As a globally recognized research center, VITO aims to accelerate the transition toward a sustainable world. We believe that with our Health Research Program, we can pioneer a preventive approach to health care and support societal transitions. One of the pillars of our approach is the prevention of diseases caused by environmental pollution. Our research relies heavily on measurement data of chemical substances in the environment and in humans, combined with lifestyle factor insights (such as diet, stress, green space, …) to identify health risks and take measures to control them. Sound research data management and efficient data reuse is increasingly important in this domain.

You will be full time employed as a project manager in VITO’s Environment & Health team. This means that you will manage large projects & offers for institutional clients like the European Commission (including Horizon Europe funded projects) and the European Environment Agency. While most of your portfolio will be institutional clients, also commercial clients could be part of your account. You will oversee projects from initiation till closing, making sure the work gets done efficiently and satisfactorily.

This function requires expert skills with respect to project & bid management. You should be able to handle large and complex projects & tenders, where you take the lead over an international partnership. This requires excellent management skills, negotiation power, planning & budgeting experience, and a delegating attitude. 

You will be working with experts in chemicals, human exposure, health risks or research data management and a sound understanding of these domains and knowledge of the ecosystem in which we operate is a strong asset.

In VITO you will report on the progress of your projects to the Program Manager and domain experts. Outside VITO you will communicate and report frequently with/to clients and partners.

We are looking for a experienced profile, creative and highly motivated, with at least the following qualifications:

• You have a Master or PhD degree in environmental sciences or life sciences
• You have proven knowledge and expertise of at least 3 years in project and bid management in an international context. Experience in all core Project Management duties through project start up, design, procurement, execution, and handover stages. You also have high-level knowledge on chemicals, human exposure, health risks and research data management
• You have proven knowledge and expertise in effective Project Management techniques
• Having a project management certificate is an asset
• You have the ability to make decisions, act on your own initiative and operate in a pro-active way. You are a born problem solver with a strong customer focus and you have a cool-headed attitude
• You have excellent writing and presentation skills in English 

Offer

• We work 'activity-based', our activities bring us to our location. Our headquarter is in Mol. Part-time working from home or a satellite office in Antwerp-Berchem, Ghent or Ostend is possible.
• A competitive salary with a range of benefits, including allowances, insurance and a modular package of holidays.
• Innovation is our asset, so it goes without saying that we give our employees the opportunity to take additional training courses and stay up-to-date in their field. You will always have the opportunity to broaden your knowledge and discover new technologies.
• You will have the opportunity to be part of an organization with an international reputation, known for its cutting-edge technological research and scientific consultancy.
• With us, you will contribute directly to sustainable developments at local, national and global level through your innovative applications. You provide answers to contemporary societal challenges.
• Moreover, we highly value a good work-life balance at VITO! This is achieved by adopting a flexible attitude depending on your specific needs.