Die Schweizerische Botschaft in Berlin sucht per 01.09.2026 oder nach Vereinbarung eine/n Wissenschaftsreferent/in in der Abteilung Wissenschaft und Kultur. Die Stelle ist zunächst auf zwei Jahre befristet, mit Möglichkeit auf Verlängerung.

Die Schweizerische Botschaft vertritt die Schweizer Regierung in Deutschland und fördert die bilateralen Beziehungen zwischen beiden Ländern. Die Abteilung Wissenschaft und Kultur verantwortet die Zusammenarbeit in den Bereichen Bildung, Forschung, Innovation (BFI), Digitalisierung und Kultur.

Zur Verstärkung unserer Aktivitäten im BFI-Bereich – mit wachsendem Fokus auf Innovation, Start-ups und neue Technologien – suchen wir eine engagierte Persönlichkeit. Die Stelle ist Teil des internationalen Swissnex-Netzwerks des Staatssekretariats für Bildung, Forschung und Innovation (SBFI).

Möchten Sie die Zusammenarbeit zwischen der Schweiz und Deutschland im Bereich Bildung, Forschung und Innovation aktiv voranbringen und Impulse in den Bereichen Innovation, Start-ups und neue Technologien setzen? Dann freuen wir uns auf Ihre Bewerbung.

Ihre Aufgaben:

• Mitwirkung bei der Vertretung der Schweizer Interessen in Deutschland im BFI-Bereich
• Aufbau und Pflege eines Netzwerks mit relevanten Akteuren aus Wissenschaft, Politik, Innovation und dem Start-up-Umfeld
• Initiierung und Begleitung von Projekten zur Vernetzung von Schweizer Start-ups mit dem deutschen Ökosystem
• Unterstützung und Weiterentwicklung bilateraler Kooperationsinstrumente gemeinsam mit Schweizer Partnerinstitutionen
• Beobachtung, Analyse und Berichterstattung zur deutschen BFI-Politik aus Schweizer Perspektive
• Organisation und Begleitung von Veranstaltungen, Delegationen und Fachbesuchen
• Vermittlung von Kontakten zwischen schweizerischen und deutschen Akteuren
• Mitarbeit in der Kommunikations- und Öffentlichkeitsarbeit

Ihr Profil

• Universitätsabschluss (Master oder gleichwertig)
• Gute Kenntnisse der deutschen und Schweizer BFI-Landschaft
• Erste relevante Berufserfahrung, idealerweise im internationalen oder institutionellen Kontext
• Ausgeprägtes Interesse an Innovation, Start-ups und technologischen Entwicklungen
• Starke Kommunikations- und Netzwerkfähigkeiten
• Strukturierte, selbständige und zuverlässige Arbeitsweise sowie analytisches Denkvermögen
• Kontaktfreude und Hands-on-Mentalität
• Stilsicheres Deutsch, sehr gute Englischkenntnisse
• EU/EWR- oder Schweizer Staatsangehörigkeit
• Bereitschaft zu Dienstreisen und Teilnahme an Abendveranstaltungen

Wir bieten:

• Eine abwechslungsreiche Tätigkeit in einem engagierten Team
• Einblick in die bilaterale Zusammenarbeit zwischen der Schweiz und Deutschland
• Mitarbeit an aktuellen Themen an der Schnittstelle von Wissenschaft, Innovation und Politik
• Gestaltungsspielraum im Rahmen der Aufgaben
• Anstellung nach deutschem Arbeitsrecht mit angemessenen, marktgerechten Lohnbedingungen abhängig von Ihren Qualifikationen
• Arbeitsort im politischen Zentrum Berlins, in unmittelbarer Nähe zu den zentralen Institutionen der deutschen Bundespolitik

Ihre Bewerbung

Bitte senden Sie Ihre Bewerbung bis zum 24.05.2026 an: [email protected]

Betreff: «Bewerbung Wissenschaftsreferent/in» mit folgenden Unterlagen:

• Motivationsschreiben (max. 1 Seite, mit Bezug zur Schweiz)
• Lebenslauf (max. 2 Seiten)
• Lohnvorstellungen
• Optional: Referenzen

Detaillierte Rückfragen können gerne im Rahmen eines Vorstellungsgesprächs gestellt werden. Kosten für die Teilnahme an Vorstellungsgesprächen werden nicht übernommen.

