Trainee Lawyer EMBL - European Molecular Biology Laboratory Heidelberg, Germany

Contract Duration: 6 months with possibility of extension
Grading: N/A
Closing Date: 15 July 2013
Reference number: HD_00369

Job Description

EMBL's International Relations Unit is located in EMBL’s Headquarter in Heidelberg. It assists and advises the Director General in all matters linked to international relations and is responsible for shaping and implementing the external relations strategy for the organisation. As an international organisation, EMBL is engaged in relations with numerous institutions in its member states and beyond. This comprises relations with European Union bodies, EIROforum, European Strategy Forum on Research Infrastructures (ESFRI) and other partners of EMBL.
Legal matters related to international relations issues are dealt with within the unit by the Head of Legal Services to International Relations.
Under the direct supervision of the Head of Legal Services to International Relations the Trainee Lawyer is an integral part of the International Relations Unit in Heidelberg. He/she will be exposed to a wide variety of legal, political and international relations matters and be required to perform a broad and interdisciplinary range of tasks, including for example research and drafting on legal and political issues that ultimately serve advising the EMBL Director General, the Director International Relations and the Head of Legal Services to International Relations. The offered position is located in a very international, vibrant, cooperative, team-oriented environment. It requires regular travelling.

Main Duties and Responsibilities 

• Establish agreements and governance structures in the field of international relations;
• Provide legal research;
• Assist in matters related to EMBL’s involvement with European Research Area stakeholders; 
• Establish relationship with EU bodies as well as international and national research organizations; 
• Prepare briefing notes and presentations.

Qualifications and Experience

The post holder has an advanced university degree in law demonstrating an international focus in his/her academic career. Experience related to international relations would be an asset. Young professionals are encouraged to apply.
The Post Holder Has/Is:

• Familiar with International law; Corporate and Intellectual Property Law (would be asset);
• Experience in contract negotiation and design;
• Knowledge and understanding of the functioning of the European Union, in particular decision-making processes;
• Ability to work to tight deadlines and handle a multitude of matters in parallel;
• An understanding of the culture and political complexity of the area including diplomatic skills; 
• Strong analytical skills and the ability to identify problems and offer pragmatic solutions; 
• Client-focussed; 
• Excellent English communication skills are mandatory (command of French would be an asset); 
• Demonstrated ability to work in a multi cultural environment and to maintain effective working relations with people of different national and cultural backgrounds; 
• Proficiency in using Microsoft Office; 
• Ability to work independently as well as in a team.

Application Instructions

Please apply online through www.embl.org/jobs.

Additional Information

EMBL is an inclusive, equal opportunity employer offering attractive conditions and benefits appropriate to an international research organisation.