Scientific writing, Communications and Project Officer

The European Molecular Biology Laboratory (EMBL) is a world leader in scientific research and at the forefront in the development of cutting-edge technologies and services to the scientific community.

Eileen Furlong, Head of the Genome Biology Dept./Unit, is looking for a highly motivated, dynamic and well-organised individual with a strong scientific background to support her in a variety of scientific and strategic functions.

The Genome Biology Unit hosts 9 interdisciplinary groups studying the molecular mechanisms by which genetic information is expressed and regulated to yield diverse biological systems and phenotypes. We are involved in many national and international collaborative research initiatives, developing and deploying cutting edge, genome-wide approaches to systematically dissect and model complex processes going from genotype to phenotype, including fundamental aspects of genome regulation. The rich diversity and research synergy within the department creates a very vibrant and supportive environment within an international community.

Your role

The successful candidate, as a Communications and Project Officer, is expected to support Eileen Furlong in organisation and dissemination of research involving (but not limited to) the following tasks:

Scientific writing and organisation:

• Track, collate and prepare periodic reports of department-wide activities, publications, awards and networks;
• Prepare scientific programs for meetings and retreats in co-ordination with the Unit administrator;
• Assistance in staff recruitments – applicant screening, interview scheduling;
• Act as a bridge between researchers and EMBL’s HR/administrative teams, ensuring smooth workflows (experience with Workday is advantageous);
• Scouting, co-preparation and submission of grant applications;
• Administration and management of existing grants together with internal (EMBL grants and finance team) and external (scientific collaborators, grant agencies) partners – including preparation and submission of periodic grant reports.

Communication:

• Co-create scientifically accurate and engaging press releases, news features and website content related to the labs/Unit in co-ordination with EMBL’s communications team;
• Prepare high-level slides (Powerpoint/Keynote) for scientific presentations to diverse audiences (at conferences, corporate and general public engagement lectures);
• Prepare scientific illustrations for use in presentations, research papers etc. (Biorender e.g.);
• Optimize public outreach and the visibility of the Unit via social media (LinkedIn, Facebook, Bluesky);
• Grants, webpages, and press releases.

You have:

• A Ph.D. in Life sciences is required, with postdoctoral research experience in the general area of genomics, which could include single cell genomics, gene regulation, genetic variation or other areas that fit to the research in the Unit;
• Excellent skills in tailoring scientific content for different audiences: specialists (detailed level), collaborators, funders, and generalists (high-level) is essential;
• Proven ability to produce clear, accurate, and persuasive scientific writing, through successful publications and/or experience in grant reporting, grant applications, and periodic scientific/financial reports;
• Outstanding writing and communication skills in English with the ability to communicate complex science in an effective manner to specialists and laymen alike;
• Ability to synthesize scientific activities across labs - synthesizing diverse research activities and concepts into coherent narratives and departmental reports.
• A friendly and emphatic personality to work with staff from different EMBL teams;
• An ability to multi-task and respond to changing priorities in a goal oriented work environment;
• An organized mindset, attention to detail and alertness to deadlines;
• An attitude to learn new skills and self-improve.

You might also have:

• Training and/or demonstrable experience in science communication (oral and/or written);
• Training and/or experience in scientific project management;
• German is not essential, but would be a plus.

Contract length: 3 years (renewable up to 9 years)

Salary: Grade 4 or 5, minimum basic starting salary 3.704,83 €/month (after tax and before 13% deduction to EMBL social security system) plus other social benefits.

Why join us

EMBL is curiosity-driven, community-oriented and international. As an inclusive, equal opportunity employer, we believe that diversity enables us to collaborate more effectively and be innovative in our approaches. We are, therefore, committed to creating an inclusive and flexible culture - one where everyone can realise their full potential and make a positive contribution to our organisation. 

We encourage applications from individuals who can complement our existing team – we believe that success is built on having teams whose backgrounds and personal experiences reflect the diversity of the populations that our science serves. We actively encourage applications from all genders and cultures, ethnic groups and all demographics to help us avoid perpetuating biases and oversights at this transformational point in our people strategy.

Enjoy lots of benefits:

• Financial incentives: Salary free of income tax, Monthly family, child and non-resident allowances, annual salary review, pension scheme, death benefit, long-term care, accident-at-work and unemployment insurances

• Flexible working arrangements

• Private medical insurance for you and your immediate family (including all prescriptions and generous dental & optical cover)

• Generous time off: 30 days annual leave per year, in addition to public holidays

• Relocation package including installation grant (if applicable)

• Campus life: Free shuttle bus (select sites), on-site library, subsidised on-site gym and cafeteria, casual dress code, extensive sports and social club activities (on campus and remotely)

• Family benefits: Kindergarten (Heidelberg), 10 days of child sick leave, generous paid maternity/parental leave and monthly family & child allowances

• Benefits for international newcomers: Visa exemption, education grant for private schooling, financial support to travel back to your home country every second year and a monthly non-resident allowance.

• For detailed information please visit our employee benefits page here

What else you need to know

• International applicants: We recruit internationally and successful candidates are offered visa exemptions. Visit our International Applicants page, to find out more.

• EMBL is a signatory of DORA. Find out how we apply DORA principles to our recruitment and performance assessment processes here.

• Diversity and inclusion: At EMBL, we believe that diverse teams drive innovation and scientific excellence. We encourage applications from candidates of all genders, identities, nationalities and/or any other diverse backgrounds.

• How to apply: To apply please submit a cover letter and a CV through our online system. Applications will close at 23:59 CET on the date shown below. We aim to provide a response within two weeks after the closing date.

Closing Date