Lecturer-Researcher in Wall Paintings Conservation — SUPSI / DTI
- Location
- Mendrisio
- Contract
- Full-time
- Posted
Full description
# Lecturer-Researcher in Wall Paintings Conservation
The University of Applied Sciences and Arts of Southern Switzerland (SUPSI) invites applications for a position of at the
Institute of Materials and Constructions
of the Department for Environment Constructions and Design, based in Mendrisio. This is a full-time (100%) fixed-term contract for a maximum of two years, with the possibility of renewal. Start date 01.01.2027 or by agreement.
Responsibilities and activities
Within the Raphael Legacy programme (2026–2032), carried out with the
World Monuments Fund
, the Conservation and Restoration Sector of the Institute of Materials and Constructions is launching a multi-year project for the conservation and restoration of the wall paintings of Villa Imperiale in Pesaro (Italy), together with a new Master of Advanced Studies in Wall Paintings Conservation that trains a new generation of wall paintings conservators on site. To support the programme leader in the research and continuing-education components, we are looking for a lecturer-researcher who combines hands-on expertise in wall paintings conservation, applied research experience and a passion for teaching. Responsibilities include:
- Contribute to the design and implementation of the conservation and restoration programme for the wall paintings of Villa Imperiale: interpretation of scientific data, treatment proposals and the multi-year project.
- Coordinate the activities of the conservation site: supervision of students during fieldwork modules, materials and equipment, health and safety, documentation produced on site.
- Contribute to the design and annual update of the MAS in Wall Paintings Conservation; deliver lectures and seminars.
- Guide students with regular group and individual feedback; take part in their selection and final assessment.
- Conduct applied research in conservation and restoration with conservation scientists and the project's scientific committee, critically analysing and interpreting data.
- Contribute to technical reports, annual reports and scientific papers on the project's results.
Requirements
- Master's degree in wall paintings conservation recognised in Switzerland and Europe
- At least 5 years of professional experience in the conservation and restoration of wall paintings, stone and related architectural decorative surfaces.
- At least 2 years of experience in applied research in the field; familiarity with research methodologies, scientific analysis techniques and the scientific writing standards of the discipline.
- Teaching experience in conservation-restoration: ability to deliver lectures and seminars, assess student work and provide guidance.
- Experience in supervising or mentoring others and in coordinating fieldwork projects
- Sound methodological approach, practical skills and up-to-date knowledge of conservation methods and materials.
- Working knowledge of photographic and graphic documentation techniques and data-management software (Adobe Bridge, Photoshop, Office, GIS and CAD).
- Working knowledge of health and safety requirements for fieldwork.
- Excellent organisational, communication and interpersonal skills; experience in interdisciplinary and international projects and teams.
- Excellent command of Italian and English (C1); other languages are an asset.
- Qualification as Conservator-Restorer of cultural heritage under Italian regulations is an asset.
We offer
- A key role in a multi-year international conservation and training programme on a site of outstanding historical and artistic value.
- An interdisciplinary and international working environment at the intersection of research, fieldwork and teaching.
- Employment conditions according to the SUPSI Staff Regulations and continuing-education opportunities, including the introductory course in university teaching.
Application
Applications, including a motivation letter, CV, copies of diplomas and employment certificates, must be submitted exclusively through the SUPSI online application portal by
27 November 2026
. Applications submitted through other channels or incomplete will not be considered. SUPSI promotes equal opportunities and encourages applications from all qualified candidates.
Information
For information on the position
Prof. Francesca Piqué , Head of the Conservation and Restoration Sector.
Requirements
Master's degree in wall paintings conservation recognised in Switzerland and Europe
At least 5 years of professional experience in the conservation and restoration of wall paintings, stone and related architectural decorative surfaces.
At least 2 years of experience in applied research in the field; familiarity with research methodologies, scientific analysis techniques and the scientific writing standards of the discipline.
Teaching experience in conservation-restoration: ability to deliver lectures and seminars, assess student work and provide guidance.
Experience in supervising or mentoring others and in coordinating fieldwork projects
Sound methodological approach, practical skills and up-to-date knowledge of conservation methods and materials.
Working knowledge of photographic and graphic documentation techniques and data-management software (Adobe Bridge, Photoshop, Office, GIS and CAD).
Working knowledge of health and safety requirements for fieldwork.
Excellent organisational, communication and interpersonal skills; experience in interdisciplinary and international projects and teams.
Excellent command of Italian and English (C1); other languages are an asset.
Qualification as Conservator-Restorer of cultural heritage under Italian regulations is an asset.
Questions about this listing
What salary does SUPSI / DTI offer for this role?
The original listing does not state a salary. Our estimate for this role and sector in Mendrisio is CHF 51'500 - 88'000 gross per year — an estimate, not a figure communicated by SUPSI / DTI. The calculator on this site converts a gross salary into your actual net take-home once cross-border tax and social contributions are applied.
Is this a full-time role, and what type of contract does SUPSI / DTI offer?
This listing is a full-time position. The contract type shown here comes directly from the employer's original posting; always confirm exact hours, notice period and probation length with SUPSI / DTI during the application process, since these details can vary by role even within the same contract category.
Do I need the G permit to apply for this role in Ticino as an Italian cross-border worker?
Yes. For EU/EFTA citizens the G permit no longer depends on a border zone: you need residence in an EU/EFTA state, a Swiss contract and a return home at least once a week. The 20 km band matters for taxation, not for the permit. The Swiss employer files the G-permit application at the Ticino cantonal migration office after the contract is signed — first issuance takes 2-6 weeks. The permit lasts five years with an open-ended contract or one over a year, otherwise for the length of the contract.
How do I apply for this position at SUPSI / DTI?
Use the "Apply now" button on this page — it links directly to SUPSI / DTI's original listing at supsi.ch, so your application goes straight to the employer's own applicant-tracking system. Frontaliere Ticino does not collect or forward applications itself.
