Horticultural Extension Research Group Leader

8046 Zürich \| 100-100% Your contribution <br /> • Manage the Horticultural Extension Research Group from a technical and administrative perspective (organization, finance, personnel) and assume general responsibility for leading activities based on practical needs and the scientific excellence of the group • Assume general responsibility and the role of primary contact person for practical questions and research related to open-field horticulture at Agroscope; undertake the development and management of interdisciplinary projects with representatives of interested Agroscope divisions and external partners • Assume responsibility for the acquisition of projects and third-party funds from competitive programs, industry, and other sponsors • Assume responsibility for knowledge exchange with horticultural practice and consultancy, further public relations tasks, and the drafting of specific horticultural expert reports aimed at practice, particularly regarding plant protection • Represent Agroscope within national and international bodies and organizations to network and expand practical expertise in horticulture <br /> What distinguishes you <br /> • PhD in agricultural sciences with specialization in plant production/horticulture (or equivalent training) and proven research experience in these sectors, ideally in practice-oriented projects involving multiple actors • Experience in horticultural practice or similar production sectors • Extensive professional network in the field of plant and vegetable production and solid knowledge of the framework conditions of Swiss plant production • Strong leadership skills, strong team spirit, and convincing communication skills • Excellent knowledge of two official languages and spoken and written English <br /> In summary We are looking for a person with strong managerial skills who combines scientific expertise with concrete agricultural experience and strategically aligns practical research in the field of open-field horticulture with industry priorities, develops concrete practical solutions, answers political questions, and thus contributes to strengthening vegetable cultivation in Switzerland. The presence of a strong team spirit and a proven ability to effectively and equitably manage complex multilingual networks formed by internal and external actors is particularly appreciated. What we offer <br /> • Working for Switzerland We strive for the successful Swiss model and work for the well-being of the population. • Living diversity The implementation of equal opportunities allows us to best express our skills and contemplate different points of view. • Fit at the workplace We provide support and advice to our employees on the topic of physical and mental health. All benefits (https://www.stelle.admin.ch/stelle/it/home/bundesverwaltung/ihre-vorteile-auf-einen-blick.html) <br /> Eating well in a healthy environment Agroscope is the Confederation's competence center for research in the agri-food sector and belongs to the Federal Department of Economic Affairs, Education and Research (EAER). Researchers carry out their activities in various locations in Switzerland, the main one is located in Bern-Liebefeld (Posieux FR from 2026). Complementary information The Horticultural Extension Research Group develops sustainable and resource-efficient cultivation and plant protection strategies to promote ecological and economic production of quality vegetables. It assumes an important connecting function between basic research and horticultural practice. Questions about the workplace Manuel Boss Competence Sector Manager +41 58 46 54140 Questions about the application Cindy Wirth +41 58 46 03903