The University of Applied Sciences and Arts of Southern Switzerland (SUPSI) invites applications for an Associate Professorship in Sustainability Governance and Transformation at the Competence Centre for Management and Entrepreneurship (CMI), within the Department of Business Economics, Health and Social Care (DEASS). Occupancy level: 80%-100%. Starting date: 01.01.2027 or to be agreed.
Professional context
SUPSI is a dynamic university of applied sciences strongly oriented toward applied research, knowledge transfer, and societal impact. Within SUPSI, the Department of Business Economics, Health and Social Care (DEASS) promotes interdisciplinary approaches to complex societal challenges through close collaboration with institutions, organizations, companies, and communities.
The Competence Centre for Management and Entrepreneurship (CMI) conducts applied research, executive education, and knowledge-transfer activities in the fields of management, entrepreneurship, organizational innovation, sustainability, governance, and organizational transformation. The Centre aims to contribute to the development of responsible, innovative, and socially sustainable organizations and systems, generating impact both locally and internationally.
CMI combines rigorous scientific research with strong engagement with practice. Its activities focus on organizational and institutional transformation, innovation processes, entrepreneurship, leadership, sustainability transitions, governance systems, and the management of complexity in public and private organizations. The Centre is characterized by strong connections with regional stakeholders and institutions while maintaining an active presence in national and international academic and professional networks.
Within this framework, the Associate Professor will contribute to strengthening SUPSI’s profile in sustainability, governance and transformation, with particular attention to the social, and institutional dimensions of sustainability.
Roles and responsibilities
Research and service
- Exercise scientific leadership in the thematic areas of sustainability governance and transformation, with particular attention to societal responses to environmental, social, and economic sustainability challenges.
- Develop and coordinate applied research projects and scientific activities at regional, national, and international levels.
- Publish in high-quality peer-reviewed journals and contribute to the scientific advancement of the field.
- Acquire competitive research funding and service mandates from public institutions, foundations, companies, and international agencies.
- Promote dynamic collaborations with academic, institutional, and professional stakeholders, strengthening CMI’s local and international partnerships.
- Contribute to the dissemination and transfer of scientific knowledge toward organizations, institutions, and society.
Teaching
- Design and deliver teaching activities at undergraduate, postgraduate, executive education, and continuing education levels.
- Contribute to the development of innovative educational offerings related to sustainability, governance, societal transformation, and responsible management.
- Supervise bachelor’s, master’s, and continuing education projects and theses.
- Actively and collegially contribute to the strategic development of the Department’s educational portfolio.
Leadership/management
- Lead research projects from both scientific and managerial perspectives, ensuring their quality, impact and financial sustainability.
- Contribute to the strategic development of the CMI and foster interdisciplinary and transdisciplinary collaborations within DEASS, SUPSI, and external partner organizations.
- Support the development of institutional networks and initiatives aligned with SUPSI’s mission and strategic priorities.
- Promote a collaborative, inclusive, and innovative academic environment.
Skills profile and requirements
- PhD in Sustainability Studies, Political Science, Sociology, Economics, or a related field relevant to the position.
- Strong scientific profile and publication record in areas connected to sustainability, socio-technical transformation, governance and public policy analysis.
- Research and teaching experience with system thinking and system dynamics modelling applied to socio-technical transformation.
- Track record of acquisition and coordination of externally funded projects and service mandates.
- Significant university-level teaching experience.
- Proven experience with societal engagement and transdisciplinary research and demonstrated ability to connect scientific activities with societal and organizational impact.
- Strong relational, organizational, and project-management skills.
- Excellent command of English and Italian.
Additional preferred criteria
- Teaching qualification or willingness to obtain one within four years of appointment, in accordance with SUPSI regulations.
- Knowledge of the Swiss higher education and research system.
- Knowledge of the socioeconomic and institutional context of Canton Ticino.
- Experience in executive education, lifelong learning, or professional training activities.
- Participation in national and international scientific communities and networks.
- Knowledge of German and/or French.
What we offer
- An academic position within a dynamic and internationally oriented university of applied sciences.
- The opportunity to contribute to the strategic development of sustainability-related research and education activities.
- A stimulating and collaborative interdisciplinary environment characterized by a high degree of autonomy and responsibility.
- Strong connections with institutional, professional, and international networks.
- A workplace attentive to innovation, inclusion, quality of human relationships, and societal impact.
Application requirements
The requirements for this role are defined in the “SUPSI Internal Directives” and the “SUPSI Personnel Regulations” available on the “Official Documents” page.
Interested candidates should submit their application by 15.09.2026, through the dedicated online application form. Applications should include:
- Motivation letter in English outlining the candidate’s interest in the position and alignment with SUPSI’s mission.
- Complete curriculum vitae.
- List of scientific publications and copies of the five most significant publications.
- Copies of academic degrees and relevant work certificates.
- Documentation of honors, awards, and scientific recognition.
- At least two recent reference letters attesting to scientific, teaching, and professional qualifications.
- Presentation of research projects and externally funded activities.
- Presentation of university-level teaching activities, including available evaluations.
Additional information
For further information, please contact Luca Crivelli, Director of DEASS (secretariat telephone: +41 58 666 64 44).
Please note that incomplete applications, applications sent to addresses other than the designated platform, or applications received after the deadline will not be considered.
