Great science deserves great storytelling
At the Center for Inflammation Research (IRC), part of VIB, scientists are advancing our understanding of inflammation and its role in human health and disease. To help share these discoveries with the world, we are looking for a Communications Officer with a passion for life sciences and science communication.
In this role, you are the communication link between IRC and the VIB headquarters Communications team. You work closely with scientists, Principal Investigators, and colleagues across VIB to translate cutting-edge research into engaging stories, strengthen the visibility of the Center, and support strategic communication initiatives that contribute to the impact of our science.
Based at our Center in Ghent, you will combine scientific storytelling, stakeholder engagement, digital communication, and strategic communications in a highly international research environment. You will join a diverse administrative team where colleagues bring expertise in different domains and work closely together to support the Center's scientific mission.
What you will do
- Develop and implement the Center's communication activities in alignment with VIB's communication strategy.
- Contribute to VIB-wide communication projects, campaigns, and stories.
- Identify impactful stories together with scientists and Principal Investigators and collaborate with the HQ Communications team to maximize their visibility.
- Translate scientific discoveries and achievements into clear, engaging content for a broad range of audiences.
- Create and manage content for digital communication channels, including the website, social media, newsletters, and press materials.
- Support scientific events, outreach activities, and stakeholder engagement initiatives.
What we are looking for
- A genuine interest in life sciences and the ability to engage confidently with researchers and scientific topics.
- Ability to build trusted relationships with scientists, colleagues and external stakeholders.
- A collaborative attitude and enthusiasm for working in a diverse and international environment.
- A proactive, flexible and solution-oriented mindset.
- Excellent written and spoken communication skills in Dutch and English.
- Strong storytelling skills and the ability to translate complex scientific information into clear and engaging content for different audiences.
- Strong organizational and project management skills, with the ability to manage multiple priorities.
- Experience with content creation, digital communication and social media.
- Master's degree and a minimum of 2-3 years of work experience; a background in life sciences is considered an asset.
- Eagerness to learn, develop and contribute to the growth and visibility of the Center.
Location
VIB-UGent Center for Inflammation Research (IRC)
Tech Lane Ghent Science Park – Zwijnaarde Ghent, Belgium
What we offer
- A unique opportunity to contribute to the communication of world-class biomedical research.
- Close collaboration with internationally recognized scientists.
- A dynamic and supportive working environment.
- Competitive salary and attractive benefits package, including bicycle leasing.
- Hybrid working and attention to work-life balance.
- Full-time position (80% employment can be discussed).
