We are hiring!

Student Assistant Science Communication (1 day/week) – RHEA (VUB)

Period: April – September 2026
Workload: ± 1 day per week (approximately 7–8 hours, flexible scheduling)
Location: Combination of on-site work (VUB, Brussels) and remote work

The RHEA Expertise Centre on Gender, Diversity and Intersectionality at the Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB) is looking for a student assistant to support science communication related to the research of Dr. Hannelore Van Bavelon genital modifications, specifically female genital mutilation/cutting (FGM/C) and female genital cosmetic surgery.

You will contribute to Genitalks, a platform that makes academic research on these topics accessible to a broader audience through social media, blogs, and events.

Tasks:

• Translate academic research articles into accessible and accurate social media posts and blog articles

• Create content for the Genitalks website and social media channels (e.g., Instagram, LinkedIn)

• Announce and/or report on events, talks, and activities

• Contribute ideas to increase the reach and impact of Genitalks on social media

Profile:

• Interest in science communication, gender studies, and topics such as sexual and reproductive health

• Experience with social media; a background in communication sciences, journalism, or social sciences is a plus

• Ability to read, understand, and translate academic research for a broader audience

• Able to communicate sensitively and respectfully about socially sensitive topics

• Ability to work independently

• Strong written skills in Dutch and English; French is a plus

We offer:

• A flexible student job that can be combined with your studies

• Experience in science communication and academic research

• The opportunity to contribute to socially relevant research

• Salary according to the VUB student pay scale

Interested?

Please send your CV and a short motivation letter to Dr. Hannelore Van Bavel at
Hannelore.Van.Bavel@vub.be

Application deadline: 31 March 2026