Knowledge Specialist, Open Science & Research Support

Where will you be working?

As an Open Science and Research Support Specialist, you will contribute to the further development and support of open, responsible, and high-quality research at HKU. You will work at the intersection of policy, support, and knowledge development in the areas of Open Science, research integrity, data management, and knowledge security. In this role, you will work to foster an open, transparent, and well-supported research practice and contribute to strengthening the research infrastructure. You will help researchers better document, share, and raise the visibility of their work. In doing so, you will work closely with researchers, research groups, policy advisors, administrative departments, and partners both within and outside HKU, including the network of art universities (KUO).

What will you be doing?

Your work will focus on the following areas:

Open Science and Research Practice

• Contribute to the further implementation of Open Science at HKU, including in the areas of open publishing (open access), knowledge sharing, and research communication.
• Advising researchers and research groups on responsible and transparent research, including issues related to copyright, intellectual property, and open access publishing.

Research data management and digital infrastructure

• Supporting researchers with research data management (RDM) and contributing to the further development of digital research infrastructure, such as the HKU research repository and the integration with Publinova.
• Collaborating with partners within the network of art colleges (KUO) and initiatives such as Data in the Arts to develop shared infrastructure and resources for practice-oriented research.

Documenting and making research accessible

• Contribute to the systematic documentation and dissemination of creative processes, artistic output, and research findings as knowledge products.
• Contributing ideas on how to make artistic and design-based research more accessible and reproducible for various target audiences.

Knowledge dissemination and research impact

• Strengthening the dissemination of knowledge and science communication regarding research within HKU, including by organizing knowledge-sharing sessions, workshops, and information sessions for researchers and faculty members.
• Contribute to highlighting the impact of practice-based research, for example by participating in the development and application of impact indicators suited to artistic and design-based research.

Research Integrity and Networking

• Supporting scientific integrity through the continued implementation of the Dutch Code of Conduct for Scientific Integrity within HKU.
• Participate in internal and national networks focused on Open Science, knowledge security, and research practices, and apply these developments to HKU’s research environment.

What do you bring to the table?

• A completed master’s degree, for example in information management, cultural studies, science and technology studies, or a related field.
• An interest in practice-based research in art, design, or the creative industries.
• Interest in or knowledge of Open Science, research data management, and research integrity.
• Experience with project-based work and organizing knowledge-sharing sessions or meetings.
• Strong communication skills and the ability to bring together various stakeholders.
• The ability to work independently, strong analytical skills, and organizational talent.

What do we offer?

• An inspiring work environment at an international art college where creativity, technology, and innovation come together.
• A role in which you will contribute to the advancement of research and knowledge sharing within HKU.
• A dynamic work environment with busy periods throughout the academic year, interspersed with a generous number of vacation days.
• A salary in accordance with the collective bargaining agreement for higher professional education (scale 10: minimum €3,826.54 and maximum €5,699.76 for full-time employment)
• Attractive benefits package, including a year-end bonus.
• Additional benefits such as a museum pass, a bicycle plan, and sports facilities.
• Opportunities for professional development and further growth within the organization.

Diversity and Inclusion

We believe it is important that everyone feels welcome and valued. We believe that diversity enhances creativity and strive to bring together the diverse perspectives and experiences from society within our organization. We actively take steps to promote diversity and inclusion and collaborate with organizations that support us in this effort. In addition, we organize (internal) events and gatherings during Keti Koti, International Women’s Day, and participate in Pride Utrecht.

Would you like more information and/or to apply?

You can apply using the "Apply" button below. A cover letter is not required. However, we would like to receive your resume and answers to the questions below so that we can get a good idea of what you bring to the table. The application deadline for this position is April 10, 2026. Interviews will take place in week 17. A potential follow-up interview is scheduled for week 19. If you have any questions, please contact Nina van Huissteden, Acting Head of Research Strengthening and Development, at nina.vanhuissteden@hku.nl.

What appeals to you most about the role of Open Science and Research Support Specialist at HKU?

Briefly describe why this position and the context of practice-based research in the arts are a good fit for you.

What experience do you have with Open Science, research data management, or research infrastructure?

Briefly describe a project, initiative, or role in which you contributed to this.

HKU is exploring ways to better highlight the impact of artistic and design-based research. In your opinion, what would be a good way to demonstrate the impact of this type of research? Briefly describe impact indicators that are appropriate for artistic works and design processes.

The position is being advertised both internally and externally. In the event of equal qualifications, internal candidates will be given priority.

Recruitment agencies are asked to refrain from contacting us regarding this job opening.