Research manager for plant facilities and microscopy

Organisation/Company:
University of Basel
Research Field:
Biological sciences – Botany, Environmental science – Other
Job Profile:
Recognised Researcher (R2) – Final date to receive applications 7 Feb 2026 - 22:59 (UTC)
Country:
Switzerland – Type of

Contract:

Temporary – Status:
Full-time
No EU funding – Not related to Research Infrastructure

The research group Plant Ecology and Evolution at the Department of Environmental Sciences at the University of Basel in Switzerland is looking for a research manager for our plant growth facilities and microscopes. The group focuses on plant adaptation to climate change, plant responses to environmental stress, distribution limits, small population size, genetic load, and genetic conflicts.

The successful candidate will be responsible for the technical management of indoor and outdoor plant growth facilities and for introducing students and group members to plant cross‑breeding, plant cultivation, and measurement of image‑based phenotypic characteristics in quantitative genetics settings. They will manage group‑owned microscopes with camera systems and give introductory training on their use. In addition, they are expected to collaborate closely with group members in project design, data collection and analysis and to participate in the group’s team‑teaching activities.

Applicants should hold an MSc degree in plant sciences, evolutionary biology, environmental science, or related fields. The ideal candidate is motivated, reliable, solution‑oriented, and highly interested in contributing to research. Strong organisational skills, teamwork ability, and a commitment to a collegial and inclusive workplace are essential.

Good spoken English is required; knowledge of German is desirable. Candidates should have practical experience in managing plant growth facilities, plant cultivation, microscopy, experimental design, statistical analysis, and high‑throughput image analysis, and must hold a valid driver’s licence.

A position at the intersection of technology, plant cultivation and research with varied work and the possibility of becoming permanent. You will join a supportive and collaborative working environment in a dynamic research group in the international and interdisciplinary Department of Environmental Sciences. Internationally competitive salaries and social benefits are provided according to the rules of the University of Basel. Basel is a mid‑sized Swiss city, well connected and offering a broad range of cultural and recreational activities.

Please upload your application via our online platform. It should include:

• Motivation letter (max. 2 pages)
• CV
• Copies of relevant degrees
• Names and contact details of three references, including your relation to them

Only online applications submitted through the recruiting platform will be considered. Review of applications will begin on February 15 but the position remains open until filled.

For specific questions please contact Prof. Dr. Yvonne Willi (yvonne.willi).