
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.
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:
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.
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.

Minerals, metals and advanced materials are key enablers to achieve the objectives of the European Green Deal. Today, only a fraction of the most relevant raw materials is produced in Europe. This can be changed through a circular economy approach, through innovation in recycling, substitution, processing, mining, and exploration. It is the objective of EIT RawMaterials to secure a sustainable raw materials supply by driving innovation, education, and entrepreneurship across European industrial ecosystems.
EIT RawMaterials provides a collaborative environment for disruptive and breakthrough innovations by connecting business with academia, research, and investment. It also invests in future generation of innovators for the raw materials sector through initiatives ranging from education of school students to higher qualifications for industry professionals.
The company is committed to supporting Europe’s transition towards a circular, green, and digital economy whilst strengthening its global competitiveness and securing employment. On this foundation, EIT RawMaterials has been mandated by the European Commission to lead and manage the European Raw Materials Alliance (ERMA).
EIT RawMaterials is an Innovation Community within the European Institute of Innovation and Technology (EIT).