The Board of Trustees of the International Human Frontier Science Program Organization (HFSPO) invites applications and nominations for the position of Secretary-General.

HFSPO is a leading organization supporting international collaboration in life sciences research, taking a worldwide approach in the spirit of science without borders.

Through its internationally recognised research grant and fellowship programmes, HFSPO advances frontier life sciences research by supporting bold, investigator-driven, high-risk/high-gain collaborations across disciplines that drive fundamental discoveries for the benefit of all humankind.

The successful applicant will have the opportunity to lead HFSPO into its fifth decade, building further the prestigious reputation of HFSPO. The Secretary-General should be an internationally recognized and respected scientist who:

1. Champions HFSPO's Shared Values and frontier research globally.
2. Combines innovative thinking with qualifications in a field relevant to the scientific priorities of HFSPO and an appreciation of the importance of novel approaches for advancing life science research.
3. Demonstrates integrity, cultural sensitivity and strong communication skills in leading the Organization and representing HFSPO externally.
4. Possesses extensive experience in stimulating and coordinating international research collaborations, including interactions with academia, funding bodies and governments.
5. Brings senior-level scientific administrative and management experience, preferably related to the implementation of international research programs.
6. Translates the Board's vision and the HFSPO Strategy into effective organizational action, strengthens HFSPO's world-leading Programs, and leads the Organization into the next phase of its development.
7. Leads and empowers a high-performing international Secretariat through modern leadership and fosters organizational agility, digital transformation and a culture of continuous learning.

The position is full-time. The successful candidate may maintain a scientific appointment at a university or research institute, subject to the approval of the Board and in line with HFSPO’s policy on conflict of interest.

HFSPO conducts all its work in English. The Secretary-General will be based at HFSPO's office in Strasbourg, France. The appointment will commence on 1 July 2027, following the completion of the current Secretary-General's statutory mandate. The initial appointment will be for a three-year term, renewable once. Salary will be negotiated in accordance with HFSPO's salary policy.

HFSPO is committed to fostering an inclusive and diverse organisation and welcomes applications from suitably qualified candidates of all backgrounds.

HFSPO seeks applications from nationals of any HFSPO Member: Australia, Canada, France, Germany, India, Israel, Italy, Japan, the Republic of Korea, New Zealand, Norway, Singapore, South Africa, Switzerland, the United Kingdom and the United States, as well as nationals of any other Member State of the European Union.

Informal enquiries and questions can be directed to Tiziano Sartor at Tiziano.Sartor@perrettlaver.com. Applications consisting of a covering letter and a full CV can be uploaded until 18 September 2026 COB at https://plusportal.perrettlaver.com/, quoting reference number 8574.