Global Engagement and Science Diplomacy Lead

We are seeking a strategic and internationally connected professional to lead our global engagement and communications work at the forefront of science diplomacy. This senior-level position offers a unique opportunity to shape and expand the institute’s international partnerships, enhance its global visibility, and foster meaningful collaborations across the science-policy-society interface.

The role

In this role, you will be responsible for designing and implementing institutional engagement strategies with key stakeholders, current and prospective member organizations, and showcasing the institute’s impact, reach, and value proposition. The role is central to advancing the IIASA mission of providing scientific expertise, analysis, and policy-relevant information on pressing global challenges and supporting multilateral science diplomacy.

Main tasks and responsibilities

Represent the Institute in high-level international engagements and build strategic relationships with key stakeholders across government, international organizations, member institutions, academia, and civil society.
Strengthen and retain the Institute’s membership base by engaging proactively with current members, ensuring their needs are met, articulating a compelling and evolving value proposition, and fostering a strong sense of belonging and collaboration within the Institute’s global network.
Expand membership, new strategic partnerships and opportunities by identifying prospective members and collaborators in alignment with the Director General (DG) and Deputy Director General (DDG) regarding targeted strategies for outreach and potential membership.
Lead the coordination and development of a new international Science Diplomacy Center, guiding it from concept to full implementation. Collaborate closely with the DG/DDG to establish a center that will strengthen evidence-informed international cooperation on critical global policy challenges.
Facilitate international scientific collaboration through bilateral agreements, joint research, and researcher exchanges.
Lead and mentor an inclusive, high-performing team, aligning external engagement with institutional goals and values.

Requirements

An advanced degree in a relevant field such as international relations, science policy, public affairs, or a scientific discipline, with demonstrated ability to support scientific efforts or engage in science-related policy. Candidates should also have:

a) a background, experience, or degree in science;

b) a background, experience, or degree in policy, international relations, or diplomacy;

c) or both.

Extensive senior-level experience in international science policy, diplomacy, and multilateral engagement.
Proven ability to build and sustain high-level partnerships across government, international organizations, and research institutions.
Expertise in global scientific collaboration and the science-policy interface.
Demonstrated success in developing and executing strategic plans aligned with institutional objectives.
Strong team leadership skills, with a commitment to fostering an inclusive culture and upholding values of independence and scientific integrity.

Appointment terms

We offer full-time employment, starting with a one-year contract with the intention to extend thereafter.

Eligible applicants wishing to work part-time hours may be considered.

Duties will be carried out at the IIASA premises in Laxenburg, near Vienna in Austria (some travel necessary).

We offer

An international atmosphere and pleasant working environment in a historic market town surrounded by green areas.
A tax-free annual salary in Austria, starting at a negotiable minimum of EUR 98,000 gross, based on qualifications and experience, with deductions only for health insurance and/or social security.

IIASA salaries are:

Not directly comparable with other employers in Austria, due to the unique legal status and privileges granted to IIASA.
Subject to the principle of income aggregation (Progressionsvorbehalt in German).

Other benefits

Educational subsidies for children of school age enrolled in private schools in Austria.
A generous annual leave entitlement.
Relocation allowances and paid home leave for international hires.
The possibility to work up to 100 days per year in home office (within Austria).
Assistance for newcomers to Austria with visa, work and residency permit applications.
Support finding accommodation in Austria.

Further details here.

About IIASA

IIASA is committed to a working environment that promotes equality, diversity, tolerance and inclusion within its workforce. This is reflected in our IIASA core values and the IIASA Gender Equality Plan (GEP). We encourage qualified candidates from all religious, ethnic, and social backgrounds to apply. In the case that candidates are equally qualified, preference will be given to applicants from countries where IIASA has a Member Organization.

Further Information

For further information about this opportunity please contact:

Lion Huijers, Head of Human Resources

For general information about working at IIASA, please contact: recruitment@iiasa.ac.at

Applications

To apply for this opportunity, please submit the following documents in English by clicking on the apply button:

A cover letter outlining your motivation for and fit to the position.
A detailed Curriculum Vitae.
Contact details of three reference givers.

Deadline for receipt of applications: 31 July 2025

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