VASCERN Opens Call for New Network Coordinator

Summary

VASCERN is seeking a new coordinator to lead the network from October 2027. After 10 years of leadership, Professor Guillaume Jondeau will step down at the end of the current budget period. Applications are open to VASCERN members until 5 July 2026.

Application deadline: 5 July 2026
Mandate period: October 2027 – September 2032 (5 years, renewable)
Eligibility: MD with recognised expertise, 1st, 2nd, or 3rd lead of a VASCERN Healthcare Provider Full Member
Application materials due: 5 July 2026 to julie.hallac@aphp.fr

VASCERN is inviting applications for the position of Network Coordinator, a key leadership role that shapes the strategic direction, coordination, and impact of one of Europe’s most dynamic European Reference Networks (ERNs). The Coordinator works closely with members, stakeholders, the patient community, and partners to strengthen collaboration and advance VASCERN’s mission at the European level.

Professor Guillaume Jondeau has led VASCERN with distinction for 10 years. The new coordinator will inherit a well-established network structure and have the opportunity to set priorities and strategies through a new grant application process in Spring 2027. With an annual budget of €800,000, there is significant scope to develop new projects and expand VASCERN’s activities.

What the role offers

The VASCERN Coordinator position provides unique opportunities to influence European health policy and rare disease care. The role includes direct access to the European Commission’s DG Santé, the European Parliament, and programmes such as ERASMUS+. The new Coordinator may also apply for the rotating position of “Coordinator of ERN Coordinators”—a role VASCERN has not yet held.

The Coordinator can shape their coordination team, visit member centres across Europe, and gain visibility for both their work and their institution. Professor Jondeau will provide support and guidance during a one-year transition period to ensure continuity and success.

Eligibility and application process

Candidates must be medical doctors with recognised expertise in rare vascular diseases and hold a position as 1st, 2nd, or 3rd lead of a VASCERN Healthcare Provider Full Member. The role requires a commitment to a five-year mandate, which is renewable.

Applicants should submit a CV with a complete list of publications and a motivation letter by 5 July 2026 to julie.hallac@aphp.fr. Candidates will present their programme at the VASCERN plenary session during VASCERN Days 2026 on 5 November 2026. Elections will take place online via EU Survey in November 2026, with results announced in December 2026.

Professor Jondeau is available to discuss the role with prospective candidates before the application deadline.

Key dates

26 January – 5 July 2026: Application phase (CV and motivation letter submission)
5 November 2026: Candidate presentations at VASCERN Days 2026
November 2026: Elections via EU Survey (two-week period)
December 2026: Results announcement
January 2027 – January 2028: Transition period with Professor Jondeau
October 2027: New Coordinator begins mandate

VASCERN encourages motivated and qualified candidates with a strong commitment to rare vascular diseases, coordination, and teamwork to apply. This is a unique opportunity to shape the future of VASCERN and contribute to advancing care for people living with rare vascular diseases across Europe.

Download the full call for applications document

For further information, contact julie.hallac@aphp.fr.