Scientific Communication Officer to the Director General EMBL

European Molecular Biology Laboratory

Heidelberg, Germany

Staff Category: Staff Member
Contract Duration: 3 years
Grading: 4, 5 or 6, depending on experience and qualifications
Closing Date: 08 april 2012
Reference number: HD_00207

Job Description

The European Molecular Biology Laboratory (EMBL) is one of the highest ranked scientific research organisations in the world. The Headquarters Laboratory is located in Heidelberg (Germany) and the outstations are in Grenoble (France), Hamburg (Germany), Hinxton (UK) and Monterotondo (Italy).

EMBL is seeking a Scientific Communications Officer to support the EMBL Director General (DG) in a variety of communication related activities. The post holder will report jointly to the DG and the Director of International Relations. Responsibilities include:

• Preparing presentations, speeches and briefings for the DG for a variety of audiences ranging from scientific stakeholders to political delegates;
• Gathering information about visiting delegations and meetings to be attended by the DG;
• Preparing scientific, strategy and policy documents for the DG;
• Supporting the DG in producing the EMBL Programme and Indicative Scheme and promoting it in the EMBL member states;
• Writing reports and summaries of internal and external meetings where required;
• Following developments at EMBL and networking with staff in all sectors to ensure information flow to and from the DG;
• Supporting the International Relations team in member state relations, the drafting of policy papers and other tasks if required;
• Supporting the collection of annual statistics and performance indicators at EMBL.

Qualifications and Experience

A degree in life sciences and some relevant experience preferably in an international setting are required. The ideal candidate will have excellent writing and communication skills. (S)he will be capable of communicating complex scientific, strategic and political concepts to different target audiences, ranging from scientists over policy-makers to the media. Experience in an international organisation and the field of communications or international relations is an asset.
As well as being self-motivated and able to work independently, candidates should have outstanding interpersonal skills and be able to work effectively as part of varying teams. Ability to work fast and to deadlines and to handle a number of tasks simultaneously is essential.
A very good knowledge of MS Office applications, in particular the presentation software packages Powerpoint and Keynote, email and internet applications is required. Applicants should have excellent written and oral English skills. Knowledge of the other official EMBL languages, French and German, is advantageous. International travel will be required.

Application Instructions

Please apply online through www.embl.org/jobs, sending your application in English.

Additional Information

EMBL is an inclusive, equal opportunity employer offering attractive conditions and benefits appropriate to an international research organisation.

Please note that appointments on fixed term contracts can be renewed, depending on circumstances at the time of the review.