Hiring: Head of the Scientific Library Lib4RI (m/f/d) 80-100%

Due to the retirement of the current position holder, we are looking for a Head of the Scientific Library Lib4RI (m/f/d) 80 - 100%. You will be employed by Eawag, Dübendorf ZH. Preferred starting date is 1 January 2027 or by arrangement. Application deadline is 31 March 2026.

Lib4RI – Library for the Research Institutes within the ETH Domain: Eawag, Empa, PSI & WSL – is the joint library of the Research Institutes within the ETH Domain. Lib4RI is an innovative service provider for the approximately 4,000 employees of the four institutions. The library focuses on a comprehensive range of electronic media and web-based, customer-friendly services. Both are constantly being developed and adapted to the changing needs of the users.
We offer a varied and challenging job in an international environment, flexible working hours and hybrid working, an open working atmosphere, good opportunities for further training and a modern workplace in Dübendorf. You will be employed by Eawag. 

Key responsibilities

• Strategic and operational leadership of the joint library Lib4RI, including personnel, organizational, and professional responsibility for approximately 20 staff members
• Conceptual responsibility for the strategic development of the library, particularly the proactive design of library services in the context of technological developments and changes in scholarly publishing
• Promotion of an open and collaborative work culture through targeted staff development and active support for change processes
• Responsibility for the library budget, including planning, management and control, as well as ensuring the efficient and cost-effective use of resources
• Advising the management of the four Research Institutes on scientific publishing and developing appropriate policies
• Support of the Lib4RI Steering Committee through expert input, meeting preparation, and annual reporting to the committee
• Implementation and continuous development of internal training programmes in coordination with Lead Campus, - the further education Centre of the four Research Institutes - as well as professional guidance for staff of the research institutes on complex questions and publishing issues
• Active representation of the library in internal and external committees as well as in national and international institutions and associations to strategically position the library and expand professional networks

Qualifications and requirements

• University degree, preferably in a scientific or technical field; PhD desirable. Additional qualification in library and information science or a related area is of advantage
• In-depth knowledge of the academic landscape and of scientific work processes
• Several years of leadership experience in academic libraries, with strong conceptual, organizational, and project management skills
• Advanced information science and IT skills, including Office applications, databases, web technologies and experience with AI tools
• Excellent communication skills in German and English; proficiency in French is an advantage
• High social competence, strong service orientation, self-reliant and business-minded working style, initiative and sense of responsibility
• Open-mindedness and interest in new developments in library and information services, scholarly publishing and user-oriented optimization of library services

At Eawag, we have a working environment in which people with different experiences, strengths, and perspectives can fully contribute and further develop. Here, you can help us advance! We promote genuine participation, exchange, and mutual understanding. We create structures that enable the compatibility of work and other areas of life, such as care work, and continuously make efforts to reduce barriers.

Do you have specific requirements regarding the application process or the position, or do you need additional information? Talk to us about it - we will be happy to support you with possible flexible workplace, working hours, and job design solutions. For further information, about Eawag please visit our website as well as our conditions of employment.

Should you have any questions regarding the position, please contact Dr Christian Stamm. For further information about Lib4RI, please visit the library webpage or contact the current position holder Dr Lothar Nunnenmacher.

The application deadline is 31 March 2026. The complete application should include a letter of motivation (maximum 500 words), a current CV, testimonials and diplomas.

We look forward to receiving your application. Please send it through this webpage, as any other way of applying will not be considered. A click on the button below will take you directly to the application form.

Apply now via Eawag website