jobber

Grade:4, 5 or 6 depending on qualifications and experience
EMBL site:EMBL Heidelberg
Commencing date: As soon as possible after closing date
Job description:The Communications Officer will join the communications team at EMBL Heidelberg which is responsible for the international communication and outreach activities of the Laboratory. The role has responsibilities that are two-fold. With respect to the media the successful candidate will be responsible for all international media activities; and to a lesser extent, the post holder will contribute to outreach activities such as the publication of publicity material, and the organisation of outreach events.

Key responsibilities will include:

*researching, writing and distributing press releases about scientific discoveries

*liaising with the media on an everyday basis and answering journalist’s inquiries

*arranging media interviews, news briefings and press visits

*liaising with scientists for gathering information, advise EMBL staff in media relations

*developing programmes to target the media with new and evolving media

*collating and analysing media coverage, maintaining and updating the media database writing and editing articles for EMBL publicity material such as in-house magazines and the annual report; devising and coordinating photography and graphic design

*organising outreach events including exhibitions and open days and represent the EMBL internationally

*liaising with European media colleagues and organisations internationally

Qualifications and experience: A degree in the life sciences and first experience in communications or media work are required. Applicants should have excellent spoken and written English skills, and specific skills in writing press releases and articles/stories. The successful candidate will be capable of communicating complex scientific ideas to different target audiences, ranging from scientists to the general public. As well as being able to work independently, candidates should have strong interpersonal skills, the ability to communicate clearly and effectively at all levels and be able to work effectively as a member of the international communication team at EMBL.
Contract:An initial contract of 3 years will be offered to the successful candidate. This can be renewed, depending on circumstances at the time of the review.
Closing date: 6 September 2009

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

Please note that EMBL does not return CVs or attached documents to applicants.

To apply, please email a cover letter, CV (in English) and contact information of three professional references quoting PJUK in the subject line, to application@embl.de.

General enquiries may be sent to jobs@embl.de or to the following address:

EMBL, Personnel, Postfach 10.2209, 69012 Heidelberg, Germany