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Principal Scientist on Biocities

Rome, Lazio, ItalyBiocities Facility

Job description

The European Forest Institute

is now seeking a

Principal Scientist on Biocities


The European Forest Institute (EFI) is an international organisation with 30 member countries and around 130 associate and affiliate member organisations. EFI undertakes forest research and policy support at pan European and global level, with headquarters located in Joensuu, Finland. EFI has offices in Barcelona, Bonn, Rome and Brussels. The Institute has app. 120 staff members and has an annual turnover of app. 18 million Euros. Further information about the organisation is available at www.efi.int. 


The Biocities facility which opened in Rome, Italy during 2022 will support a science-informed dialogue on the potential of the circular bioeconomy concept, particularly based on forest-based solutions, for rethinking and creating sustainable, healthy and resilient cities. The Facility will develop a new and holistic conceptual framework for the use of green infrastructures and biobased solutions in urban environments.


EFI is seeking a Principal Scientist to lead EFI’s research and policy support activities related to Biocities.


Key responsibilities will include:

  • Lead the development of the Biocities research topics and team.
  • Fundraise, initiate, and coordinate new research projects.
  • Engage in international and national networking.
  • Publish research findings in both academic journals and policy and practice-oriented media.
  • Communicate with donors, stakeholders and media.
  • Network within EFI member organizations and other stakeholders.


Duty station

The employee will be based at the EFI’s Office in Rome, Italy.


Employment conditions

EFI offers competitive benefits and salary package. This is a fixed term appointment of five years with the possibility for an extension.


This position offers a challenging opportunity to work within a stimulating international environment in one of the Institute’s senior positions.


Interested candidates are requested to send (in English) a CV including copies of academic degree certificates with a motivation letter by 10th April 2023, using our online application form.


For more information about the post, please contact Giuseppe Scarascia-Mugnozza, Head of Biocities Facility at: giuseppe.scarascia@efi.int


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


Please note that only candidates that have been shortlisted for interview will be contacted.

Job requirements

Qualifications:

  • PhD degree in relevant field
  • At least 8 years of relevant work experience.
  • Ability to lead, manage and motivate an international research team.
  • Proven record in fundraising, in particular EC/EU funded projects.
  • Experience of initiating and leading interdisciplinary and international research consortia.
  • Experience of policy support activities and stakeholder engagement.
  • Established track-record of publishing in peer-reviewed scientific journals.
  • Strong project management skills.
  • Excellent communications and presentation skills.
  • Excellent spoken and written skills in English are essential. Working knowledge of Italian is an asset.