Program Coordinator (M/F/D) Foreign Relations/Science, Tech and Innovation Policy

Since its foundation in 2013, the Mercator Institute of China Studies (MERICS) has established itself as the leading European think tank on China. Employing more than 35 full-time staff from all over Europe, MERICS is currently the largest European institute focusing solely on analysing contemporary China. With its headquarters in Berlin and an office in Brussels, the institute is regularly at the forefront of European and international public and expert debates on China.  

MERICS has a strong track record in delivering policy-relevant analysis on China to European stakeholders, including on European resilience to China’s political and economic pressure, the global governance of frontier technologies and realms, China’s efforts to promote its digital technology in the Global South and the impacts of China’s military modernization. Pursuing these and related research workstreams involve a growing number and range of stakeholders, projects and deliverables. To provide crosscutting coordination, MERICS seeks to fill as soon as possible the following position:  

Program Coordinator (m/f/d)
Foreign Relations / Science, Tech and Innovation Policy

In this role, you will be part of both the Foreign Relations team and the Science, Technology and Innovation team, working closely with the Heads of Program and under the overall direction of the institute’s Executive Team. 

Responsibilities

• Support the research teams in formulating and delivering their research program 
• Support the conceptualization, development and implementation of externally funded projects, including by coordinating with the Project Development, External Relations and Communications/Publications teams at MERICS   
• Support the fundraising efforts of the program and the development of new fundraising prospects   
• Develop strategies to increase the visibility and impact of MERICS’ work with key stakeholders 
• Coordinate and support briefings, consultations, workshops, seminars and conferences
• Provide analytical summaries of events and current affairs in relevant areas
• Support the Heads of Program in the general administration of the program 
• Build and maintain networks and represent MERICS externally 

Requirements

• Experience with program or project management
• Native or near-native command of German and English
• Highly IT proficient including MS Office, especially Excel
• Interest in China’s foreign relations and science, technology and innovation policy
• Ability to multi-task, work towards deadlines and manage challenging situations
• A basic understanding of international relations and research and innovation, or the willingness to obtain this

Desired skills

• Proven ability to maintain and develop a network of contacts in the policymaking community
• A Bachelor or (preferred) Master’s degree in international affairs, EU affairs, public policy, or political sciences, or equivalent
• Demonstrable knowledge or research experience on China’s foreign relations or science, technology and innovation, or a closely related topic
• Familiarity with digital tools for project management, budgeting, billing, timekeeping, relationship with partners and stakeholder management
• Experience in a fast-paced international environment

MERICS offers a flexible and stimulating work environment in a dynamic, multi-disciplinary, and international team. The position will be based in Berlin, with a competitive salary (commensurate with experience and qualifications) and excellent benefits.

This is a full-time position. You will be hired initially on a two-year contract, with a probationary period of six months and a commitment to make your position permanent.

If you are interested in becoming part of our team, please submit your application by February 14, 2025, in one PDF document containing a motivation letter and CV. 

Your application should be addressed to MERICS Director Policy and European Affairs Abigaël Vasselier and Head of Science, Technology and Innovation program Jeroen Groenewegen-Lau and sent by e-mail to Ms Eleonora Franzo at [email protected].