Working Student - EIT Higher Education Initiative

Company Description

As the world moves towards a greener future, the demand for raw materials—minerals and metals—is set to increase immensely over the next three decades. Europe faces a critical challenge in securing a stable supply of these essential resources. This challenge is where EIT RawMaterials steps in. EIT RawMaterials is at the forefront of driving innovation and sustainability in the raw materials sector. As an Innovation Community within the European Institute of Innovation and Technology (EIT), we collaborate with over 300 partners across industry, academia, and research institutes. Together, we forge dynamic, long-term partnerships to develop innovative solutions that meet Europe's growing demand for raw materials.

About the EIT Higher Education Initiative

The EIT Higher Education Initiative is a joint EIT Community activity coordinated by EIT RawMaterials. Eight of the nine EIT Knowledge and Innovation Communities (KICs) participate in its implementation. Under Horizon Europe and specifically illustrated in the EIT Strategic Innovation Agenda 2021-2027, the EIT and the KICs are raising the bar in higher education and creating systemic impact by (i) strengthening the innovation and entrepreneurial capacity of HEIs at the institutional level and (ii) empowering HEIs to engage with their innovation ecosystems. It does this by providing participating organisations with:

• access to the EIT innovation ecosystem

• learning, co-creation and networking opportunities in a community of higher education innovators

• funding that enables education, business and research to work together to develop and implement innovation capacity building action plans

The EIT Higher Education Initiative holds annual Calls for Proposals through which cohorts of projects are selected for funding. So far, 65 projects have been implemented, and a further 47 projects have started their project lifecycle in April 2025.

About the Role

To manage its expanded scope effectively, the EIT Higher Education Initiative team is seeking a Working Student (m/f/d) to provide essential operational and administrative support. This role offers a unique opportunity to gain hands-on experience in European innovation policy, higher education transformation, and large-scale program management within an international and dynamic environment.

Tasks and Responsibilities

Operational Support for Calls for Proposals & Project Administration

• Support the management of Calls for Proposals.

• Process applications and assist with data validation and tracking.

• Coordinate with evaluators and assist in managing the EIT Higher Education Initiative mailbox.

• Support monitoring of the online application platform.

• Conduct desk research and prepare short project fiches or summaries.

Strengthening Process Efficiency & Stakeholder Experience

• Contribute to the efficient coordination of stakeholder communication across funded projects.

• Assist with data management and documentation workflows.

• Support event planning, logistics, and reporting.

• Help improve administrative processes and tools to enhance team efficiency.

Requirements

• Currently enrolled in a Bachelor’s or Master’s degree program (preferably in European Studies, Innovation Management, Business Administration, Communication, or related fields).

• Eligible to work as a student in Germany.

• Enrolled for at least 1.5-2 years

Skills & Competencies

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills in English (C1 level or above).

• Strong organizational and multitasking abilities with attention to detail.

• Proficiency in Microsoft Office (especially Excel, PowerPoint, and SharePoint).

• Comfortable working with data and online platforms.

• Proactive attitude and ability to work both independently and collaboratively in a multicultural team.

Desirable

• Interest in European innovation policy, higher education, or entrepreneurship.

• Experience with project management or administrative support roles.

• Familiarity with EU-funded programs or grant management processes.

What We Offer

• Opportunity to contribute to a Europe-wide initiative shaping the future of higher education and innovation.

• Flexible working hours to accommodate study schedules.

• Dynamic, international work environment within the EIT Community.

• Hands-on experience in EU project management, stakeholder communication, and data operations.

Application Process Overview

1. Application Review
   Our team carefully evaluates each application to ensure alignment with the role and our values.
   📌 Please submit your CV in English.

2. Interview and Assignment (45-60 minutes)
   If shortlisted, you’ll receive a brief assignment to complete before the interview.

3. Offer - If successful, you’ll receive an offer to join our team and begin your journey with us.