Science communication helps citizens weigh options and make decisions; it is essential for enabling citizens and scientists to collaborate on solutions to societal challenges. Moreover, it enriches the lives of many with stories about our shared culture and history and contributes to mutual understanding, engagement, and trust between science and society. NEWS aims to strengthen science communication, in part by bringing together practitioners and experts so they can learn from one another.

NEWS

The National Center of Expertise for Science & Society (NEWS), based on thisaction plan, has recently been launched and is seeking two motivated and experienced mid-career policy advisors. NEWS was recently established to strengthen the connection between science and society and to improve science communication in the Netherlands. Science has become an important part of our society and makes a significant contribution to our well-being, our health, our democracy, our culture, our natural environment, and our economy. That is why it is important that everyone can participate, that all Dutch citizens have sufficient knowledge about science, and that they can engage in discussions about it.

What will you be doing?

As a mid-level advisor, you will contribute ideas and insights to address questions from practitioners, researchers, and policymakers regarding science communication, public engagement, and dialogue. You have experience in (science) communication, which may have been gained in the public sector or at educational levels ranging from vocational to university, and across the humanities, sciences, and social sciences. You will help make NEWS a visible, valued, and service-oriented organization that provides accessible, up-to-date expertise on the process, purpose, impact, and evaluation of science communication. Together with the director and the team, you will strive to achieve NEWS’s strategic goals.

Responsibilities:

You will assist the director in further developing the action plan and contribute ideas on how to adapt, ensure, and refine the strategy.
You advise and support practitioners, researchers, and policymakers on issues related to effective and up-to-date science communication.
You will help draft concrete policy plans and recommendations.
You will help strengthen a network and bring together stakeholders in the field.
Desk and field research: identifying existing policies, gaps in current policies, and the needs and expectations of citizens.

Who are we looking for?

We are seeking ambitious candidates for two positions as mid-level policy advisors. Both candidates who wish to work as freelancers and those who prefer salaried employment are encouraged to apply. For both positions, we are looking for candidates who bring a fresh perspective, as well as expertise, skills, and a network in the fields of (science) communication and (science) policy. Both roles are complementary and together require the following qualities and skills:

You have strong writing skills, are creative, and have experience in external communications and brand positioning.
You have several years of relevant work experience in science communication and/or communication related to applied research, open science, public engagement, and dialogue.
You are uniquely capable of thinking through the practical implications of policy.
You have excellent communication skills, both verbal and written.
You are good at reflecting on your own actions and are open to learning
You're good at building and maintaining networks
You have a knack for connecting with people who aren't very familiar with science

What do we offer?

As a policy advisor at NEWS, you’ll hold a unique new position where you can work with the rest of the team to further shape the organization and take science communication to the next level. There is the prospect of a permanent position, provided that the Minister of Education, Culture, and Science continues to grant the subsidy after 2025. The position is based in Utrecht. We also offer:

A challenging and varied role in a dynamic work environment where you’ll have the opportunity to build something new together with the rest of the team.
The opportunity to make a significant contribution to science and society.
A competitive salary in pay grade 12 under the Central Government Collective Bargaining Agreement
Flexible working hours and the option to work from home part-time, subject to mutual agreement.
Opportunities for personal development and growth.
There is a possibility of a permanent position, provided that the Minister of Education, Culture, and Science continues to provide the subsidy after 2025.
The position is based in Utrecht.

Are you the versatile and ambitious policy advisor we’re looking for? Don’t wait any longer— apply today before September 2! Please note: the position may close early if we find suitable candidates soon, so don’t wait too long to apply!

For more information, please contact Yasemin Onur at Colourful People by phone at 06-21600899 or by email at y.onur@colourfulpeople.nl. Due to the holiday, it is best to communicate via WhatsApp between 3:00 PM and 6:00 PM CET.