MRI Scientific Project Officer
Start Date
The position ideally starts no later than 1 September 2026, with a 2-day onboarding training session in mid-August 2026.
Employment Relationship
60%, fixed-term until 28 February 2027
Institution / Workplace
Mountain Research Initiative (MRI) hosted at the Centre for Development and Environment (CDE)
Bern
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For yourself and for society.
Background
Since 2001, the Mountain Research Initiative (MRI) has served as a global research coordination network that connects researchers and promotes integrated global change research in mountain regions worldwide. The MRI Coordination Office, hosted at the Centre for Development and Environment (CDE) at the University of Bern, Switzerland, coordinates this network through knowledge creation-enabling activities such as syntheses workshops, working groups, events, and platforms that bring researchers and stakeholders from diverse disciplines, practice, and backgrounds together. The Global Network for Observations and Information in Mountain Environments (GEO Mountains), a Work Programme Initiative of the Group on Earth Observations (GEO) and co-led by the MRI as a Flagship Activity, facilitates the discoverability and access to data and information relevant for monitoring global change in mountains. The network links to and leverages the relevant work of MRI Working Groups, plus multiple stakeholders and experts from across the EO community and research institutions, as well as projects and networks of mountain research and observatories, worldwide. For more information, please visit www.mountainresearchinitiative.org.To continue fulfilling our mission, and support the work of the MRI and GEO Mountains, we are seeking a dynamic and motivated “all-rounder” to join the MRI Coordination Office team as a Scientific Project Officer, to cover for a maternity leave.
Key Tasks and Responsibilities
- Assist the Executive Director with coordination and core implementation tasks relating to MRI activities, including technical tasks associated with GEO Mountains and its work plan as part of the Adaptation and Altitude programme.
- As part of the MRI Coordination Office team, contribute to the organisation and facilitation of events such as workshops, webinars, research meetings, and conferences, including liaison with external experts, partners, and/or other stakeholders, as required.
- Assist the MRI Coordination Office team and members of the MRI Governing Body, MRI Working Groups, network members, external project partners, and stakeholders in promoting the visibility of mountains and mountain research within scientific organizations, networks, and science–policy fora and platforms.
- Support and collaborate closely with the MRI Communications Manager in developing content for publications, newsletters, website updates, social media, and other outreach channels, as needed.
- Participate in and contribute to MRI Coordination Office team meetings and other interactions with CDE staff as needed.
Skills & Qualifications
- A Bachelor degree in Earth sciences (e.g. geography, geomatics), social sciences and humanities, or other related fields, with a demonstrable interest and/or experience in facilitating inter- and transdisciplinary research collaborations on mountains.
- At least 2 years' experience in project management related activities, including planning and/or facilitating scientific events and multi-stakeholder meetings, with strong analytical and reporting skills, including computer skills.
- Knowledge of and/or experience with EO, data management systems, GIS, and/or data visualisation techniques are an asset.
- Ability to travel and manage multiple tasks and deadlines simultaneously, while adopting a well-organised, efficient, and independent yet collaborative work style as part of a team.
- Excellent intercultural communication, interpersonal, and presentation skills.
- Spoken and written proficiency in English is required, with knowledge of German and/or French being highly desirable.
Your Benefits
- Attractive and flexible working conditions
- Strong research infrastructure and international network
- Individual career support
- Meaningful work and fair compensation
Working at the University of Bern
The University of Bern not only offers exciting tasks but also an environment that actively promotes development, diversity, and equal opportunities. Discover what makes us stand out as an employer and how you can grow with us.
Application and Contact
The position is a part-time temporary 6-month fixed-term contract to cover for a maternity leave. The position ideally starts no later than 1 September 2026, with a 2-day onboarding training session in mid-August 2026. The position is based at the MRI Coordination Office, and the salary is set in accordance with the University of Bern and the employment conditions of the Canton of Bern. The CDE and MRI value diversity and equal opportunity and welcome all applications from qualified individuals who meet the required criteria.
Application
To apply, please complete the online application form of the MRI https://form.jotform.com/261254297979373, and upload the following supporting documents as a single PDF, with your surname as file name: a) Cover letter; b) Curriculum Vitae (4-page max., including the names and contact details of two referees); and c) Letter of recommendation. Please, do not send your application via email or through the University of Bern online form. Applications are accepted until 23:59 CEST, 5 June 2026, or until a suitable candidate is found. Shortlisted candidates will be notified by email to attend an in-person interview on Wednesday 17 June 2026. For questions regarding the position, please contact Carolina Adler at mri@mountainresearchinitiative.org
Application
To apply, please complete the online application form of the MRI https://form.jotform.com/261254297979373, and upload the following supporting documents as a single PDF, with your surname as file name: a) Cover letter; b) Curriculum Vitae (4-page max., including the names and contact details of two referees); and c) Letter of recommendation. Please, do not send your application via email or through the University of Bern online form. Applications are accepted until 23:59 CEST, 5 June 2026, or until a suitable candidate is found. Shortlisted candidates will be notified by email to attend an in-person interview on Wednesday 17 June 2026. For questions regarding the position, please contact Carolina Adler at mri@mountainresearchinitiative.org