The KU Leuven Institute Energy & Society (in Dutch: “Energie en Maatschappij”, KIEM), brings together KU Leuven research related to the energy transition, with a focus both on technology and societal context. It creates a stimulating interdisciplinary community for discovery, training and information with the aim of contributing to the energy transition in its broad sense. The energy transition will only be realized if the entire society accepts and supports that the current energy system must be reoriented - and if both the transition pathways and their outcomes are scientifically and technically responsible.KIEM defines strategic research lines and associated opportunities (for multi‑and interdisciplinary collaboration, funding, and valorization) and coordinates and optimizes resources, infrastructure and expert support. In addition, the institute aims to increase the visibility of KU Leuven’s energy‑related research and functions as a central point of contact within the university as well as for the broader research community, policy makers, industry, press and general public. It thus also actively contributes to and informs the public debate through science outreach and supports science‑based policy making with substantiated expert information. Responsibilities Lead the day‑to‑day management of KU Leuven Institute for Energy & Society (KIES), in close collaboration with the Executive Board and relevant university services. Translate institute strategy into an actionable portfolio: maintain a multi‑year pipeline of themes, opportunities and partnerships that strengthen continuity and institutionalisation of strategic research lines. Act as first contact point for energy‑transition research at KU Leuven, connecting internal expertise to external opportunities and requests (policy, industry, civil society, media). Proactively scout strategic opportunities and shape positioning for competitive funding: identify priority calls, develop compelling narratives and impact pathways, and mobilise the right internal expertise in collaboration with research support and administrative staff. Facilitate proposal and partnership trajectories by connecting PIs and external partners, shaping the storyline and stakeholder value proposition, and ensuring timely coordination and decision‑making. Strengthen external stakeholder relationships (policy makers, regulators, industry leadership and societal actors) and translate decision‑maker needs into relevant research and collaboration agendas. Curate and coordinate the KIES community platform: seminars, workshops, training days and networking events in collaboration with institute staff. Lead institute visibility and thought leadership: coordinate stakeholder‑facing communication (website/social media), outreach activities and media interactions, ensuring scientific robustness and alignment with institute strategy. Act as a bridge to complementary initiatives such as EnergyVille where relevant. Profile PhD (required) with demonstrated expertise and broad interest in energy transition, spanning technology, markets, regulation and societal context. Strong ability to engage and advise senior stakeholders: proven experience working with decision‑makers (e.G., policy makers, regulators, industry leadership) and translating complex energy topics into actionable insights and agendas. Excellent networking, facilitation and communication skills; able to build trust across academia–policy–industry–society and to align diverse interests around shared research objectives. Demonstrated strength in strategic positioning and agenda‑setting: capable of identifying emerging themes, framing research questions, and shaping compelling narratives and impact pathways for interdisciplinary initiatives. Strong public communication and outreach capability (e.G., media engagement, stakeholder‑facing communication, science‑to‑policy translation) with sound judgement, accuracy and integrity. Able to work independently and proactively in an international and multicultural environment; strong sense of ownership, prioritisation and follow‑through. Full professional proficiency in English (written and spoken). Dutch proficiency is a must. Offer A dynamic working environment with very diverse, motivated and competent researchers, in which quality, professionalism and collaboration are key values. Collaboration with academic and professional stakeholders in an international environment. Opportunities for personal initiative and strategic ownership in collaboration with the KIEM Executive Board. A full time or 80% position, starting as soon as possible. A budget for travel and expenses in support of the institute’s activities. Appointment within KU Leuven’s OZK (Research Framework) as Research Manager (level depending on experience), with salary and benefits according to the applicable OZK pay scales and relevant experience. KU Leuven strives for an inclusive, respectful and socially safe environment. We embrace diversity among individuals and groups as an asset. Open dialogue and differences in perspective are essential for an ambitious research and educational environment. In our commitment to equal opportunity, we recognize the consequences of historical inequalities. We do not accept any form of discrimination based on, but not limited to, gender identity and expression, sexual orientation, age, ethnic or national background, skin colour, religious and philosophical diversity, neurodivergence, employment disability, health, or socioeconomic status. For questions about accessibility or support offered, we are happy to assist you at this email address. #J-18808-Ljbffr