Job Description

About BIIE

The Botnar Institute of Immune Engineering (BIIE) is a new interdisciplinary research institute dedicated to innovation in immune engineering. Founded in 2024 through a generous endowment from Fondation Botnar, the BIIE supports scientists in taking on some of the world’s most challenging problems in immunology and global health. The institute unites experts across immunology, biomedicine, bioengineering, computational biology, artificial intelligence, and machine learning, creating a unique multidisciplinary environment with a mission to make a lasting impact and to train future leaders in immune engineering.

Tasks

We are seeking an experienced HR Manager & Business Partner (HRBP) to manage our human resources function and act as the primary strategic HR consultant to our leadership and research groups. The ideal candidate will support our scientific mission by implementing effective HR processes, managing talent, and fostering a positive work environment that enables our researchers and staff to excel. This role requires exceptional organizational skills, discretion, and the ability to work effectively and proactively in a dynamic, international research environment. This position reports to the Head of HR.

Key Responsibilities

Recruitment and Staffing

• Prepare employment contracts compliant with Swiss labor law
• Coordinate work permit applications for international researchers and staff
• Design and implement effective onboarding processes for new employees

Personnel Administration

• Maintain accurate and confidential employee records for all institute staff
• Process salary changes, promotions, and transfers in line with institute policies
• Administer leave management (vacation, illness, military service, etc.)
• Handle employment terminations and conduct exit interviews
• Process monthly payroll in coordination with the accounting department

Compliance and Legal

• Ensure compliance with Swiss labor laws and regulations in all HR practices
• Coordinates mandatory social insurance registrations (AHV/IV, unemployment, pension funds)
• Coordinate with accident and health insurance providers
• Implement and regularly update institute policies and employee handbook

HR Operations

• Manage time and attendance systems appropriate for a research environment
• Prepare HR reports and statistics for management
• Support management with HR-related aspects of research planning and grant applications

HR Business Partnering & Strategic Support

• Consultation & Coaching: Serve as the trusted advisor and single point of contact for research group leadership and management team on strategic HR matters, organizational design, talent planning, and change management within their research groups.
• Performance & Development: Guide managers through the performance management cycle, including goal setting, reviews, and linking individual development plans to BIIE's strategic objectives.
• Team Effectiveness: Proactively identify organizational needs and partner with leaders to implement solutions related to team structure, succession planning, and skills gaps.
• Conflict Resolution: Mediate complex workplace conflicts and employee relations issues, providing sensitive and legally compliant guidance to ensure fairness and adherence to policy in our multicultural environment.

Requirements

• 5+ years of progressive HR experience, with a minimum of 2 years in a dedicated HR Business Partner or HR consulting role, preferably in research, academic, or life sciences settings
• Strong knowledge of Swiss employment law and social insurance system
• Experience with Swiss payroll administration
• Proficiency in German and English required
• Excellent organizational and communication skills
• High level of confidentiality, integrity, and cultural sensitivity
• Experience working in international environments
• Understanding of the specific needs of a research institution

Joining BIIE offers a unique opportunity to shape communications for a growing institute at the forefront of biomedical innovation. If you are an experienced communications professional with a passion for science, we encourage you to apply.