Who said scientists don´t have a place in the European Institutions? In an important development, the European Research Council Executive Agency (ERCEA) is inviting qualified candidates to express their interest in the role of Research Programme Agent in Life Sciences. This position presents a significant opportunity to contribute to the shaping of frontier research in Europe.

ERCEA is looking for an experienced individual. This role involves coordinating ERC Panel Teams in the domain of Life Sciences, spanning various areas of research from Molecules of Life to Biotechnology and Biosystems Engineering.

What will be the key Responsibilities?

Coordinate evaluations, lead the peer-review process, and contribute to program development. As a Research Programme Agent, you guide ERC LS Panel Teams, influencing the course of scientific exploration.

Evaluate project implementation, analyze ERC portfolios, and shape impactful strategies. Your insights drive progress and innovation in Life Sciences.

Present ERC programs, contribute to impactful publications, and share best practices. As an External Communications Expert, shape the narrative and foster collaboration. In addition, the role involves external communication, where the individual will be expected to present ERC program and project results at workshops, seminars, conferences, and other public events.

ERCEA has been very nice in publishing a detailed job description (left image), pay attention to it as it will be key in two different steps of the process. Also Annex I will be a good inspiration to see where your experience fits on those panels.

How many spots are available?

A reserve list of approximately 25 candidates will be issued after the selection process.

What are the criteria to be a candidate?

The general criteria, as usual: Enjoy full rights as a citizen of a Member State of the EU, meet any obligations under national laws on military service, and meet the character requirements for the duties concerned.

Qualifications

Research qualification at PhD level PLUS two further years of professional experience related to research in any of the areas covered by the nine ERC panels of the Life Sciences domain

OR

Five years of professional experience in conducting research in any of the areas covered by the nine ERC Panels of the Life Sciences domain.

Knowledge of languages

Excellent knowledge of English: spoken and written skills equivalent to level C1 or higher level for working purposes

What will be the steps of the selection process?

Timeline:

• The whole process takes several months, it will depends on the final number of applications from which the initial 90 candidates will be selected to go through the process.
• The first shortlists will be about 90 candidates aligning with agency needs based on
• With a particular condition, the set appointment schedules by ERCEA are non-negotiable. Be sure your agenda is a bit flexible!

Testing Phase:

• Shortlisted candidates undergo a written test. What kind of test? you can expect a scenario with info in line with the duties of the position (see image above) in a limited time (90-120 min). Key factors will be time management and to know how to manage a project and handle a selection of proposals. A good read to the PM2 methodology can be useful and ERC advice on project management also.
• Approximately 50 highest scorers (twice the nunmber of the position seek, 25 positions) proceed to interviews.

Interview and Reserve List:

• Once you have been invited to the interview the written test results don’t impact interview assessments, meaning you just need an invitation to the interview, then forget it and concentrate on this part.
• Successful 25 interviewees join a Reserve List for two years (extendable, usually until it runs out of candidates).

How to apply?

Interested candidates are encouraged to download the Application Form from the ERC website (https://europa.eu/!mjtcF9) and submit it along with a maximum 2-page CV in PDF format to ERC-SELECTION@ec.europa.eu by January 31, 2024, 12:00 (midday) Brussels time.

If the application has been submitted successfully, candidates will receive a confirmation e-mail within two working days (if you don’t get it, contact the organisers, so don’t submit your application the last day!). Applications received after the deadline cannot be taken into account, and the ERCEA cannot be held responsible for any delay. In the case of multiple submissions, only the latest valid and complete application will be considered.

Steps for application

1	Complete the Application Form electronically and in English. WORK EXPERIENCE – tip : describe in line with the duties describe in the pictures above this post. You need to show the board how your work experience fits their needs. Also your experience in research in the areas of this position (annex I of the notice and right picture above)
2	Save the completed Application Form as follows: «FAMILY NAME – ERCEA-TA-221-2023 – Application Form» The application can only be taken into consideration if the form is SAVED – it should not be printed in pdf format nor scanned!
3	Send the completed Application Form and a max. 2-paged CV to: ERC-SELECTION@ec.europa.eu by 31 January 2024 at 12:00 (midday) Brussels time. [better if you do a couple of days before, just in case] In the subject of the email, please mention: «FAMILY NAME – ERCEA/TA/221/2023 – Application Form

Seize the Opportunity

This isn’t just a job; it’s an opportunity to play a crucial role in advancing Life Sciences research. If you meet the criteria and are looking for a career move that aligns with your expertise, consider applying and becoming part of the ERCEA community.

Remember: Applications must be submitted by January 31, 2024, 12:00 (midday) Brussels time.

Good luck and good work!!