Project manager & overall institutional representative for Horizon Europe R&I projects, at the University of Southern Denmark

Do you have experience with project management of public-private R&I projects funded by the EU, or have you been bridging between R&D institutions and the European Commission, as the overall administrative representative or project officer for a portfolio of projects?

If you are looking for a position that combines both aspects, the University of Southern Denmark (SDU) offers a unique full-time position.

The position

Your main task for the first year will be the project management of two European projects coordinated by SDU. In each project the main task is the support of, and collaboration with, the scientific principal investigator (PI) of a European R&I project. Your role will be to facilitate optimal consortium cooperation, monitor progress, and manage the project and budget incl. deviations from the plan. 

After an initial focus on project management, you will start to transition towards the overall management of SDU’s portfolio of Horizon Europe projects. Over the course of few years, you will take over the LEAR (Legally Appointed Representative) responsibility to support SDU’s overall management of incoming projects, substantial project deviations, and negotiations with the European Commission.

The team and organization

The position is anchored in the Research Support team of SDU’s Research and Innovation Organisation (RIO). The team is international and characterised by teamwork and an informal, flexible but ambitious working environment. The team collaborates with SDU’s researchers and faculty research supporters.

Your profile

We are looking for a colleague experienced in project management of large R&I consortia funded by the European Commission. Experience with administrative, budgeting and compliance issues in academic institutions or the Commission, as well as knowledge about the Horizon European funding landscape, is an advantage.

Applicants are expected to have a structured approach to task-solving and to thrive with being responsible for efficient, high-quality and proactive administrative support. Interpersonal, intercultural, communication and self-management skills are also vital. When dealing with challenging project deviations, negotiations both internally and with the European Commission will require both negotiation skills and assertiveness.

More information

• You will refer to the head of SDU RIO’s Research Support team, Esben N. Flindt.
• The position may require travels within Europe several times per year, especially in the first years of the position.
• Danish speaking skills are not strictly required but are an advantage. Proficient English skills in speech and writing are necessary.
• European citizenship or working permit is necessary, with few exceptions.

Application

• SDU wishes to reflect the surrounding community and therefore invites everyone, regardless of personal background, to apply for the position.
• The application deadline is 8^th of December 2025.
• 1st round interviews are expected to take place from 11^th to 16^th of December 2025 and online interviews are an option for candidates not based in Denmark.
• 2nd round interviews are expected to take place between the 17^th and 22^th of December 2025 in Odense, Denmark.
• The job start is preferably February 1^st 2026.
• Employment will take place as administrative officer or special consultant with salary in accordance with qualifications. 
• The primary place of employment is Cortex Park 26, 5230 Odense M, Denmark or in the SDU office in central Copenhagen.
• Further information about the position can be obtained from head of unit Esben N. Flindt (M: +45 4047 3773, E: enf@sdu.dk).

About SDU RIO

SDU RIO is a central unit at SDU, tasked with the purpose of supporting SDU's strategic focus on creating value for and with society. SDU RIO supports and facilitates the interaction between research, education, industry, grant providers and the public sector. 

The position is anchored in the Research Support team that provides support for researchers, academic leaders and SDU’s wider research support system on the topics of policy, strategy, external relations, project development, fundraising, project management, ethics, and data-based tools for research development.

SDU aims to be a diverse and inclusive workplace and educational institution, where all employees and students have equal opportunities and rights.