As a member of the Swissnex team, the Program Manager, Nature & Bioeconomy will be responsible for conceptualizing, planning, and delivering a diverse portfolio of activities focused on climate, nature, and the bioeconomy. This includes producing thought leadership content, organizing events and workshops, coordinating delegation visits, and developing collaborative programs that connect Switzerland, Brazil, and the global Swissnex network.

A strong emphasis will be placed on generating high-quality insights, newsletters, articles, and reports in English, contributing to positioning Swissnex as a thought leader in this strategic field on a global level.

You will have the opportunity to be part of a highly dynamic and creative team, proactively help shape the only Swissnex office in Latin America, expand your skills and professional knowledge through educational opportunities and events, and interact and collaborate with high-level representatives from Switzerland, Brazil, and beyond.

Reporting to the Head of Programs and working in close collaboration with the CEO, the Program Manager will operate within a highly collaborative team environment. The role involves close coordination with other Program Managers and cross-functional teams, including Operations, Communications, and the Chief of Staff, to ensure effective project delivery.

Swissnex is the global network connecting Switzerland and the world in education, research, innovation, and the arts. Our mission is to support the outreach and active engagement of our partners in the international exchange of knowledge, ideas, and talent. We thereby contribute to strengthening Switzerland’s profile as a world-leading innovation hotspot. Swissnex is an initiative of Switzerland’s State Secretariat for Education, Research and Innovation (SERI) and is part of the Swiss Confederation’s network abroad managed by the Federal Department of Foreign Affairs (FDFA). The activities of Swissnex are based on a collaborative approach, relying on public and private partnerships and funding. In Brazil, Swissnex is based in São Paulo and Rio de Janeiro, running activities all over the country and beyond.

Program Management & Strategic Development

• Manage Swissnex’s climate, nature, and bioeconomy portfolio, including activities focusing on the Amazon region;
• Drive the development and implementation of initiatives, including the soon-to-be-launched Living Forest Coalition;
• Support and expand programs such as nexBio Amazonia;
• Build and nurture partnerships with Swiss and Brazilian stakeholders across academia, startups, corporates, NGOs, and government;
• Identify emerging opportunities and develop new program concepts aligned with Swissnex priorities.
• Apply and maintain Swissnex Brazil’s standardized project management workflow across all initiatives (initiation, planning, execution, closing), ensuring all deliverables, documentation, and reporting meet quality standards and are completed in a timely manner.

Content Creation & Thought Leadership

• Produce high-quality content on emerging topics such as:
  • Nature-based solutions
  • Nature finance and innovative funding models
  • Carbon and biodiversity credits
  • Bioeconomy trends and innovation
  • Climate tech and nature tech
  • Indigenous knowledge and practices
  • Regenerative business models
  • Reforestation and conservation initiatives
  • Insights from the Amazon ecosystem
  • Bioregionalism
  • Swissnex’s concept of “planetary diplomacy”
• Translate complex topics into engaging, accessible formats (articles, reports, interviews, social media content)
• Contribute to Swissnex’s positioning as a leading voice in the field
• Collaborate with communications teams to amplify impact and visibility

Ecosystem Engagement

• Engage with key stakeholders in Switzerland and Latin America
• Represent Swissnex at events, conferences, and workshops;
• Facilitate knowledge exchange between Swiss and Brazilian stakeholders;
• Curate and moderate discussions, events, and other exchange formats.

