Head of Platforms
80-100%
The Swiss Tropical and Public Health Institute (Swiss TPH) is a world-leading institute in global health with a particular focus on low- and middle-income countries. Associated with the University of Basel, Swiss TPH combines research, education and services at local, national and international level. Around 1000 staff and students from 96 nations work at Swiss TPH focusing on climate change, environment and health, infectious and non-communicable diseases, societal and cultural context, and health systems and policies.
To complement our Executive Team, we are looking to hire an experienced leader as:
Head of Platforms (80-100%)
In this senior management role, you will oversee and represent the newly established Department of Platforms, consisting of approximately 30 employees, formed by a merger of 8 internal groups. You will be responsible for the central service platform for internal researchers, ensuring the delivery of high-quality services to support research efforts across the institute (without leading your own research projects). A key part of your role will be to streamline research operations and foster collaboration across departments.
As a permanent member of the Swiss TPH Executive Team you will actively shape the institute's strategic direction and ensure alignment with Swiss TPH's mission, values and long-term goals.
Your responsibilities
- Shape and develop the department's strategic and thematic profile as central service platform for internal researchers covering two main areas of focus:
Knowledge hubs such as data analytics, data management, Research IT, bioinformatics, health social sciences and projects and grants support
Core facilities such as BSL 1, 2 and 3 lab infrastructure (including teaching lab), vector lab, central lab and animal facilities, imaging and sequencing and biobanks
- Set departmental goals, steer key initiatives and allocate resources to build a strong, purpose-driven service portfolio that supports research excellence across the institute
- Advance scientific methodologies and drive innovation by integrating new technologies (e.g. AI, remote workflows), and continuously improving platform services
- Oversee departmental operations and finances, monitor platform performance, and regularly evaluate the service portfolio based on strategic, economic, and ethical criteria in line with institutional policies
- Implement and evolve governance structures for the Platforms department, ensuring alignment with Swiss TPH's mission and the needs of its local, national, and international research activities
- Collaborate closely with the Director, Executive Team, and other departments to support Swiss TPH's pillars of research, education, and services; contribute to institutional working groups and strategic planning processes
- Foster and maintain strategic partnerships with key national and international stakeholders, including University of Basel, funders, sponsors, academic institutions, industrial partners, multilateral organisations, and Swiss TPH partner institutions in countries outside of Switzerland; represent the department at scientific conferences and professional meetings
Your experiences and skills:
- PhD or equivalent with strong subject-matter expertise in one or more areas of public or global health, life sciences, or a related discipline
- At least 10 years of management experience, with a people-centered, inclusive leadership style and a strong ability to delegate and empower employees throughout their professional development, to promote transparent communication, and foster a culture of mutual trust and respect
- Proven experience in leading and managing organizational change
- A collaborative, strategic thinker with demonstrated success in strategic, operational and financial planning
- Highly structured, independent and efficient work style, with goal-driven and solution-oriented decision-making skills, pragmatic and resilient under pressure
- Excellent command of English (written and verbal), advanced German skills, French skills are an asset
What we offer:
- Purpose-driven management role in an internationally renowned global health institute
- Rewarding position in a supportive, collegial, and multicultural work environment
- State-of-the-art workplace in our new headquarters in Allschwil, located in a bustling life sciences and biotech cluster
- Opportunities for collaboration with people across disciplines and career levels
- Professional and personal development opportunities
- Commitment to promoting gender equality and ensuring equal professional opportunities for women and men
- Flexible working conditions, including supportive work-from-home options and the freedom to organize your schedule in a way that works best for you
Job conditions:
- Start Date: 1 March 2026 or upon earliest availability
- Duration: unlimited contract
- Percentage: 80-100%
- Location: Allschwil in close proximity to Basel, Switzerland
- Travel required: yes, on a regular basis both in Switzerland and abroad
- Internal job title: Head of Department
Please submit your application online.
- CV
- Motivational letter including names and contact information (email or phone number) of 1 – 2 references
- Reference letters and diploma
Swiss TPH is committed to fostering an inclusive and diverse workplace that values and respects differences across gender, race, ethnicity, disability, sexual orientation, and socio-economic background. We believe that diversity strengthens our work, and we are dedicated to providing equal opportunities for all.
Please note that we can only accept applications via our online recruiting tool. As long as the position is online on our company website, we are open to new applications. Applications via e-mail or external recruiter/agency will not be considered.
Join us in improving people's health and well-being worldwide – we look forward to receiving your application.
Contact:
Sonja Bühler, Lead Recruiting Partner, +41 (0)61 284 8778.
