Created in 2005 by the Generalitat de Catalunya (Government of Catalonia) and the University of Barcelona, IRB Barcelona is a Severo Ochoa Centre of Excellence—a seal that was awarded in 2011.

The institute is devoted to conducting research of excellence in biomedicine and to transferring results to clinical practice, thus improving people’s quality of life, while simultaneously promoting the training of outstanding researchers, technology transfer, and public communication of science. Its 29 laboratories and seven core facilities address basic questions in biology and are orientated to diseases such as cancer, metastasis, Alzheimer’s, diabetes, and rare conditions.

IRB Barcelona is an international centre that hosts 500 members and 45 nationalities. It is located in the Barcelona Science Park. IRB Barcelona forms part of the Barcelona Institute of Science and Technology (BIST) and the “Xarxa de Centres de Recerca de Catalunya” (CERCA).

Your Role & Our Team

IRB Barcelona is seeking a Science Education and Outreach Officer, to develop and deliver scientific education and outreach programmes, activities, and communication materials based on the research conducted at the Institute. Additionally, the officer will be responsible for developing and communicating the Institute’s impact strategy.

The selected candidate will join the Fundraising, Communication & Marketing (FUNCOM) Unit, whose mandate includes promoting public awareness of biomedical research and its impact on society, and developing and contributing to effective education programmes to ensure the next generation of talented researchers in the biomedical sciences.

Key Responsibilities

• Design and implement the Institute’s overall strategy for outreach and education activities, generating new initiatives to engage non-specialised audience of all ages.
• Coordinate and develop existing programmes and activities, such as the “Crazy About Biomedicine” programme, the Artist-In-Residence programme, the annual Open Day, workshops for high-school science teachers, and a range of ongoing outreach activities.
• Develop and create digital science communication content to support a social media-based public engagement strategy.
• Define and implement strategies to assess, communicate, and maximise the Institute’s scientific and societal impact by developing narratives and reports that ensure visibility across key stakeholders and the public.
• Coordinate funding applications to various public and private agencies to provide continuity and expand outreach and education activities.
• Contribute and support communication activities within the FUNCOM Unit when needed.
• Collaborate with the Barcelona Science Park’s Research in Society Programme and coordinate the participation of IRB Barcelona scientists in these activities.

This role requires occasional weekend work for key outreach programmes such as Crazy About Biomedicine, Open Day, and teacher workshops. Any weekend hours worked will be compensated with a corresponding reduction in weekday hours.

You have

• 2-3 years’ experience in devising and delivering outreach and education activities.
• Bachelor’s degree, Master’s degree, in natural sciences and hands-on research, are highly valued.
• Strong communication, writing and presentation skills.
• Ability to produce engaging and innovative content.
• Social media content creation and video editing skills.
• Knowledge of publishing techniques for web and print.
• Strong planning and organisational skills with the ability to work independently, being able to prioritize workload and handle multiple tasks.
• Solid command of written and spoken English, Spanish and Catalan.
• Ability to work effectively in a team.

You might also have

• Proven experience in successfully applying for grants.
• A relevant qualification in science communication.
• A PhD degree in the natural sciences, preferably in the life sciences.

WORKING CONDITIONS & ENTITLEMENTS:

• Working conditions: Permanent Contract. Employed in compliance with Spanish legislation and regulations under a full-time contract. Employees receive the benefits of the Spanish Social Security system covering sickness, maternity/paternity leaves and injuries at work. 
• International Environment: The opportunity to join a prestigious international research institution and become a member of our administration team.
• Estimated annual gross salary: Salary commensurate with experience and qualifications.
• Continuous training in a high-quality environment.

HOW TO APPLY & SELECTION PROCESS:

Applications should include a Full CV and a Motivation letter. 

Including a video explaining a scientific concept or process to a non-specialized audience in the application will be highly valued. Links to pre-existing videos are also accepted.

• Deadline for applications: 27/03/2025 (If no suitable candidate is found, the deadline will be extended) 
• Number of positions available: 1
• Selection process:
  • Pre-selection: Will be based on CV, motivation letter & experience.
  • Interviews: Short-listed candidates will be interviewed.
  • Job offer: Will be sent to the successful candidate after the interview. 

Note: The strengths and weaknesses of the applications will be provided upon request.