At CERN, the European Organization for Nuclear Research, physicists and engineers are probing the fundamental structure of the universe. Using the world's largest and most complex scientific instruments, they study the basic constituents of matter - fundamental particles that are made to collide together at close to the speed of light. The process gives physicists clues about how particles interact, and provides insights into the fundamental laws of nature. Find out more on http://home.cern.

Introduction

The Open Quantum Institute (OQI) is a multilateral governance initiative that promotes global and inclusive access to quantum computing and the development of applications for the benefit of humanity. As a novel science diplomacy instrument, it brings together research, diplomacy, private sector and philanthropy stakeholders. The OQI is hosted by CERN within the IT Department during its pilot phase (2024-2026). Find out more on https://oqi.cern/.

Diversity has been an integral part of CERN's mission since its foundation and is an established value of the Organization.

Functions

As SDG Community Engagement Lead, you will drive the goal of accelerating the development and uptake of technology applications for positive societal impact within the IT department and with specific focus in the framework of the Open Quantum Initiative. You will establish relations with UN organisations,  NGOs and other international organizations in order to raise interest in emerging technologies such as quantum computing, identify the relevant global challenges for the organizations, encourage the support, participation in the development and adoption of technologies geared towards achieving the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). You will focus on the development and oversight of use cases within the OQI and be responsible of spearheading the IT Department’s strategy of societal impact by boosting the awareness of, and fostering the collaboration around, IT’s open technologies.

The selected candidate will contribute to:

• Foster relationship building with existing and new relevant partners in the context of IT’s wider outreach and engagement strategy.
• Raise awareness about OQI’s mission, build data and computational literacy, as well as quantum literacy among UN organisation and NGO interlocutors.
• Collaborate with SDG owners to identify pertinent global challenges, prioritizing them based on their significance in terms of SDGs and computational relevance.
• Be the relay with UN organisations and NGOs, foster collaboration and timely onboarding of relevant experts to participate in OQI use case development, to validate use case problems and to assess the potential impact, in terms of SDGs.
• Scout, curate and expand or deepen the engagement of relevant UN organisations and NGOs into the OQI community.

Master's degree or PhD or equivalent relevant experience in the field of business, public policy, science and technology, or other fields relevant for understanding and promoting the OQI's engagement work or a related field.

Experience:

• Extensive proven professional experience engaging with UN organisations and large NGOs. Experience in matrix organizations is an advantage, ideally across private and public sectors.
• Extensive networks with UN organisations and large NGOs. A knowledge of the international Geneva ecosystem would be a plus.
• Proven track record in results-driven stakeholder engagement and value proposition development tailored to various types of stakeholders. Multidisciplinary knowledge, with interest and curiosity in cutting edge technology and its societal impact.
• Experience in AI and/or quantum computing is a plus.

Technical competencies:

• Stakeholder relationship management
• Project management
• Organisation, planning and control

Behavioural competencies:

• Creating vision and strategic partnerships: creating shared interests and promoting contact and collaboration with key external partners.
• Leading with strength and credibility: acting as role model and leading by example; using power and/or position in the interests of all.
• Building relationships: showing courtesy and consideration in dealings with others.
• Communicating effectively: expressing opinions, ideas and suggestions with conviction and in a logical/structured manner; keeping to the point.
• Achieving results: delivering high quality work on time and fulfilling expectations.

Language skills:

Spoken and written English: ability to understand and speak the language in professional contexts. Ability to draw-up technical specifications and/or scientific reports and to make oral presentations. French language will be an asset.

Eligibility and closing date:

Diversity has been an integral part of CERN's mission since its foundation and is an established value of the Organization. Employing a diverse workforce is central to our success. We welcome applications from all Member States and Associate Member States.

This vacancy will be filled as soon as possible, and applications should normally reach us no later than 05.06.2024.

Employment Conditions

Contract type: Limited duration contract (3 years). Subject to certain conditions, holders of limited-duration contracts may apply for an indefinite position.

These functions require:

• Work during nights, Sundays and official holidays, when required by the needs of the Organization.

Job grade: 6-7

Job reference: IT-GOV-CEO-2024-63-LD

Benchmark Job Title: Communications/Public Relations /External Relations Professional