Heads of Risk Assessment Departments – EFSA/X/AD/2026/03
European Food Safety Authority (EFSA), based in Parma, Italy, is looking for Heads of Risk Assessment Departments. The position is temporary, Grade AD12.
Head of Department: “B – Risk Assessment I (Plants, Animals, Biological Hazards and Pesticides)”
Head of Department: “C – Risk Assessment II (Food and Feed Products)”
Please send your application by 24 August 2026 at 23:59 (local time). Follow the instructions in the ANNEX.
EFSA is launching a selection procedure to fill two Head of Department positions for its two future Risk Assessment Departments, which are expected to become operational as of January 2027. The successful candidates will shape these departments and ensure the delivery of scientific risk assessments, in line with EFSA’s mission.
Is this job for you?
Are you an experienced leader with a strong track record of managing scientific functions, shaping strategic priorities, and guiding multidisciplinary teams in a complex and evolving environment? As a trusted leader,



you embody EFSA’s values and foster a culture of efficiency, excellence and collaboration. You inspire others through your actions, creating an environment where people can thrive and perform at their best.
As Head of one of EFSA's Risk Assessment Departments, you will provide strategic leadership and direction, ensuring effective delivery of departmental activities within your areas of responsibility. You will contribute to EFSA’s mission to safeguard food and feed safety in Europe.
Department Missions
1. Department “B – Risk Assessment I (Plants, Animals, Biological Hazards and Pesticides)”
- Includes the units: B1 Biological Hazards, Animal Health and Welfare; B2 Pesticide Coordination and MRL; B3 Pesticide Review; and B4 Plant Health.
- Delivers high‑quality, independent and transparent scientific risk assessments across biological hazards, animal health and welfare, plant health, and plant protection products. It supports EU de

📌 Strategic Leader, Risk Assessment Department (Italia)
🏢 The European Food Safety Authority
📍 Italia