Secretary-General

HFSPO is the leading body in support of international collaboration in life sciences research, taking a worldwide approach in the spirit of science without borders.

HFSPO‘s aims are to promote and fund basic research focused on the elucidation of the sophisticated and complex mechanisms of living organisms for the benefit of all humankind, through international cooperation.

HFSPO implements the Human Frontier Science Program (the Program) covering research grant and fellowship funding programs that enable international collaboration in innovative, cutting edge and high-risk research at the frontiers of the life sciences.

The successful applicant will have the opportunity to lead HFSPO into its fourth decade, building further the prestigious reputation of HFSPO. The Secretary-General should be an internationally recognized and respected scientist who:

• has had senior-level scientific administrative experience, preferably related to the implementation of international research programs,
• supports HFSPO's Shared Values and the promotion of frontier research globally,
• demonstrates integrity and cultural sensitivity to lead the secretariat efficiently, as well as representing the Program to external stakeholders.
• is able to efficiently implement the Board’s vision to strengthen this prestigious Program and lead it into the next period of its development by effectively leveraging and managing the resources of the international Secretariat in Strasbourg,
• is an innovative researcher, qualified in a field relevant to the scientific priorities of the Program and who understands the importance of novel approaches for the development of life science research.

The position is full-time. The successful candidate may maintain a scientific appointment at a university or research institute, subject to the approval of the Board and in line with HFSPO’s policy on conflict of interest.

HFSPO conducts all its work in English. The Secretary-General will be based at HFSPO's office in Strasbourg, France. The appointment will commence in July 2027, following the completion of the current Secretary-General's mandate. The initial appointment will be for a three-year term, renewable once. Salary will be negotiated in accordance with HFSPO's salary policy.

HFSPO is an international organization supporting cultural diversity and gender equality.

HFSPO seeks applications from any person holding the nationality of any of the HFSPO Members; Australia, Canada, France, Germany, India, Israel, Italy, Japan, Republic of Korea, New Zealand, Norway, Singapore, South Africa, Switzerland, UK, USA, and as well of any of the countries of the European Union not mentioned above.

Applications, accompanied by a CV, should be sent to Perrett Laver by clicking the "Apply on Website" button. Enquiries and applications may also be addressed to Tiziano.Sartor@perrettlaver.com.