Senior AI Engagement Lead

The University of Zurich seeks a Senior AI Engagement Lead for a part-time role to represent UZH.ai in the Swiss and European AI ecosystem, focusing on policy, funding, and strategic partnerships.

This part-time position serves as a high-credibility external representative for UZH.ai within the broader Swiss and European AI landscape. The role operates at the intersection of academia, startups, industry, and policy-making, aiming to strengthen the university's strategic presence and collaborations in these areas.

Responsibilities

• Serve as a trusted external voice for UZH.ai across the Swiss and European AI landscape.
• Track and update the university on key AI policy developments, funding opportunities, and major infrastructure projects.
• Represent UZH at significant AI policy events, working groups, and ecosystem forums.
• Lead the preparation and execution of UZH's participation in major events like the Global AI Summit 2027.
• Identify and manage UZH's involvement in large AI consortia and infrastructure initiatives.
• Spearhead the preparation and submission of 2–3 priority external funding applications annually.
• Deliver concise, structured, and timely briefings to the Digital Strategy Board and UZH leadership.
• Enhance UZH.ai's standing in national and international AI collaborations.

Requirements

• Master's degree or PhD, preferably from UZH or another Swiss institution, in a relevant discipline.
• Experience founding and scaling a tech or AI startup with a successful exit, OR 10–15 years in senior roles in AI policy, ecosystem development, strategic stakeholder engagement, or research/innovation funding.
• Extensive network within Swiss and/or European AI policy, government, research funding, and startup/innovation sectors.
• Comprehensive knowledge of how government policies, regulations, and funding mechanisms impact startup and scale-up success.
• Demonstrated ability to navigate politically sensitive, multi-stakeholder environments.
• Confident independent voice capable of representing UZH in senior forums.
• Strategic and structured approach to work.

Nice to have

• Familiarity with Swiss higher education and research funding structures.

What the company offers

• Access to a wide range of attractive employee benefits.

About the company

The University of Zurich stands as Switzerland's largest university, employing approximately 10,000 individuals. It provides an inspiring working environment grounded in cutting-edge research and top-class education.

• Inspiring working environment based on cutting-edge research and top-class education.