Junior Expert

The European Forest Institute

is seeking a

Junior Expert

The European Forest Institute (EFI) is an international organisation with 30 member countries and around 130 member organisations. EFI undertakes policy support and forest research at pan-European and global levels. EFI is headquartered in Joensuu, Finland. EFI has its other main offices in Barcelona, Bonn, and Rome. Further information about the organisation is available at www.efi.int.

EFI’s Bioeconomy Programme is seeking a Junior Expert to join its Forest Innovation for Impact Team.

Role Overview:

The Junior Expert will support activities aimed at promoting sustainable forest-based bioeconomy, encouraging innovation, and facilitating knowledge exchange. Duties will include event organisation, matchmaking, developing open innovation challenges, and supporting the analysis of forest-related policies.

Key Responsibilities will include:

Innovation Activities:

• Support the organization of open innovation activities, such as matchmaking events, innovation challenges, or knowledge transfer workshops (both online and in-person).

• Support stakeholder engagement activities, and the animation of forest innovation ecosystems.

• Analyze forest innovation related policies, such as bio-based public procurement programmes.

Event Management:

• Assist in planning and implementing workshops and conferences.

• Handle speaker management, communications, and logistical arrangements for events.

Networking & Communications:

• Support communication activities related to EFI’s innovation efforts.

• Assist in networking and raising awareness about the Bioeconomy Programme.

Project Proposal and Fundraising Support:

• Help prepare European project proposals and contribute to fundraising activities.

Location and Travel:

The position is based at EFI Headquarters in Joensuu, Finland. Other EFI locations can be considered. The position will require occasional travel within Europe.

Employment Details:

• Duration: Initial contract of 1 year, with a possibility of extension subject to successful candidates’ performance and attainment of further project funding.

• Start Date:  By end of May 2025.

• Compensation: EFI offers a competitive benefits and salary package.

Application process

Interested candidates are requested to send (in English) a CV including copies of academic degree certificates/diplomas with a motivation letter by 3rd March 2025 23:59 CET, using our online application form.

For more information about the position, please contact Inazio Martinez de Arano: Inazio.martinez@efi.int.

EFI is an equal opportunity employer.  All applications will be treated confidentially.

Educational Background:

• A master’s degree in forestry, environmental sciences, natural resources, wood industry, business & economics, innovation management, or a related field.

Experience:

• At least 2 years of relevant work experience.

• Experience supporting startups or working with the private sector is advantageous.

• Previous involvement in event organisation is a plus.

• Familiarity with international projects, particularly in the fields of forestry and bioeconomy is beneficial.

Skills / knowledge:

• Strong communication, networking, and presentation skills.

• Excellent writing skills.

• Professional proficiency in English, with other EU languages considered an asset.