Head of the Center for Microscopy and Image Analysis

Center for Microscopy and Image Analysis (ZMB)

Head of the Center for Microscopy and Image Analysis (Core Facility) 100 %

Start of employment Fall 2026, permanent employment

The Center for Microscopy and Image Analysis (ZMB) is a nationally and internationally recognized Core Facility at the University of Zurich (UZH), providing access to state-of-the-art light and electron microscopy. With a team of over 15 highly qualified staff members, the ZMB supports and collaborates with more than 200 research groups across the University, offering advanced expertise, customized support, and training in cutting-edge imaging technologies.

As one of Europe's leading research universities with an international reputation for excellence, UZH provides an outstanding environment for scientific innovation, interdisciplinary exchange, and collaboration

Your responsibilities

The Head of the ZMB will play a key role in shaping the future of microscopic imaging at UZH. She or he will be responsible for leading and continuously advancing all activities of the Core Facility within the framework set by the ZMB Steering Committee, which consists of user representatives.

Key duties and responsibilities:

• Drive the development and enhancement of the facility's services, methodologies, protocols, and instrumentation portfolio - including integration of emerging technologies and prototype developments into sustainable, high-performance user services
• Advance image analysis by designing and implementing innovative IT and data management strategies in collaboration with the UZH BioVisionCenter
• Active engagement in national and international microscopy networks and initiatives
• Lead and support staff at all levels, including recruitment, performance planning, and structured career development
• Design and promote training programs for facility users and strengthen the user community network
• Develop and maintain strong scientific and commercial collaborations
• Shape long-term strategies for the facility in close cooperation with the Steering Committee
• Oversee administrative and financial operations and report regularly to the Steering Committee

Your profile

We are seeking a dynamic and innovative leader person with:

• An academic education (PhD or equivalent) in the life-sciences or a related discipline
• An exceptional expertise in advanced microscopic techniques (light- and electron- microscopy)
• A strong record of scientific and/or technological achievements
• Proven leadership and facility management skills, including the ability to lead a diverse team and to foster collaborations across disciplines
• A clear service orientation, with the commitment to providing high-quality support to a broad user community
• A vision for the future development of microscopy and image analysis in life sciences and beyond

UZH is an equal opportunity employer and explicitly encourages applications from qualified women.

Information on your application

Please submit your application (motivation letter, curriculum vitae, certificates) in a single PDF file until December 15, 2025.

What we offer

Work-Life Balance

• Flexible working models (such as part-time positions, mobile working, job-sharing)
• Childcare at the kihz foundation of UZH and ETH

Learning and Development

• Wide range of continuing education courses of UZH and the Canton of Zurich
• Language Center run jointly with ETH Zurich

Food

• Food and drinks at reduced prices in the UZH cafeterias
• Lunch-Check-card with UZH contribution

Healthcare

• Special conditions on the Academic Sports Association ASVZ
• Free seasonal flu vaccinations
• Rest and relaxation at the quiet room in the university tower

Discounts

• Private traffic: Carsharing, rent a vehicle, parking space
• Digitalization: Hardware, software, mobile phone subscriptions
• Special conditions on hotel reservations

Conditions of Employment

• Policies of the UZH
• Most UZH staff are employed according to public law

International Services

• Support for people from outside Switzerland

Campuses

• Campuses Zurich City, Zurich Irchel, Oerlikon and Schlieren
• Sites Zurich West, Old Botanical Garden, Botanical Garden and Lengg

Location
Center for Microscopy and Image Analysis (ZMB)

Winterthurerstrasse 190, 8057 Zürich, Switzerland

Further information
Questions about the job

Prof. Johannes Loffing

President of the Steering Committee

Working at UZH

The University of Zurich, Switzerland's largest university, offers a range of attractive positions in various subject areas and professional fields. With around 10,000 employees and currently 12 professional apprenticeship streams the University offers an inspiring working environment on cutting-edge research and top-class education. Put your talent and skills to work with us. Find out more about UZH as an employer

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