Press Officer (IR-ECO-PRD-2025-73-LD)

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

Are you passionate about communicating fundamental research in the current media landscape? Do you thrive in a fast-paced news environment with many different audiences? CERN offers an exciting opportunity to be part of and coordinate its media relations team’s work.

The CERN Press Office is the focal point for media worldwide interested in CERN. It is part of CERN’s Media and Digital Communications (PRD) section in the Education, Communications and Outreach (ECO) group in the International Relations (IR) sector. Its mission is to deliver CERN’s key messages to global media and manage the image and reputation of the Laboratory. The Press Office develops and implements media engagement, welcomes journalists, influencers and other media representatives, prepares and distributes press releases, undertakes media monitoring and provides media training, as well as dealing with crisis communication within CERN.

Functions

As a Press Officer, you will be part of a team that ensures an effective interface between CERN and media worldwide. You will play a pivotal role in promoting CERN’s research findings and impact to the media and the public. You will help to craft compelling narratives, working with scientists and other internal stakeholders, and disseminate press releases and other communication products. You will be managing media relations, engaging with journalists, influencers and other media representatives in sharing information and messages about CERN and its activities.

Under the supervision of the head of the Media and Digital Communications section you will:

• Implement media strategies to effectively communicate scientific research and results and other CERN activities to diverse audiences.
• Collaborate with internal stakeholders to ensure accurate and consistent messaging across all communications channels.
• Share resources and assist with other activities related to media and digital communications as requested.           
• Draft and distribute press releases, briefing notes, statements and other materials highlighting CERN's scientific achievements and impact.
• Cultivate relationships with media contacts, respond to inquiries, and facilitate interviews with researchers and experts.
• Organise press conferences, briefings, and media visits and events to showcase key research findings and promote public engagement with science.
• Monitor and evaluate digital activities of the Press Office to demonstrate the impact of its activities and inform continued strategy development.
• Take part in the Crisis Communication Group in the event of a crisis at CERN.

Bachelor's degree or equivalent relevant experience in the field of scientific journalism or communication or media studies with a strong understanding of research methodologies and scientific principles or a related field.

Experience:

• Proven experience in science communications, public relations or journalism, preferably within a scientific or academic setting.
• Experience in drafting and editing, with the ability to distill complex scientific concepts into clear, engaging content for non-expert audiences.
• Familiarity with media relations tools and platforms for maximising outreach and engagement.
• Experience in evaluation and monitoring communication activities.

Technical competencies:

• Media relations: act as a liaison between our organization and journalists, influencers and other media representatives, responding to their inquiries and facilitating interviews with researchers and experts.
• Event organisation and management: of press conferences, briefings, media visits and events.
• Drafting and writing of official documents: press releases, briefing notes, statements and other materials, highlighting our organization's scientific achievements and impact in addition to daily correspondence with journalists and other interlocutors in English.
• Science communications: passion for science, curiosity about new discoveries, and a commitment to promoting scientific literacy and understanding.

Behavioural competencies:

• Demonstrating accountability: working conscientiously and reliably; delivering on promises; taking responsibility for own actions and decisions.
• Achieving results: having a structured and organised approach towards work; being able to set priorities and plan tasks with results in mind; delivering high quality work on time and fulfilling expectations.
• Working in teams: building and maintaining constructive and effective work relationships; working well in groups and readily fitting into a team; participating fully and taking an active role in team activities.
• Working in the interest of the organization: accepting and complying with strategy and directions from hierarchy; behaving consistently with CERN's values and goals.
• Demonstrating flexibility: being willing to work on different projects simultaneously; adapting quickly and resourcefully to shifting priorities and requirements.

Language skills:

Spoken and written English or French, with a commitment to learn the other language.

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 21.05.2025 23:59 CEST

Employment Conditions

Contract type: Limited duration contract (5 years). Subject to certain conditions, holders of limited-duration contracts may apply for an indefinite position.

Working Hours: 40 hours per week

This position involves:

• Interventions in underground installations.
• A valid driving licence.
• Work during nights, Sundays and official holidays, when required by the needs of the Organization.

Job grade: 4-5

Job reference: IR-ECO-PRD-2025-73-LD

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