Coordinate the development of the scientific programme for our flagship event, FEMS MICRO: Congress & Exhibition (typically 2000+ participants, including 130+ speakers and approx. 1500 poster presenters).
Coordinate abstract submissions, peer review, topic allocation, and programme scheduling using abstract-management platform.
Support the design of innovative and balanced scientific programmes in collaboration with the Programme Committee and Senior staff.
Support in facilitating committee workflows, including agendas, content briefings and meeting minutes.
Contact (keynote) speakers and suggesting cutting-edge topics and people to present at our events.
Track key performance indicators, such as abstract submission and evaluation results in close collaboration with the Events Manager for programme promotion and reporting.
Identify opportunities to reuse content for other FEMS activities and create synergies with FEMS publishing, in collaboration with the Journals publishing team.
Assist with other events-related logistics.

At least 2–4 years of experience in a similar programme or project management role, with a proven track record in delivering scientific programmes for larger international conferences.
Experience with the full congress programme lifecycle: from call for submissions to post-event reporting to managing complex timelines and workflows with strong attention to detail.
Ability to identify emerging topics, speakers and industry partnerships for programme enhancements.
An excellent communicator able to build and maintain relationships in an international environment with academia, industry partners and internal stakeholders.
Ability to understand microbiology or life sciences concepts, interpret scientific content and translate technical discussions into clear, actionable programme decisions.
Proficient in Microsoft 365, abstract management tools, project management software, CRM systems and data analysis.
Proactive, able to work independently and collaboratively, with an intrinsic motivation to learn and enhance processes.
Able to keep multiple projects on track and meet internal and external deadlines.
Excellent fluency in written and spoken English.
A valid work permit and living in the Netherlands.

Salary: a starting gross full-time salary of between EUR 3,350 and EUR 3,750 per month, depending on work experience and education (full time is 36-hours a week)
Holiday allowance: 8% (paid in May)
Time off: 29 holidays per year of which 5 days are when the office is closed at the end of the year. Plus a paid day off on your birthday.
Work-life balance: an employer that promotes family-friendly and work-life balance practices
Every fortnight a day off: flexible working environment with the ability to work (partly) from home and work 9 days out of 10

Events Programme Officer

Key skills