Open Position as Director of Policy and External Affairs (100%, Zurich, fixed-term)

We are seeking a Director of Policy and External Affairs to join Crowther Lab’s Operations Group to guide and manage biodiversity protection and climate policy initiatives arising from Crowther Lab’s scientific research. Crowther Lab is based at ETH Zurich and seeks to strengthen the scientific foundation for the protection and restoration of nature and address climate change. Crowther Lab is a scientific advisor to the World Economic Forum’s 1t.org and the UN Decade on Ecosystem Restoration.

Project background

The mission of Crowther Lab’s Operations Group is to build a bridge between the Lab’s scientific research and conservation and restoration efforts on the ground. For example, through the creation, in 2020, of Restor – a global data platform enabling and accelerating ecological restoration around the world, with a current network of over 120,000 project sites.

Job description

The Director of Policy & External Affairs will be responsible for connecting with a global network of nature related / policy initiatives to communicate the latest biodiversity science and understand the scientific challenges faced by NGOs and policy makers, including:

  • Policy Monitoring – tracking relevant policy issues and initiatives at international, national, and sub-national levels and advising Lab personnel on issues and initiatives that could potentially be enhanced by the Lab’s scientific research.
  • Communications Management – supporting Lab personnel in articulating applicable policy priorities in concert with scientific findings and other technical developments, including drafting reports, articles, speeches, and other communications materials.
  • Stakeholder Engagement – participating in relevant policy workshops, meetings, and forums. Building relationships with policy leaders, researchers, media and other stakeholders to create opportunities to share the Lab’s scientific work in compelling and impactful ways.
Your profile

We look for a highly motivated candidate with a strong background in international environmental law and policy. In addition, the role requires:

  • 5-7 years’ experience working at the interface of nature / climate policy, research and / or environmental governance.
  • Strong critical thinking and analytical skills to solve problems and best convey the Lab’s scientific work in policy-relevant terms.
  • A passion for climate science and ecology and a strong grasp of their role within global conservation and restoration efforts.
  • An ability to work with specialists, and act as a spokesperson, to communicate complex concepts in a straightforward, compelling, and impactful way.
  • Excellent oral and written skills in English are required. One or more Swiss national languages a bonus, but not required. 
  • You should have a track record of publishing written articles / thought leadership content.
  • A Bachelor’s Degree in a related field, or equivalent combination of education, training, and experience.
Interested?

We look forward to receiving your online application including a CV and a one-page statement explaining why you are interested in this position by 5 August 2022. Please note that we exclusively accept applications submitted through the online application portal of ETH Zurich. Late applications or applications submitted by email or post will not be considered.

For any questions about the position, please contact our Group Manager Emily Clark at [email protected].

ETH Zurich is an equal opportunity and family friendly employer. All candidates will be evaluated based on their merits and qualifications, without regard to gender, sexual orientation, race, age, religion, disability etc. Candidates from underrepresented and traditionally disadvantaged backgrounds are particularly encouraged to apply.