EPFL, the Swiss Federal Institute of Technology in Lausanne, is one of the most dynamic university campuses in Europe and ranks among the top 20 universities worldwide. The EPFL employs more than 6,500 people supporting the three main missions of the institutions: education, research and innovation. The EPFL campus offers an exceptional working environment at the heart of a community of more than 18,500 people, including over 14,000 students and 4,000 researchers from more than 120 different countries.

Fundraising Officer - EPFL Vice-Presidency for Support to Strategic Initiatives and EPFL AI Center

Mission

Are you passionate about driving positive impact of science in our society? Are you motivated to help EPFL unleash its enormous potential and position the institution at the forefront of AI, Health and Sustainability in Switzerland and worldwide? Do you have experience in establishing and managing impactful collaborations with strategic partners?

Apply now!

 

The Vice-Presidency for Support to Strategic Initiatives (VPS) develops an ambitious game-changing program in AI, Health and Sustainability. The EPFL AI Center, in close collaboration with VPS, aims to advance research, education and innovation in AI at EPFL and beyond. It is at the core of a vibrant EPFL community and dynamic external ecosystem that includes a large number of partners and stakeholders in AI, including academia, industry, government, and international organisations.

To supplement our teams, we seek an experienced, dynamic and mission-driven Fundraising Officer. This role is critical in securing third-party funding, cultivating donor relationships, and aligning strategic fundraising initiatives across EPFL. The Fundraising Officer will also serve as the Liaison Officer to the EPFL Philanthropy Office, ensuring smooth coordination and synergy with central philanthropy efforts.

Main duties and responsibilities

Your mission will be to develop and execute ambitious and strategic partnership programs in AI, Health and Sustainability. This is a dynamic opportunity for a strategic thinker and relationship builder who is passionate about advancing academic research in artificial intelligence, health and sustainability, at one of Europe’s leading technical universities. As part of the VPS and EPFL AI Center teams, and under their respective leaderships, you will have the following tasks and responsibilities:

 

Fundraising Strategy and Execution:

  • Work closely with academic leads and project managers to articulate funding needs and opportunities.
  • Co-develop and implement tailored fundraising strategies to support VPS and AI Center initiatives and projects.
  • Support the preparation of compelling funding proposals, cases for support, and donor engagement materials.
  • Strengthen existing and support the development of new relationships with major donors, foundations, and corporate partners.
  • Track fundraising pipelines and ensure alignment with institutional priorities
  • Support both VPS and AI Center engagement with strategic stakeholders

Liaison to the Philanthropy Office:

  • Act as the central point of contact for fundraising between VPS, the AI Center, and the EPFL Philanthropy Office.
  • Ensure best practices in fundraising, donor stewardship, and reporting are implemented across both units.
  • Contribute to EPFL-wide philanthropic strategies, prospect meetings, and coordination efforts to avoid donor fatigue.

Profile

  • University degree in a relevant field (science or engineering) with a strong interest in fundraising.
  • At least 5 years of experience in fundraising, partnership development, or external relations, preferably in an academic environment.
  • Proven track record in securing high-value gifts or strategic partnerships.
  • Familiarity with academic and research environments, particularly in science and technology domains, is a plus.
  • Strong communication and interpersonal skills with aptitude in building relationships with professionals of all organization levels and different cultures. Excellent organizational skills and ability in problem-solving and negotiation.
  • Team player, autonomous, curious with a strong commitment to results.
  • Proficiency in English and French.

 

Please note that only applications meeting the criteria of the advertisement will be considered.

We offer

  • Collaborative and innovative work environment.
  • Access to a diverse and dynamic community of researchers, entrepreneurs and industry experts, and philanthropists .
  • A stimulating and friendly work atmosphere with excellent working conditions.
  • An inclusive workspace and equal opportunities for all.

Informations

Contract Start Date : 05/01/2025 

Activity Rate Min : 80,00 

Activity Rate Max : 100,00 

Contract Type: CDD

Duration: Fixed-term 1 year renewable 

Reference: 1537 

 

Only candidates who applied through EPFL website or our partner Jobup's website will be considered.