scientists, group leaders, PhD students, postdoctoral researchers, and technical staff.
• Expanding and cultivating a strong national and international network with academic and industry partners, and actively representing the laboratory at scientific events and in professional committees.
• Promoting knowledge transfer through university-level teaching, high-impact publications, and engagement with industry.

Your profile

You are a collaborative and forward-thinking leader with a passion for excellence in research and development. Your qualifications include:

• A doctoral degree (PhD) in Civil/Structural or Mechanical Engineering or in a closely related field.
• An outstanding research track record and strong expertise in one or more of the laboratory's core areas, such as advanced structural materials, structural health monitoring, strengthening techniques (such as shape memory alloys), or sustainable composite structures (including, e.g., FRP composites, earth/wood composites), structural optimization and design of structures for disassembly and reuse.
• Proven experience in successfully acquiring competitive third-party funding and in leading and mentoring research teams.
• A well-established professional network in academia and/or industry and excellent communication and presentation skills.
• You are a team-oriented leader with high ethical standards and the ability to inspire and motivate colleagues. You approach challenges in an organized and decisive manner, with a strong sense of re-sponsibility.
• The laboratory head is expected to actively support diversity and gender balance by creating an inclusive environment and mentoring emerging talents.
• Excellent proficiency in English is required. A good command of German is a significant advantage, with the expectation of becoming fluent for effective collaboration with our local industry partners.