Required

• 4-7+ years of experience in program/project management, innovation, sustainability, or related fields;
• Strong knowledge of bioeconomy, sustainability, or environmental innovation;
• Proven experience in content creation, writing, or storytelling (articles, reports, publications, etc.);
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills in English, the primary working language (Portuguese is a strong asset);
• Ability to translate complex topics into clear, compelling narratives;
• Experience working in multi-stakeholder, international environments;
• Strong organizational and project management skills.

Preferred

• Experience working with or in the Amazon region;
• Familiarity with topics such as nature finance, climate tech, or conservation;
• Background in journalism, research, policy, or communications;
• Existing network in sustainability and innovation ecosystems.

• Start date: 01.09.2026
• This is a 100% in-person position based at the Swissnex office in São Paulo;
• Limited to 12 months, with the possibility of renewal;
• Compensation based on local salary benchmarks;
• The position requires flexible work hours, including some evenings and weekends;
• Brazilian work permit or citizenship required;
• Application deadline: 08.06.2026.

Swissnex in Brazil is looking for a proactive, organized, and entrepreneurial Program Associate to support the development and implementation of Swissnex activities and projects across Brazil and Switzerland. Apply until 8 June 2026.

Swissnex is the global network connecting Switzerland and the world in education, research, innovation, and the arts. Our mission is to support the outreach and active engagement of our partners in the international exchange of knowledge, ideas, and talent. We thereby contribute to strengthening Switzerland’s profile as a world-leading innovation hotspot. Swissnex is an initiative of Switzerland’s State Secretariat for Education, Research and Innovation (SERI) and is part of the Swiss Confederation’s network abroad managed by the Federal Department of Foreign Affairs (FDFA). The activities of Swissnex are based on a collaborative approach, relying on public and private partnerships and funding. In Brazil, Swissnex is based in São Paulo and Rio de Janeiro, running activities throughout the country and beyond.

As part of the Swissnex team in Brazil, you are expected to take ownership of accomplishing new and different requests from Swiss and Brazilian stakeholders. You will be working in some of the most dynamic cities in the world, where opportunities and encounters are constantly happening. You will have the chance to explore such opportunities and contribute directly to innovative, scientific, and entrepreneurial projects by giving inputs, connecting people, doing research, organizing events, and coordinating suppliers.

Reactively and proactively work with the Swissnex CEO and the core team of Swissnex Brazil to accomplish tasks and respond to requests; assist and, where possible, take full ownership of the professional implementation of projects and events; and contribute with new ideas and initiatives to further Swissnex’ unique mission and objectives.

Event Planning & Management:

• Conduct research & participate in brainstorming for event topics;
• Independent planning, preparation, and execution of projects and events;
• Identify, contact, and coach potential speakers/exhibitors/participants;
• Manage local stakeholders, service companies, and suppliers;
• Assist with public relations and communication between partners, sponsors, and other project partners.

Logistics & Administration:

• Draft funding applications and reports;
• Update and maintain event project database;
• Logistical organization, including setting up the event room, cleaning, welcoming, and registering guests;
• Take charge of AV management during events & generally support the ‘back-end’ of events;
• Execute administrative duties such as assisting in-office maintenance, basic IT support, mail distribution.

Networking:

• Reactively and proactively promote collaboration between people and organizations in Switzerland and Brazil;
• Occasionally attend events, conferences, and meetings as a Swissnex representative, and share contacts, findings, and learnings with the Swissnex team.

General / Personality:

• Outgoing, communicative; avid networker and connector;
• Independent, self-motivated;
• Hands-on, proactive;
• Visionary, creative, resourceful;
• Dedication to further Swiss excellence in science, education, innovation, and art.

Background / Experience:

• Recent Bachelor’s or Master’s degree (starting date maximum 1 year after graduation date);
• Proven experience planning and managing events and/or projects;
• Professional mastery of Portuguese language (reading and speaking, B2 level or more);
• Professional mastery of at least one Swiss national language;
• Professional mastery of the English language;
• International experience (Brazilian and Swiss experience a plus).

