Research Scientist (P-4) Organizational Unit: Radiometrics Laboratory

Application Deadline:	8 November 2011
Type/Duration of Appointment:	Fixed term, 3 years (subject to a probationary period of 1 year)

Organizational Setting

IAEA Environment Laboratories (NAEL) is a Division of the Department of Nuclear Sciences and Applications and consists of four laboratories three of which are located in Monaco, and one in Seibersdorf (approximately 45 km south of Vienna). NAEL implements the Environment Programme under Major Programme 2. The part relevant to the marine ecosystem is implemented in Monaco, and the part relevant to the terrestrial ecosystem is implemented in Seibersdorf. The Division operates in a complex matrix environment with inputs from many parts of the organization, such as the Department of Technical Cooperation, for implementation of several projects as well as other Departments for horizontal collaborations. The Office of the Division Director is located in Monaco. The Radiometrics Laboratory (RML) has expertise in the fields of marine radiochemistry, low level radioactivity measurements, modelling of radionuclide dispersion and transfer in the marine environment, environmental and radiological assessment, marine radioactivity data base management, and radiotracer applications in oceanographic, pollution and climate studies. RML collaborates with Member States laboratories to assist them in their developments and to implement capacity-building technical cooperation projects. Under its programme, RML develops methods for the measurement of radionuclides in marine samples in normal and emergency situations, carries out numerous sea missions, supports analytical quality in Member States laboratories and provides individual and group training. RML comprises of six Professional staff and seven support staff. RML has been developing a strong network with Member States.

Main purpose

As a member of the Radiometrics Laboratory led by the Laboratory Head, the Research Scientist has to organise the processing of numerous marine samples/year for analysis on natural and artificial radionuclides and is responsible for the relevant project in the IAEA's programme. She/he contributes to develop new techniques for contamination and process studies in coastal zones using radioactive and stable isotopes.

Role

The Research Scientist is: (1) a programme developer and implementer, contributing to the planning and development the IAEA's programme in the specific area of measurement and assessment of in coastal zones; (2) a scientific secretary/technical expert, planning and leading technical meetings and developing strategies to support environmental assessment and networking of marine laboratories and (3) a project officer, coordinating and evaluating complex coordinated research projects (CRPs) aimed at promoting nuclear analytical techniques of a high quality in support of marine environmental research (4) a technical officer, providing scientific and technical input to developing, planning and implementing complex technical cooperation projects.

Partnerships

The Research Scientist provides support, technical guidance and advice to other scientific staff in the Marine Environment Laboratories in the area of his/her expertise. She/he also interacts with scientists from Member States' laboratories to advise, provide and develop guidelines on technical and methodological developments and harmonization in the area of marine radioactivity in coastal zones. He/she promotes partnership building with appropriate UN organizations, regional marine Commissions, collaborative scientific projects and other relevant institutions. Additionally, the incumbent works with appropriate technical departments within the IAEA to support collaborative projects in the area of radionuclide measurement and assessment and operational activities in the area of radiation protection.

Functions / Key Results Expected

Support the Laboratory Head in planning and implementing the programme in the specific area of contamination studies in coastal zones. Provide support to development and implementation of new radiometric techniques. Promote, coordinate and evaluate complex CRPs, and conduct related complex studies. Provide scientific and technical support to technical cooperation projects, in particular to regional and inter-regional projects aiming to harmonize methodologies and strategies in the area of marine environmental studies using nuclear and associated techniques. Plan, organize and conduct training for complex technical topics. Provide guidance and input to the preparation of reports. Participate in meetings and conferences according to programmatic needs. Represent the IAEA in working groups and experts meetings in support of collaborative research and project management. Promote collaboration with other UN organizations and Regional Seas programmes.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

In-depth knowledge and experience in natural and artificial radionuclides in the marine environment. Thorough knowledge of strategies and methodologies for analysis of radionuclides, modelling of dispersal and transfer of radionuclides for marine geochemical processes and exposure pathways. Proven ability to network in complex research and capacity-building projects with partners within and outside of the organization. Good understanding of the IAEA CRP and TC scheme. Computer literacy for common office and scientific software. Demonstrated ability to train fellows and interns in the area of marine radioactivity in coastal zone contamination. Ability to conduct and supervise laboratory work and applied research. Demonstrated skills in the organization of meetings and conferences. Communication skills: Good presentation skills and ability to communicate easily and well with both technical and non-technical staff at all levels. Good skills in writing documents. Interpersonal skills: Ability to establish and maintain effective working relations with IAEA staff at all levels and with scientists and technical staff from Member States. Demonstrated ability to work in a team environment involving scientific, technical and administrative staff. Proven ability to work in a multicultural environment with respect and sensitivity for diversity.

Education, Experience and Language Skills

Advanced university degree in chemistry (radiochemistry) or a closely related science with a strong background in marine radioactivity. Minimum of seven years of experience in radiometric techniques and their applications to marine studies. Experience in managing national and international programmes. Experience in managing scientific and technical staff as well as scientific research projects. Extensive experience/exposure at the international level. Strong publication record in peer-reviewed journals. Language skills: Excellent command of written and spoken English. Fluency in French desirable. Knowledge of another official IAEA language (Arabic, Chinese, Russian and Spanish) an advantage.

Remuneration

The IAEA offers an attractive remuneration package including a tax-free annual net base salary starting at US $67 395 (subject to mandatory deductions for pension contributions and health insurance), a variable post adjustment which currently amounts to US $44 211*, dependency benefits, rental subsidy, education grant, relocation and repatriation expenses; 6 weeks' annual vacation, home leave, pension plan and health insurance. How to apply to the IAEA Complete an Online Application * Subject to change without notice

Applications from qualified women and candidates from developing countries are encouraged Applicants should be aware that IAEA staff members are international civil servants and may not accept instructions from any other authority. Staff members may be assigned to any location. The IAEA retains the discretion not to make any appointment to this vacancy, to make an appointment at a lower grade or to make an appointment with a modified job description or for shorter duration than indicated above. Testing may be part of the recruitment process.