International Centre for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology ICGEB
VACANCY NOTICE PU/TS/01-17
The International Centre for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (ICGEB), established in 1987, is an
international, intergovernmental organization conceived as a Centre of excellence for research and
training with special regard to the needs of the developing world. The Centre conducts innovative
research in life sciences and strengthens the research capability of its over 60 Member States through
training, funding programs and advisory services. Located in Trieste (Italy), New Delhi (India) and Cape
Town (South Africa), and in collaboration with over 40 Affiliated Centers worldwide, the three ICGEB
Laboratories provide a scientific and educational environment of the highest international standards.
Further information available at http://www.icgeb.org/home.html
The ICGEB invites applications for the post of Chief, External Relations
POST TITLE: Chief, External Relations
DUTY STATION: Trieste
DATE REQUIRED: As soon as possible
DURATION: Initial period of one year, with possibility of extension for five years
subject to performance
LEVEL: P3/P4 depending on experience and qualifications
DUTIES: Under the general supervision and guidance of the Director-General, the
Chief, External Relations will:
Serve as focal point for ICGEB external relations:
• Elaborate, implement and monitor the strategy to outreach relevant stakeholders, partners,
institutions and international organisation in Europe and worldwide. The strategy will be designed
in coordination with the Director-General and Senior Management, and will address needs and
requirements of ICGEB Member States and other countries;
• Establish and maintain formal contacts with Governments of member and non-member States, in
charge of all issues related to membership and potential membership in the Centre;
• Support the Director General and Senior Management in the international relations aiming at the
fulfillment of ICGEB Statutory mission and, in particular, assisting partner countries (ICGEB
Member States and potential Members) in strengthening their scientific and technological
capabilities in the field of molecular genetics and biotechnology fostering international
cooperation;
• Advise and assist the Director-General in establishing co-operation with, and potential support of,
the UN and other international organizations, including the EU, to enhance their understanding of
ICGEB and influence research policies of relevance to the ICGEB fields of expertise;
• Manage awareness activities addressing international stakeholders;
• Monitor developments in EU and national science policies that may affect the work of ICGEB and
define actions and priorities for strategic intervention and engagement;
• Serve as Secretary of the Board of Governors and the Council of Scientific Advisers of the
ICGEB;
• In coordination with the Director-General, organise and coordinate the meetings of the Board of
Governors and of its subsidiary organs, including the Council of Scientific Advisers; provide
guidance to the Chairman of the Board and to the Director-General in respect of these meetings;
supervise preparation of documentation for these meeting and ensure its timely distribution to
Member States;
• Represent ICGEB in international events, when required;
• Coordinate international meetings, delegations and events and ensure that positive relationships
are maintained in alignment with the overall strategic objectives set by the Director-General and
the Board;
• Other related duties as may be required by the Director-General.
QUALIFICATIONS: Advanced university degree (Masterʼs degree or equivalent) in international
relations, political or social sciences or related fields. At least 7 years work experience in the field of
external relations (previous experience of external relations in the scientific sector in the European Union
or United Nations systems is an asset).
The position requires outstanding organizational skills, good attention to details, excellent communication
and interpersonal skills, ability to work both independently and as a part of a team, experience in multistakeholder
and multidisciplinary environment and commitment to meet deadlines. Candidates should
have a good knowledge of the United Nations Common System, of the European Commission legal and
financial framework and of the European Union decision-making process, in particular those aspects
related to collaboration with International Organizations.
COMPETENCIES: Strategic thinking, leadership ability with determination to succeed; strong and
relevant network of contacts within the international and European scientific sector, in particular with the
EU Institutions and with other International Organizations. Experience of setting and achieving strategic
objectives, strong team player and confident decision maker; strong networking, public relations and
relationship building skills; ability to establish and maintain cooperative relationships with staff and
management at all levels, both inside and outside the organization; ability to take a constructive
approach to resolution of problems in an efficient and timely manner; integrity and probity; utmost
discretion in handling sensitive and confidential matters; ability to work efficiently and effectively under
pressure; availability to travel internationally.
LANGUAGES: English and Italian, other UN languages an asset.
APPLICATION DEADLINE: May 31, 2017
Candidates should submit their full CV by completing the ICGEBʼs Personal History Form available
online at: http://www.icgeb.org/vacancies.html, together with a cover letter outlining motivation for
application and full contact details of at least three referees.
Applications should be addressed to HR & Personnel Unit, ICGEB, Padriciano 99, 34149 Trieste, Italy Email:
personnel@icgeb.org, quoting reference PU/TS/01-17