Skills:

• Proven organizational skills and ability to multi-task;
• Ability to independently implement projects;
• Excellent people and communication skills (verbal and written);
• Attention to detail;
• Solid time management and ability to prioritize;
• Web and social media savvy are a plus

• Full-time position based in São Paulo, Brazil.
• Duration: 6 months to 1 year (depending on organizational needs)
• Compensation according to local standards and Swiss Confederation internship regulations.
• Flexibility required for occasional evening events and activities outside regular office hours
• Start date: 01.09.2026

This internship is offered through the Swiss Confederation academic internship framework. Applicants must fulfill the following eligibility requirements:

• Swiss citizens, or foreign nationals holding a valid Swiss residence and work permit for the entire duration of the internship, are eligible to apply.
• The internship must begin no later than one year after completion of the candidate’s Bachelor’s or Master’s degree.
• The total duration of internships completed within the Swiss federal administration after graduation may not exceed twelve months in total, regardless of workload percentage.
• Candidates with dual Swiss-Brazilian nationality are not eligible for this position.

Apply here – Application deadline: 08.06.2026

Swissnex in Brazil is looking for a versatile, proactive, creative, and detail-oriented Communications Associate to support the Communications Lead in implementing Swissnex’s communication activities across Brazil and Switzerland. Apply until 8 June 2026.

Swissnex is the global network connecting Switzerland and the world in education, research, innovation, and the arts. Our mission is to support the outreach and active engagement of our partners in the international exchange of knowledge, ideas, and talent. We thereby contribute to strengthening Switzerland’s profile as a world-leading innovation hotspot. Swissnex is an initiative of Switzerland’s State Secretariat for Education, Research and Innovation (SERI) and is part of the Swiss Confederation’s network abroad managed by the Federal Department of Foreign Affairs (FDFA). The activities of Swissnex are based on a collaborative approach, relying on public and private partnerships and funding. In Brazil, Swissnex is based in São Paulo and Rio de Janeiro, running activities all over the country.

The Communications Associate will contribute to content creation, social media management, event communications, website updates, visual production, and community engagement, while gaining hands-on experience in an international and fast-paced environment. The successful candidate will work closely with the Communications Lead and collaborate with the broader Swissnex Brazil team, including program managers, external partners, and members of the global Swissnex network.

Communications & Content Support

• Support the Communications Lead in implementing institutional and project-based communication campaigns.
• Draft and edit content for newsletters, blog posts, social media, reports, presentations, invitations, and promotional materials.
• Help maintain and update the Swissnex Brazil website, including event pages, news articles, and other digital content.
• Support the production and distribution of the monthly newsletter.
• Assist in collecting communication metrics and preparing basic analytics reports.
• Maintain media databases, contact lists, and communication templates.

Social Media & Digital Communications

• Contribute to the planning, scheduling, and publishing of social media content across platforms.
• Monitor social media engagement and support community management activities.
• Assist in creating engaging storytelling content related to Swissnex programs, partnerships, and events.
• Help ensure consistency with Swissnex branding and communication guidelines.

Visual Content & Creative Support

• Support the creation of visual materials such as presentations, flyers, banners, simple graphics, and short-form video content.
• Assist in photography and audiovisual coverage during events and visits.
• Coordinate with external designers, photographers, videographers, and vendors when needed.
• Help organize and maintain visual content archives and communication assets.

Events & Public Relations Support

• Support communications activities related to events, delegations, workshops, and public programs.
• Help coordinate invitations, mailing lists, registrations, and event promotion.
• Represent Swissnex at selected events and networking activities when appropriate.

• Contribute to the collaborative and dynamic work environment of Swissnex in Brazil.
• Support administrative and operational tasks related to communications and events, as needed.
• Participate actively in team meetings, brainstorming sessions, and organizational initiatives.

