Legal Counsel in the field of human research (m/f/d)

• 03 August 2026 • 60% • Indefinite duration • Rämistrasse 101, 8006 Zürich • Log in to see the salary estimate from jobup.ch Legal Counsel in the field of human research (h/f/d) # ETH Zurich is one of the most renowned technical and scientific universities in the world. Within the Vice-Presidency for Knowledge Transfer and Economic Relations, the research contracts group supports researchers in establishing their projects with national and international partners on a secure legal basis. To strengthen our team, we are looking for a solution-oriented person as a legal counsel, starting immediately or by arrangement. Project context ## Your role at the interface between research and law In this position, you are the central point of contact for legal questions and contracts in the field of human research. You advise researchers as well as the central services of ETH Zurich and accompany projects subject to the Human Research Act (HRA). You regularly work on technology-oriented projects, particularly in connection with digital health solutions, data infrastructures, or medical products. Your activity includes the drafting, reviewing, and autonomous negotiation of contracts with national and international partners, as well as the legal support of complex issues related to the projects. Job description ## • Drafting, reviewing, and negotiating contracts for human research projects with national and international partners (e.g., clinical studies, research cooperations, transfer of data and material). • Advising and supporting researchers on legal and regulatory issues in the field of human research (notably according to the HRA). • Close collaboration with central interfaces, in particular the legal service as well as the advisory group on the Human Research Act, to ensure consistent legal solutions. • Coordination with internal and external stakeholders, including researchers and hospitals. • Participation in the development and standardization of processes for human research projects within ETH Zurich, with an emphasis on efficient and legally secure procedures. • Design and implementation of information events and training for researchers on the legal aspects of research contracts and human research projects. • Active contribution to the structuring of the human research field within the research contracts group. Profile ## We are looking for an inclusive personality capable of quickly understanding complex subjects and who appreciates close collaboration in a diverse environment. • Education: You hold a Swiss university degree in law. • Experience: You possess solid experience in the field of human research and knowledge in projects at the interface between science and application. Experience in the fields of medical devices, pharmacy, or software-based health solutions, as well as in the legal or operational support of corresponding research projects in an academic or industrial environment, is an asset. • Skills: You have excellent analytical and conceptual skills, a sense of negotiation and persuasion, as well as the ability to quickly familiarize yourself with new subjects and flexibly manage complex issues. Great speed of comprehension and a high degree of personal responsibility characterize you as much as an efficient and precise way of working. • Languages: You communicate and negotiate with ease in German and English (oral and written). Knowledge of French is an advantage. • Mindset: You work in an efficient, precise, and solution-oriented manner and possess a strong team spirit as well as high social competence. You have the necessary sense in the field of third-party funds of a university to know when researchers must be supported in a quick and pragmatic manner. By formulating clear and unambiguous contractual rules, you lay the foundation for the subsequent practical implementation of research results. You are capable of autonomously organizing a heterogeneous business portfolio and processing them within the deadlines. By working quickly, in a solution-oriented manner, and with discernment, you enable researchers to realize their projects of excellence. If you also have an interest in scientific, technical, and economic contexts and wish to evolve in the exciting environment of cutting-edge research, you meet the ideal conditions. Become a member of ETH Zurich, which not only supports your professional development but also actively contributes to positive changes in society. We are committed to a sustainable and climate-neutral university. We offer ##   • A large experienced team of jurists; • Many benefits, such as public transport subscriptions and carpooling, a wide range of sports from ASVZ, childcare as well as attractive pension benefits; • Flexible work and the possibility of teleworking. Working, teaching and researching at ETH Zurich Diversity and sustainability are close to our hearts ## In accordance with our values, ETH Zurich supports an inclusive culture. We promote equal opportunities, value diversity, and maintain a work and learning environment where the rights and dignity of all employees and students are respected. On our website about equality