Do you want to contribute to increasing the impact of research-based knowledge in Nordic policymaking and public debate? Do you believe that African perspectives deserve a stronger voice in global discussions? Do you have a sharp pen, and the ability to identify and convey the core of complex social science research? Then you may be the person we’re looking for.
The Nordic Africa Institute (NAI) is seeking a research communication officer with a background in writing and editing, and experience from media liaison work. The ideal candidate seeks to build creative collaborations with researchers and other colleagues, and thrives in translating academic knowledge into accessible, engaging, and policy-relevant stories.
This is a permanent position with a probationary period. We offer a stimulating work environment in Uppsala, with the possibility of partial remote work and generous employee benefits.
About us
NAI is a Swedish government agency under the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, funded by the governments of Finland, Iceland, and Sweden. Our mission is to deepen the understanding of contemporary African perspectives among Nordic decision-makers and associated change-makers. We conduct research and collaborate with stakeholders in the Nordic region and in Africa. The institute has around 35 staff members from nearly 20 countries.
The Communications team at NAI produces articles, films, podcasts, infographics, policy notes and other publications, organizes tailor-made briefing programmes and large events, shares its research-based knowledge in selected digital channels, and holds workshops in science-to-policy communication. We work closely with researchers in developing our communication.
About the position
You will play a central role in making research-based knowledge accessible and relevant to external audiences, especially within the Nordic policy and media landscapes.
We are looking for someone who can process complex research-based knowledge and transform it into relevant and compelling pieces for our newsletter, website and other digital channels. This work includes some editing of texts written by researchers and intended for policymaking audiences.
This role also includes shared responsibility for our press work, therefore we expect you to have previous experience from this area – ideally through work as a communicator or journalist in a Nordic country – and to be familiar with the media landscape in that country.
The working language at the institute is English. Some travel is included in this job.

• Follow Nordic and African policy debates and developments, and keep up to date with ongoing research at the institute, to identify communication opportunities.
• Write articles based on research conducted at the institute. Occasionally travel with a researcher to write about their work in the field.
• Edit research-based, policy-facing texts written by researchers and intended for non-academic audiences.
• Act as press liaison for the institute, maintain and develop relationships with key journalists in the Nordic countries and internationally.
• Write and edit shorter texts intended for social media channels.
• Collaborate with fellow communicators and researchers to define key messages from ongoing and concluded research.
  Qualifications