Knowledge and Technology Transfer (KTT) Officer

50%-80%, Zurich, fixed-term

The National Center of Competence in Research NCCR Catalysis (www.nccr-catalysis.ch) aims to revolutionize catalysis research in Switzerland, developing skills, tools, and technologies that facilitate the transition towards a carbon neutral chemical industry. This challenging goal requires a cross‐disciplinary approach, combining catalysis, chemistry, materials science, chemical and process engineering, and computer science with translational approaches in research, education, and society. Jointly led by ETH Zurich and EPFL Lausanne, the network currently comprises seven universities and one research institute in Switzerland, and is funded by the Swiss National Science Foundation.

To build a strong cooperation with industry and to support internal projects with high innovation and commercialization potential, we are searching for a Knowledge and Technology Transfer (KTT) Officer to join our Project Office.

Job description

You will play a central role in developing the knowledge and technology transfer activities of NCCR Catalysis. You will lead efforts towards establishing collaborations with industrial partners as well as creating spin-offs within the broad domain of sustainable chemical processes. Your main duties will be:

• Develop and monitor progress of NCCR Catalysis KTT strategy.


• Act as a contact point for industry, coordinating the interaction with NCCR Catalysis.


• Search for paths towards developing multilateral interactions and framework agreements with industry.


• Promote and provide guidance with patent applications and licensing.


• Identify, support, and lead efforts to create spin-offs within NCCR Catalysis research.


• Coordinate the KTT educational program.


• Organize transfer events and KTT communication with industrial and societal stakeholders.


• Report on KTT activities and disseminate achievements.

We offer a dynamic environment in a multilingual team, flexible working conditions, and good social benefits in line with the standards of ETH Zurich. The start date will be May 1 2021, or as soon as possible thereafter.

Your profile

You have a scientific background in chemistry or chemical engineering with a good knowledge of the chemical industry. Along with a strong interest in innovation and technology, you should ideally have experience in KTT or entrepreneurship, be familiar with different models of innovation and business development, and have knowledge of how to transfer research into relevant applications and industries. Experience in intellectual property rights, setup of research spin-off businesses, and negotiation of contracts with industry are also highly valued.

As a proactive individual with a creative and critical mindset and good organizational skills you are confident in leading the activities described above. A good command of English and German is essential.

ETH Zurich

ETH Zurich is one of the world’s leading universities specialising in science and technology. We are renowned for our excellent education, cutting-edge fundamental research and direct transfer of new knowledge into society. Over 30,000 people from more than 120 countries find our university to be a place that promotes independent thinking and an environment that inspires excellence. Located in the heart of Europe, yet forging connections all over the world, we work together to develop solutions for the global challenges of today and tomorrow. Working, teaching and research at ETH Zurich