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in communications, marketing, media, journalism, design, international relations, or a related field.
• Initial experience in communications, social media, content creation, marketing, journalism, or public relations through internships or university projects.
• Basic skills in graphic design, photography, or Canva / Adobe Creative. Video editing skills will be considered a plus.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills in English.
• Good command of Portuguese or willingness to improve quickly in a Brazilian environment.
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Ability to manage multiple tasks simultaneously in a dynamic and international environment.
• Familiarity with social media platforms, content management systems, and digital communication tools.
• Hands-on attitude with willingness to support both strategic and operational tasks.
• Interest in science, education, innovation, sustainability, technology, design, and the arts.

• Full-time position based in São Paulo, Brazil.
• Duration: 6 months to 1 year (depending on organizational needs)
• Compensation according to local standards and Swiss Confederation internship regulations.
• Flexibility required for occasional evening events and activities outside regular office hours.
• Start date: 01.09.2026

This internship is offered through the Swiss Confederation academic internship framework. Applicants must fulfill the following eligibility requirements:

• Swiss citizens, or foreign nationals holding a valid Swiss residence and work permit for the entire duration of the internship, are eligible to apply.
• The internship must begin no later than one year after completion of the candidate’s Bachelor’s or Master’s degree.
• The total duration of internships completed within the Swiss federal administration after graduation may not exceed twelve months in total, regardless of workload percentage.

Apply here – Application deadline: 08.06.2026

Starting from: July 1, 2026 or upon agreement

Contract duration: 12 months with expectation of extension

Workload: Full-time, 40 hours/week

Location: Consulate General of Switzerland, 62/F Central Plaza 18 Harbour Road, Wanchai, Hong Kong

Program Execution & Project Management

• Independently lead and support Startup Camps, innovation scouting mandates, research and innovation sabbaticals, delegation visits, and thematic projects.
• Manage workstreams and ensure smooth delivery of activities and milestones.

Research, Ecosystem Mapping & Partner Identification

• Conduct in-depth research on Hong Kong, Shenzhen, and the Greater Bay Area.
• Identify relevant companies, startups, investors, universities, research institutes, and partners.
• Develop strategic insights into how Hong Kong and the GBA can serve as a gateway for education, research, and innovation, and translate these into concrete opportunities, partnerships, and programs for Swiss stakeholders.

Communication, Outreach & Stakeholder Engagement

• Prepare briefings, presentations, and program materials.
• Organize events, roundtables, and visits.
• Build relationships with Swiss and local stakeholders and represent Swissnex externally.

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in innovation, business, international relations, science and technology, engineering, or a related field.
• 2–4 years of relevant experience in startups, innovation, research, consulting, business development, universities, or related fields.
• Strong understanding of the Hong Kong and GBA education, research, and innovation ecosystem.
• Ability to independently conduct in-depth research, manage mandates, and identify relevant trends, partners, and opportunities.
• Experience working with startups, companies, universities, investors, or innovation programs.
• Comfortable working across cultures, time zones, and institutional contexts.
• Excellent written and spoken English, Mandarin, and Cantonese.
• Strong organizational skills and ability to manage multiple workstreams.
• Based in Hong Kong and holding the right to work in Hong Kong.

• Hands-on, reliable, and detail-oriented, with a strong sense of responsibility.
• Strong team player with the ability to engage with diverse stakeholders.
• Commercial awareness and curiosity about business opportunities and partnerships. Strong interest in startups, innovation, and market dynamics.
• Positive attitude and adaptability in a fast-paced environment.

• A dynamic role within an international diplomatic network focused on science, technology, education, and innovation.
• Opportunities for professional development and exposure to cutting-edge topics and international collaboration.
• 20 days of paid leave per year, plus ~15 days of a mix of Hong Kong and Swiss public holidays.

Please submit:

• Resume / CV
• Motivation letter

Application Deadline: Rolling applications until the position is filled.