The KIOS Research and Innovation Center of Excellence at the University of Cyprus announces one (1) full-time Special Scientist for Research (Project Specialist) position. The successful candidate is expected to provide business development, project coordination and strategic development services for research and innovation projects at the Center, including DiGiNN2.

DiGiNN2.0 is the European Digital Innovation Hub of Cyprus, supporting SMEs, startups, and public organisations in adopting AI and advanced digital technologies. It provides AI expertise, testing facilities, training, compliance guidance, and investment support to accelerate digital transformation and innovation.

Who we are:
The KIOS Research and Innovation Center of Excellence is the largest research center of its kind in Cyprus and one of Europe’s leading Center of Excellence that combines world-class academic research with real-world application through its innovation-driven environment. Currently, the Center employs more than 200 people who are supported by externally funded research and innovation projects and has strong international collaborations, translating advanced research into impactful solutions. The KIOS CoE operates in a diverse environment as an equal opportunity employer.

What we do:
KIOS provides an inspiring environment for carrying out top level research and innovation in the area of Information and Communication Technologies, with emphasis on the Monitoring, Control and Security of Critical Infrastructures. Such infrastructures include power and energy systems, water networks, transportation networks, telecommunication networks and emergency management and response. The Center instigates interdisciplinary interaction and promotes collaboration between industry, academia, and research organizations in high-tech areas of global importance.

Why work at KIOS:
You will be part of a leading research and innovation environment, playing a key role in high-profile projects with both local and global reach. This role places you within a dynamic organization, where your work delivers tangible impact on today’s most important challenges. You will have opportunities to grow professionally and take ownership in an intellectually rigorous setting. You will build relationships across academia, industry, and public authorities, within a flexible, supportive and diverse environment with continuous training and professional development opportunities.

Job Details
The successful candidate is expected to:
• Identify and promote collaboration opportunities with industry, partners and the project stakeholder environment.
• Support the development, coordination and implementation of the project, including market analysis of SMEs and their requirements related to KIOS DiGiNN solutions.
• Support SMEs and public organizations in Cyprus in the digitalization process and in the adoption of AI.
• Organize and participate in networking events with the industry and government sectors.
• Collect and analyze data and report on the project’s Key performance Indicators.
• Support the Principal investigator of the projects in any other project related activity.
• Contribute to the Centre’s stakeholder engagement, dissemination, training and outreach activities.
• Contribute to the Centre’s development and deployment of innovation management processes.
• Create and sustain positive relationships with internal stakeholders across research and administrative teams

Profile of the ideal candidate:
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and stakeholder engagement skills
• Excellent communication, organizational and self-management skills
• Strong project coordination skills
• Able to work independently and collaboratively in multidisciplinary environments
• Able to engage effectively with academia, industry and public authorities
• Reliable and trustworthy
• Flexible and eager to learn
• Able to adapt in a fast-paced dynamic environment
• Excellent knowledge of the Greek and English language

Qualifications and Experience:
• Bachelor’s and/or Master’s degree in Innovation Management, Engineering, Computer Science, Information Systems, Public Policy, Economics, or other related field, from an accredited institution
• Doctorate degree or equivalent in a related area will be considered as an advantage
• Minimum 3 years of demonstrated experience in funded projects
• Experience in coordinating research and innovation projects
• Experience in research and innovation management

Employment Terms:
The position is on a contract basis. Initially, a one-year contract will be offered, with a 6-month probation period, which is renewable based on performance. The gross monthly salary depends on the candidate’s qualifications and experience and will be between €2400 – €3200. From this amount, employee contributions to the Cyprus government funds will be deducted. A 13th salary bonus is incorporated in the monthly salary. Maternity leave will be granted based on Maternity Protection Law 1997(Ν.100(Ι)/1997), and the existing amendment laws.

Application:
Interested candidates should submit the following items online through the link:
https://applications.ucy.ac.cy/recruitment
• Cover letter explaining the interest of the applicant in pursuing a career at the KIOS CoE, along with employment availability date, in English
• Short summary of prior work experiences, activities and accomplishments (can be combined with the cover letter), in English (2 pages maximum)
• A detailed curriculum vitae in English
• Copies of transcripts of BSc/MSc/PhD or other degree(s)
• Copy of an English language certificate (if any of your degrees were taught in English, this will be considered equivalent to an English language certificate)
• Contact details of at least two referees that can provide reference letters

The applications should be submitted as soon as possible, but not later than Friday, 28th of August 2026, at 5 pm. The evaluation of the applications will begin immediately. At least the best three candidates that satisfy the required qualifications will be interviewed by a 3-member Selection Committee. Candidates will be informed of the result of their application by the KIOS CoE.

Applicants need not be citizens of the Republic of Cyprus. Applicants should however ensure, before applying, that in case they are selected they will be residing in Cyprus on a full-time basis during the employment period and submission of application implies acceptance of this condition. The employment of persons who have reached the age of 65 years old, at the commencement date of employment, is prohibited.

The University of Cyprus shall collect and process your personal data according to the provisions of the General Regulation on Personal Data 2016/679 (EU).

The University of Cyprus (UCY) is committed to promoting inclusivity, diversity, and equality, as well as the elimination of all forms of discrimination in order to provide a fair, safe, and pleasant environment for the entire university community, where students and staff members will feel supported both in their professional and personal development, within and beyond their multiple identities. To this end, UCY seeks to create the necessary conditions that will encourage and respect diversity and ensure dignity both in the workplace and society at large. Moreover, UCY has adopted specific policies to promote equal opportunities, as well as respect and understanding of diversity, while it is committed to promoting and maintaining a working, teaching, and learning environment, free from any form of discrimination, whether direct or indirect.

For more information, please contact the KIOS Center of Excellence, by phone at +357 22893460 or via e-mail at [email protected].