Helmholtz Brussels Office is looking for a EU Policy and Strategy Officer

The Helmholtz Association pursues the long-term research goals of the state, society and the economy. To this end its 18 scientific-technical and biological-medical research centres conduct top-level research in six research fields. With more than 46.000 employees, the Helmholtz Association is Germany's largest scientific organisation.

The Brussels Office of the Helmholtz Association provides information and support in all aspects of European research funding for both the scientists and the executive boards of the Helmholtz research centres. Its goal is to facilitate their participation in EU Research programmes. It also represents the interests of the Helmholtz Association at European level and prepares Helmholtz positions and input on European science policy.

What they offer:

• An attractive and challenging full-time position (39 hours/week) at the intersection of research and society, initially limited to two years.
• A competitive salary with additional benefits.
• A stimulating and professional work environment characterized by independent action and constructive, collegial collaboration within an engaged team.
• Individual training opportunities to enable professional and personal development.

Key Responsibilities

• Monitoring political developments regarding technological sovereignty, international cooperation, and science diplomacy at the European level, and developing Helmholtz positions and appropriate activities.
• Identifying relevant cross-cutting issues at the EU and international levels, and positioning the interests of the Helmholtz Association and its centers.
• Providing professional support and advice to the Helmholtz centers, as well as assisting in EU research policy and strategic advocacy.
• Close collaboration with the International and Public Affairs team at the Helmholtz office in Berlin to coordinate topics and positions.
• Organizing events in Brussels in cooperation with the Helmholtz centers and the Helmholtz office.
• Scouting and analyzing current and future framework conditions at the European level.
• Organizing information events (both physical and remote) to increase the flow of information to the centers on EU-relevant topics.
• Representing the Helmholtz Association at relevant thematic events in Europe, potentially with active contributions, presentations, etc..
• Proactively networking and coordinating with relevant stakeholders (partner organizations) in the German, European, and international research landscape on pertinent policy issues.

Education and experience:

• You have a university degree (Master’s or equivalent qualification) in a relevant field.
• You have in-depth knowledge of EU structures, research policy, and funding, and you have experience in preparing and implementing European research projects.
• You have experience in positioning scientific topics within a political context.
• You are capable of conceptual and strategic work (e.g., drafting statements) and can quickly and reliably acquire new, complex information.
• You are flexible and able to prioritize in a complex, rapidly changing environment.
• You have excellent communication skills and work independently as well as in a team.
• You have excellent German and English language skills, ideally supplemented by French language skills.
• Knowledge of the German research landscape is an advantage.
• A well-established network in Brussels is desirable.

Application process: 

Please submit your detailed application documents to Frau Dr. Effrosyni Chelioti - Head of Communication and External Relations by 13 February 2025.

Please apply exclusively via the online portal. Applications sent by email or post cannot be considered.

For questions regarding the position, please contact Dr. Chelioti (+49 30 206329-58) or the Head of the Brussels Office, Mr. Ioannis Legouras (+32 2 5000-972).