Laboratory Head (Terrestrial Environmental Radiochemistry)(P5)

Organizational Setting

The Department of Nuclear Sciences and Applications implements the IAEA's Major Programme 2, "Nuclear Techniques for Development and Environmental Protection". This Major Programme comprises individual programmes on food and agriculture, human health, water resources, environment and radiation technologies. These programmes are supported by laboratories in Seibersdorf, Monaco and Vienna. The Major Programme's objective is to enhance the capacity of Member States to meet basic human needs and to assess and manage the marine and terrestrial environments through the use of nuclear and isotopic techniques in sustainable development programmes.

The Division of Physical and Chemical Sciences is responsible for assisting and advising Member States in research and development for the nuclear sciences, especially the physical and chemical sciences. Specifically, the Division provides support to Member States in the following fields: production of radioisotopes and radiolabelled products for applications in health care and industry; radiation source applications; research reactor utilization; applications of accelerators and nuclear instrumentation; nuclear and atomic data for applications; controlled nuclear fusion and isotope hydrology and geochemistry.

Main Purpose

As a manager and team leader reporting to the Section Head of the Radioisotope products and radiation technologies (RPRT), the Head of the Terrestrial Environmental Radiochemistry (TERC) Laboratory develops and implements the IAEA's policy and programme on providing technical support to Member States for monitoring and assessment of terrestrial and atmospheric environment by the use of nuclear techniques and technologies. The incumbent leads the Laboratory's activities in these areas to ensure the efficacy of the IAEA's programme on a global level and is responsible for the management of the Laboratory's financial and human resources.

Role

The Laboratory Head is: (a) an innovative technical lead and substantive expert, who plans, directs, coordinates, manages and supervises activities in the area of terrestrial and atmospheric environmental analysis and assessment using nuclear technologies in accordance with Member States' needs and monitors their implementation; (b) a team leader in a specialized, multilateral environment with diverse views on the issues, ensuring the efficient and effective management of the assigned staff and analytical machines in line with quality management standards, ISO accreditation and the results based approach, finding practical solutions and presenting arguments that can achieve results; (c) adviser, providing analysis and background information to the Director and SH-RPRT for the formulation of strategies and policies related to the Laboratory's technical responsibilities, and facilitates their implementation; (d) coordinator and officer responsible for the technical support of the Laboratory to the IAEA's technical cooperation programme and for promotion, coordination and evaluation of coordinated research projects (CRPs) in the relevant fields; (e) facilitator of cooperation with other organizations and with other Departments in the IAEA dealing with this area of work.

Functions / Key Results Expected

Plan, coordinate, monitor and supervise the implementation of activities of the Laboratory in accordance with Member States' needs: ensure innovative methodologies, policies and strategies, quality management standards and a results based approach. Propose and develop new initiatives based on the use of nuclear techniques focused on assessment of emergent contaminants affecting Member States. Oversee all steps relevant to the preparation and distribution of terrestrial and atmospheric reference materials. Liaise with and respond to the priorities of Member States and International Organizations requiring expertise and assistance in terrestrial and atmospheric environmental pollution. Cooperate with the IAEA Marine Laboratories in Monaco and with other laboratories in the integration of nuclear and isotopic techniques for environmental processes understanding. Continue development of related technical support programmes, including equipping, training and pilot monitoring studies as well as proficiency testing, together with interagency partners. Ensure the continued high standing and recognition of the IAEA in the scientific community by publishing reports, manuals and scientific papers associated with the above activities, representing the IAEA at national and international meetings as required, establishing and maintaining contacts with other scientists and relevant international organizations, committees and scientific societies.

Competencies and Expertise

Core Competencies

table { border-collapse: collapse; } table, th, td { word-wrap: break-word; valign="top"; } Name Definition Communication Encourages open communication and builds consensus. Uses tact and discretion in dealing with sensitive information, and keeps staff informed of decisions and directives as appropriate. Achieving Results Sets realistic targets for himself/herself and for the team; ensures availability of resources and supports staff members in achieving results. Monitors progress and performance; evaluates achievements and integrates lessons learned. Teamwork Encourages teamwork, builds effective teams and resolves problems by creating a supportive and collaborative team spirit, remaining mindful of the need to collaborate with people outside the immediate area of responsibility. Planning and Organizing Sets clearly defined objectives for himself/herself and the team or Section. Identifies and organizes deployment of resources based on assessed needs, taking into account possible changing circumstances. Monitors team’s performance in meeting the assigned deadlines and milestones.Functional Competencies

Name Definition Commitment to continuous process improvement Assesses the effectiveness of functions and systems as well as current practices; streamlines standards and processes and develops innovative approaches to programme development and implementation. Partnership building Identifies interests and goals common to the Agency’s partners and its stakeholders to foster partnership building. Promotes collaboration with partners, colleagues across teams and stakeholders. Technical/scientific credibility Provides guidance and advice in his/her area of expertise on the application of scientific/professional methods, procedures and approaches.Required Expertise

Function Name Expertise Description Nuclear Science Nuclear Sciences and Applications In-depth knowledge of the principles and practice of the use of isotopic techniques in environmental assessment.Qualifications, Experience and Language skills

Advanced university degree (Master's or equivalent) in chemistry, environmental science with strong background in radiochemistry and/or nuclear chemistry.

At least 10 years of relevant experience (post-graduated) in environmental research, of which least 3 years in national and international setting are desirable. Experience in human and financial resource management including experience in leading teams effectively, setting clear goals, roles and responsibilities. Experience in the management of complex projects. Experience in high quality research related to atmospheric and terrestrial environment as evidenced in peer reviewed publications In-depth knowledge of analytical techniques and methods relevant to the preparation of reference materials. Demonstrated ability to manage human, financial and material resources to achieve stated objectives and to plan and manage work programmes. Demonstrated ability to lead and motivate a team of professional and support staff and provide effective guidance to them. Awareness of current issues in the field of radiation and transport safety which may influence the IAEA's environment programme. Ability to build and maintain strategic partnerships and alliances with a wide range of stakeholders in the IAEA and in Member States to ensure the visibility and impact of the Laboratory's activities. Strong ability to deliver presentations/briefings to a diverse target audience and ability to write and edit analytical and policy documents. High standards of integrity, fairness and transparency to ensure and promote a work environment based on mutual respect and trust. Strong interpersonal skills to deal effectively with internal and external stakeholders. Fluency in spoken and written English is essential. Working knowledge of at least one additional official IAEA language (Arabic, Chinese, French, Russian or Spanish) would be an advantage. Working knowledge of German would be an asset.

Remuneration

The IAEA offers an attractive remuneration package including a tax-free annual net base salary starting at US $90664 (subject to mandatory deductions for pension contributions and health insurance), a variable post adjustment which currently amounts to US $ 32730*, dependency benefits, rental subsidy, education grant, relocation and repatriation expenses; 6 weeks' annual vacation, home leave, pension plan and health insurance

------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 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. The IAEA is committed to applying the highest ethical standards in carrying out its mandate. As part of the United Nations common system, the IAEA subscribes to the following core ethical standards (or values): Integrity, Professionalism and Respect for diversity. 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 with a different contract type, 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 -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------