Policy Officer International Research Collaboration

Science Europe

Length of contract
3 year

About the Organisation

Science Europe is a membership association of national public European research funding and research-performing organisations from 30 countries. Based in Brussels, we promote the collective interests of our Member Organisations through our advocacy work and support them in their efforts to foster European research and innovation by offering a forum for collaboration. We contribute to the development of robust research policies in Europe and to the European Research Area through engagement with key partners at European and international levels.

About the role

The Policy Officer – International Research Collaboration is responsible for supporting co-operation among Science Europe Member Organisations and for developing advocacy strategies on key issues for scientific research in Europe. To do so, the position holder works closely with experts from the Member Organisations, Science Europe Office staff, and with relevant external organisations. As a Policy Officer, you will assume responsibilities for International Research Collaboration, in line with Science Europe’s Strategy Plan. Reporting to the Secretary General.

Responsibilities

• Co-ordinates all Science Europe activities related to international research collaboration;
• Supports the Secretary General to liaise between the General Assembly, Governing Board, and the Office, preparing relevant documents, and assisting in the implementation of activities and projects;
• Collects and organises the discussions on existing initiatives in the areas of responsibility;
• Supports co-operation between Member Organisations and implements activities with relevant Working Groups and Task Forces as necessary;
• Develops advocacy messages, campaigns, and long-term agendas in the areas of responsibility;
• Co-ordinates all activities in the topic areas of responsibility, including the organisation of events and meetings;
• Develops partnerships with external organisations in Europe and globally as necessary, keeping abreast of the developments in the areas described above;
• Drafts or contributes to draft briefings and reports, policy documents, and other communication materials, such as press releases, press articles, communication campaigns, newsletters, social media, and so on, as determined by Science Europe’s activities;
• Collaborates with other Office staff to contribute to the overall realisation of the objectives of the organisation.

Skills, Competencies & Experience

Qualifications and Experience:

• A minimum of 4–6 years relevant work experience, in research policy or research administration, and/or in thematic areas relevant to research policy topics;
• Sound background on mechanisms of publicly funded scientific research systems, particularly at the global level;
• Experience working in a research performing or research funding organisation, and a good understanding of an international membership organisation or association;
• In-depth knowledge of the policy-making processes at the European and global level;
• Proven capacity in project and event management;
• Experience working with academics and policy makers in an international context;
• Advanced writing and editing skills in English, and the capacity to write articles, reports, and policy papers for different audiences;
• Pro-active, flexible, and ‘hands-on’ approach to work;
• Strong analytical thinking and scientific awareness with the ability to interpret and explain policy developments;
• Strong organisational skills and capacity to deliver high-quality results under pressure;
• Service-oriented and demonstrated concern for meeting the needs of members in membership organisations;
• Proven capacity to deal with stakeholders and broker common positions;
• Experience working in a scientific or academic environment;
• Ability to work both in a team and independently, on own initiative;
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and work effectively with tight deadlines;
• Strong interpersonal, external networking, and negotiation skills.

Required Qualifications

• Education to a Master’s degree, with an orientation towards research values and research in and for society. A doctoral degree is an added value.

Compensation & Benefits

• Competitive salary package
• Meal vouchers
• Medical and hospital insurance
• Group insurance for pension.

Conditions of employment

• You must have the right to work in Belgium

Working locations

• Brussels, Belgium

How to apply

• To apply, please send an email to [email protected] with a CV in English, two references, and a one-page cover letter, Name, and in the subject line "Policy Officer – International Research Collaboration" by 5th October 2025 at 23:59 CEST
• Incomplete applications will not be considered.

Interviews

• Applications will be reviewed upon submission, and suitable applicants may be contacted for an interview prior to the deadline. 
• Please note that only successful applicants will be contacted.

Policies

The personal data (CV, motivation letter, and so on) that you communicate to Science Europe will be treated confidentially and processed in accordance with our Applicant’s Privacy Notice.

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