Policy Officer – Artificial Intelligence (AI) in Research

The Policy Officer – AI in Research is responsible for supporting co-operation among Science Europe Member Organisations and for developing good practices and advocacy on the impact of AI technologies on funding and performing research organisations, including EU legislative developments. The role requires close collaboration with experts from Science Europe Member Organisations, Science Europe Office staff, and relevant external organisations.

The Association

Science Europe is a membership association of national public research funding and research performing organisations based in European countries. Located in Brussels, the association promotes the collective interests of its Member Organisations through its advocacy work and supports them in their efforts to foster the European Research Area (ERA). With a focus on fundamental science, we contribute to the development of current and future research and innovation policies in the ERA and beyond, engaging with key partners at European and international levels.

The Position

As a Policy Officer you will assume responsibilities relevant to the use of AI tools in various dimensions of research, for example, AI use by researchers, policies governing AI, potential and risks of AI tools for research performing and research funding processes. The role will also address its consequences on other areas of research, i.e. researchers’ careers, publication and communication practices, assessment, proposal preparation.

These activities are carried out in line with the Science Europe Strategy Plan and in the framework of the European Research Area (ERA) policy actions. Reporting to the Secretary General, this is a full-time position that requires the job holder to be based in Belgium.

Working with Science Europe’s Member Organisations, the areas of work include:

• Analysing strategically current trends related to the use of AI in research
• Sharing current trends and good practices related to AI in research processes
• Identifying priority areas of work and advocacy by Science Europe
• Contributing to Science Europe’s publications and policy positions based on the expertise and experiences of Member Organisations

Developing collaborations amongst Member Organisations on specific areas of interest, co-ordinating activities with other Science Europe Working Groups

The responsibilities include:

• Promote Members’ interests in the areas of work indicated above.
• Monitor EU legislative developments that affect research policies and propose strategies and actions for advocacy in line with SE Member Organisations’ interests
• Support the Secretary General to liaise between the General Assembly, Governing Board, and the Office, prepare relevant documents, and assist in the implementation of activities and projects.
• Support co-operation between Member Organisations and implementation of activities with relevant Working Groups and Task Forces as necessary.
• Develop and maintain relationships with officials from European institutions, and from other relevant stakeholders and organisations.
• Co-ordinate activities related to AI in research. Develop advocacy messages, campaigns, and long-term agendas in these work areas.
• Draft or contribute to briefings and reports, policy documents, and other communication materials, such as press releases, press articles, communication campaigns, newsletters, and social media, as determined by Science Europe’s activities.
• Work together with other Office staff to contribute to the overall realisation of the objectives of the organisation.

Qualifications and experience needed

• A minimum of 4–6 years relevant work experience, in research policy or research administration, and/or in thematic areas relevant to research policy topics.
• Education to at least Master’s degree with orientation towards European research affairs. A doctoral degree is an added value.
• Sound background on the uses of AI in research and the potential and risks of AI technologies and their adaption, including transversal effects, e.g. ethical and sustainable AI use, career development, science communication.
• Experience working in a research performing or research funding organisation and a good understanding of an international membership organisation or association.
• In-depth knowledge of the policy-making processes at European and global level.
• Proven capacity in project and event management.
• Experience working with academics and policy makers in a European context.
• Advanced writing and editing skills in English, and capacity to write articles, reports, and policy papers for different audiences.
• Pro-active, flexible, and practical approach to the role.
• Strong analytical thinking and scientific awareness with the ability to interpret and explain policy developments in their own contexts.
• Service-oriented and demonstrated concern for meeting the needs of members in membership organisations.
• Proven capacity to deal with stakeholders and broker common positions.
• Ability to work both in a team and independently, on own initiative.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and work effectively with tight deadlines.
• Strong inter-personal, external networking, and negotiation skills.

What we offer

We offer a 3-year fixed-term contract with the possibility to become permanent, as well as a competitive salary. The salary offered will depend on the qualification level and number of years of relevant experience. We also offer a package of benefits such as meal vouchers, medical and hospital insurance, and group pension plan. 

Please note that Science Europe is established under Belgian law, and that employment is within the Belgian tax and social security system. The job requires being located in Belgium.