What is the role of an EMEUNET Country Liaison?

One of the main aims of the EULAR EMEUNET committee is to foster networking, educational opportunities, and research collaborations. Therefore, we actively encourage young rheumatologists and researchers worldwide to become members and actively participate in activities. To achieve this goal, EMEUNET works closely with Country Liaisons, who play a critical role in disseminating information from and increasing the visibility of EMEUNET within their respective countries. Country Liaisons also work closely with the EMEUNET Country Liaison Subcommittee, which provides guidance and support throughout their term, ensuring alignment with EMEUNET’s goals and facilitating collaboration across countries.

Country Liaisons (CLs)

One of the key responsibilities of Country Liaisons is to disseminate information prepared by EMEUNET to young rheumatologists and researchers in their countries. This information includes newsletters, courses, job opportunities, surveys, and other relevant content. By sharing this information, country liaisons can keep their members up to date on the latest developments in the field of rheumatology and encourage them to participate in EMEUNET/EULAR activities.

Additionally, Country Liaisons are encouraged to present information about EMEUNET in national meetings aimed at increasing the visibility of EMEUNET within their countries. These meetings could include workshops, seminars, or other events that help young rheumatologists and researchers learn more about EMEUNET and the benefits of becoming a member. By engaging with their members at a local level, Country Liaisons can foster a sense of community, improve networking, and encourage greater participation in EMEUNET/EULAR activities. Finally, Country Liaisons are encouraged to keep in touch with EMEUNET and provide feedback and suggestions to help improve their outreach efforts and better serve their members.

This position applies to all countries that have EULAR Scientific Member Societies.

Advisory Country Liaisons (Advisory CLs)

The Advisory Country Liaison (Advisory CL) is a newly established senior role designed to support continuity and mentorship within the Country Liaison structure. This position is intended for individuals who have previously served as a Country Liaison or have been actively involved in an EMEUNET Sub-Committee for at least two years. Advisory CLs mentor current CLs, help generate ideas for local and national activities, participate in Country Liaison Sub-Committee meetings, and contribute to the selection and onboarding of new CLs. Their guidance ensures a smoother transition and a more substantial presence of EMEUNET activities in their countries.

This dual structure—one CL and one Advisory CL per country—is currently piloted in selected countries, particularly those with larger rheumatology communities. If successful, it is expected to be implemented more broadly to enhance support, continuity, and outreach at the national level.

This position has been initiated in selected countries and is planned to expand to other countries with EULAR Scientific Member Societies.

Who can apply?

All EMEUNET Community members who belong to the country where the Country Liaison position is available are eligible to apply for the role.

Organizing calls for Country Liaison vacancies occurs when a position becomes available. To maintain consistency, these calls are grouped together at a specific time of year, prior to the EULAR congress.

When the Open Call is launched, it is announced via the EMEUNET website and social media channels. Country Liaisons and Subcommittee Members from the respective countries are requested to actively disseminate the call and encourage applications within their national networks.

1. Be registered in the EMEUNET Community (not registered yet? You can register here)
2. Be a resident of an EULAR member country of application
3. Have an interest in research and/or education in rheumatology
4. Be under 40 years of age at the time of the application
5. Be motivated to serve as national ambassadors in coordination with EMEUNET|EULAR in the country where they live

Note: There is no age restriction for the Advisory Country Liaison position. However, applicants must have at least two years of experience as a former Country Liaison or current/former EMEUNET Sub-Committee (SC) member.

How is the selection performed?

1. All applications are collected, including a motivation essay and a brief CV.
2. The Country Liaison Subcommittee scores the applications, and the current Country Liaison may act as a consultant.
3. The decision is communicated to the EMEUNET Committee for its approval.
4. The application process is competitive.
5. Selection is based on:

• Motivation
• Scientific merit
• Prior contribution to EMEUNET

Your motivation essays are a highly valued part of the application. We encourage you to:

• Show your commitment to EMEUNET’s mission
• Share your vision for EMEUNET’s future
• Highlight your skills and interest in social media, which are growing aspects of EMEUNET’s activities.

Notes:

1. If the current Country Liaison needs to step down before the end of their term, the EMEUNET Country Liaison Subcommittee will appoint an 'Interim CL' to avoid disruption in national activities. This is done in consultation with the outgoing CL, the Advisory CL (if available), and current or former Subcommittee members from that country. The Interim CL role is voluntary, temporary, and not guaranteed to become permanent. However, the appointed individual is welcome to apply when the following official Open Call is launched.
2. In cases where a Country Liaison steps down before the end of their term, a formal Open Call for a new CL from that country is planned for the next regular selection round. However, if this period exceeds six months and the appointed Interim CL demonstrates consistent engagement, reliability, and alignment with EMEUNET values, they may continue in the role as Country Liaison without the need for a new selection process. This exception aims to ensure continuity and recognize the valuable contribution of proactive individuals. The final decision is made by the Country Liaison Subcommittee, in agreement with the Advisory CL and relevant Subcommittee members from that country.
3. Each Country Liaison position is valid for three years. At the end of the third year, an Open Call is launched to allow other candidates to apply. In cases where no applications are received — especially in countries with a small community of young rheumatologists — the previous CL (or Interim CL) may be kindly asked to continue in their role to ensure continuity and representation.

Please read more and apply here          

 Deadline: Thursday, 15 May 2025