FFoQSI is the leading, application-oriented COMET K1 research centre for feed, food, quality, safety and innovation in Austria. We develop forward-looking solutions along the entire value chain ‘from field to fork'. We focus on improving quality and safety, promoting sustainable food systems and the digital transformation of supply chains. We use state-of-the-art technologies and expertise to optimise processes and work with partners to set new standards for a sustainable agricultural and food industry. FFoQSI combines the expertise of renowned Austrian research institutions and international experts with the know-how of open-minded and research-affine companies from Austria and abroad - around 60 % of which are small and medium-sized enterprises.

Scientific Director (f/m)

www.ffoqsi.at

The tasks of the scientific management include the management and representation of the centre in scientific matters, the scientific orientation of the centre, further developing the research programme, developing the third-party-funding (non-K), in particular with regard to the implementation of or participation in research projects, coordinating research work across areas, integrating the centre internationally, maintaining contacts with domestic and foreign scientists and stakeholders, and planning other scientific projects.

In particular, the Scientific Director

• represents FFoQSI in scientific matters, particularly at the international scientific community
• is an authorized representative of the company
• reports to the Managing Director
• represents the Managing Director if he is absent
• develops the scientific strategy of the centre, especially in COMET application-phases
• is especially responsible for project and partner acquisition
• is bound by decisions taken by the shareholders and bodies of the company, he is bound to compliance regulations
• coordinates the compilation of the required scientific progress reports
• explores corrective measures or alternatives if deliverables or milestones turn out to be unachievable or scientific objectives cannot be reached as planned
• ensures proper scientific benchmarking
• develops a strategy for scientific expansion, then actively seeks and fosters new forms of collaborative projects and scientific partnerships within the centre's remit
• identifies and plans necessary major future investments (in accordance with the MD)
• initiates and organizes scientific training and education activities of the centre

The Scientific Director has

• the rank of a university professor or a professor at a university of applied sciences (FH)
• leadership competence and management experience in large (international) cooperative research projects
• the capability and experience in the development of strategy and strategic direction
• strategic research management experience
• the capability of “out-of-the-box” & “lateral” thinking
• experience with technology transfer (market orientation, patents)
• crisis management and leadership skills
• preferable COMET experience

• great creative freedom
• a very committed consortium
• well established structures and a supportive head office
• close collaboration with partner companies
• exchange between the project groups
• part time (20 % FTE)
• home office

Planned start of work: October 2026