Since the introduction of the framework programmes for Research & Development (R&D) in the 1980s, the EU has gradually become a powerful player with regard to research funding. Much of the research at Erasmus University Rotterdam (EUR) is of an interdisciplinary and international nature and many projects are co-funded by the R&D Framework Programme of the EU, Horizon 2020. On average, two H2020 proposals are submitted by the EUR every week (or more than 8000 pages of proposal text annually). To enhance the coherence of the overall image of the EUR in Brussels and to support its researchers, the EUR is looking for an EU Liaison Officer.

Main tasks
Main tasks of the Liaison Officer include detecting developments in EU R&D policy at an early stage, informing researchers and support staff at the EUR about relevant developments and proactively establishing and maintaining relations with relevant policy officers within the European Commission, Members of European Parliament, researchers and other relevant bodies such as Neth-ER. Moreover, given the interdisciplinary nature of both research at the EUR and research in European consortia, detecting and creating opportunities for coalitions is essential to be successful in this role. For this, the Liaison Officer needs a strong feeling with EUR research and be able to enthuse researchers. Finally, the Liaison Officer should also possess a working knowledge of other organizations holding a similar or complementary position as the EUR. As Liaison Officer, you will be based in Rotterdam, but also travel to Brussels frequently.

Required experience and skills
• University education, at least Master degree;
• Interested in research, and specifically research in the domain of Social Sciences and Humanities;
• Strong analytical skills and ability to find connections at an abstract level, to draw out the essential points from complex information, find new connections and integrate ideas;
• Strong environmental awareness and well informed about social and political developments, both in- and outside the university and able to operate strategically;
• Strong collaborating & networking skills;
• Proactive orientation;
• Fluent in Dutch and English, both spoken and written (C1 Common European Framework);
• At least 3 years of working experience in a similar position.

Internationally-oriented and varied work within an enthusiastic team, with attractive fringe benefits in accordance with the Collective Labour Agreement for Dutch Universities (CAO-NU). We offer a full-time contract, initially for two years with the option for extension if requirements are met. Your remuneration will depend on the position, and within that your specific knowledge and experience, and will be calculated on the basis of full-time salary ranging between € 4.294 and € 5.978 gross per month (salary scale 12-13, CAO NU ). Erasmus University Rotterdam offers attractive terms of employment, including a holiday allowance of 8%, a year-end payment of 8.3% and 41 holidays per year based on a full-time appointment. In addition, EUR takes part in the ABP pension scheme, and we also offer partially paid parental leave. Moreover, EUR staff members are allowed to make use of the EUR facilities, including the Erasmus Sports Centre and the University Library.

The Erasmus University (EUR), named after Rotterdam-born humanist and theologian Erasmus, is a research university with a strong international orientation and a pronounced social focus, both in its education and research activities. On the lively, modern campus, more than 28.000 students and scholars of more than 100 nationalities are constantly encouraged to develop their talents and meet their ambition. Our more than 2.700 scientists and employees work together with all our students to solve challenges faced by global society, drawing their inspiration from the consistently dynamic and cosmopolitan city of Rotterdam. The academic education offered at our faculties is intensive, engaging and strongly focused on practical application. We increasingly perform our research in multidisciplinary teams, which are closely interwoven with international networks. In terms of research impact and the quality of its degree programmes, EUR can compete with the foremost universities in Europe, which is reflected in its consistent top-100 position in most major universities rankings. Erasmus University Rotterdam’s key values are daring, curiosity, social involvement, breaking new ground and striving for success.

At Erasmus University Rotterdam, the Programme Research Services is currently developing a coherent set of harmonized services across the university. During the preparation and execution of research projects, these services include support concerning legal issues, support to obtain grants, research intelligence and data management among others. For each type of services communities of practice exist, consisting of support staff from relevant central offices and the various schools at the EUR. The communities are instrumental in the specification, implementation and adoption of new services. The Liaison Officer will mainly support the community Grant Support.