The University of Twente’s research focuses on Science for Science, but it is also socially relevant and oriented towards society: Science for Industry and Society. To this end, a portion of the university’s research is planned on the basis of consultations with societal stakeholders, including industry and government bodies. Achieving scientific and societal breakthroughs increasingly requires input from multiple disciplines and a combination of the technical and social sciences: High Tech, Human Touch.

Do you have a passion for research, innovation and policy? We are seeking a Senior Policy Officer for the Strategy and Policy department's Research and Knowledge Transfer cluster. 

Description
The Research and Knowledge Transfer cluster advises and develops policy and strategy, oversees and implements projects, and maintains contacts and networks in the field of research, knowledge transfer and innovation. We do this in close coordination with the Executive Board, deans, scientific directors and researchers. We also work closely with the other clusters in Strategy and Policy (such as Education, Internationalization, or Policy Monitoring), with the other service departments (such as Financial and Economic Affairs, Human Resources, or Strategic Business Development), and with external partners (such as public/private actors, regional and national tiers of government, or 4TU). As Senior Policy Officer, you will be responsible for drafting policy proposals and advice, in which you will seek to reflect and incorporate national and international developments. You will carry out projects independently and you will be responsible for procedure and implementation. You will prepare for meetings, monitor follow-up actions, and ensure administrative coordination. You will also represent the university at meetings with national and international knowledge institutes and organizations, such as the Association of Universities in the Netherlands (VSNU).

Your tasks and focus areas will be in the field of research and strategic relationships and networks. Your roles will include initiator, intermediary and liaison.

We are looking for a colleague who:

• holds a degree from a university, preferably a PhD or doctorate;
• has experience in the field of higher education and research and is aware of current national and international developments;
• has a clear vision for research and knowledge transfer policy in higher education and experience in designing and implementing this vision in coordination with other support domains;
• is able to translate policy objectives into practical implementation;
• has demonstrable experience in project management;
• is able to provide leadership and achieve results in a complex administrative setting and within intricate decision-making structures, and has a good eye for the various interests at stake;
• is proactive and able to cope well with stress;
• has excellent oral and written communication skills, both in Dutch and in English. 

Application and information
For information about this vacancy please contact drs. F.B.J.M. Bouwens, head of the Research & Knowledge Transfer department (phone +31-53-489 1089), email f.b.j.m.bouwens@utwente.nl.

A reference check or an assessment can be part of the procedure.

Please submit your application before 7 May 2018 by filling in the form including a motivation letter and current CV (choose ‘apply now’ below).

We offer a challenging full-time position in an inspiring multidisciplinary and international environment. The successful candidate will be employed for the duration of 1 year and with the prospect of a continuation of the contract.

Your gross monthly salary will be € 5.405,- maximum, depending on your background and relevant experience. This salary is according to scale 12 of the Collective Labour Agreement for Dutch Universities. Additionally, the University of Twente provides excellent facilities for professional and personal development, an 8% holiday allowance, and an 8,3% end of year bonus.

The University of Twente. We stand for life sciences and technology. High tech and human touch. Education and research that matter. New technology which drives change, innovation and progress in society. The University of Twente is the only campus university in the Netherlands; divided over five faculties we provide more than fifty educational programmes. The University of Twente has a strong focus on personal development and talented researchers are given scope for carrying out pioneering research.

We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status or disability status. Because of our diversity values we do particularly support women to apply.