Isotope Analyst

Job Posting Organization:
The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) was established in 1957 and is headquartered in Vienna, Austria. The IAEA's mission is to promote the peaceful use of nuclear energy and to prevent its use for military purposes. The organization operates in over 170 countries and has a workforce of approximately 2,500 employees. The IAEA's Major Programme 2 focuses on 'Nuclear Techniques for Development and Environmental Protection', which includes various programs aimed at enhancing the capacity of Member States to meet basic human needs and manage environmental resources sustainably.

Job Overview:
The Isotope Analyst position is integral to the IAEA's efforts in applying nuclear technologies to support Member States in achieving their development goals, particularly in the management of water resources. The role involves providing technical expertise in the development and application of nuclear techniques, specifically focusing on low to ultra-low level tritium analysis in environmental samples. The Isotope Analyst will work closely with the Isotope Hydrology Laboratory Head and will be responsible for planning and conducting technical meetings, evaluating Technical Cooperation projects, and promoting coordinated research projects in water resources management. This position requires a proactive approach to developing and implementing programs that utilize isotopes for water resource assessment and management, ensuring that the IAEA's initiatives align with the priorities of its Member States.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Isotope Analyst will have a diverse set of responsibilities, including: developing isotope analytical methods, particularly for tritium analysis in water and organic materials; ensuring the continuous operation of tritium analysis workflows while maintaining quality assurance and control standards; conducting synthesis and analysis of tritium and other radio-isotope distributions in various water sources; providing technical guidance to Member States in project design and implementation; assisting in the planning and execution of activities related to water resource management; evaluating technical cooperation projects and developing action plans; organizing and participating in seminars, workshops, and training courses; managing coordinated research projects and technical meetings; and contributing to administrative reports for senior management.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a Doctorate Degree in Geochemistry, Chemistry, Environmental Physics, or related disciplines, along with some academic, research, or work experience in the Geosciences. A minimum of five years of practical experience in isotope analyses and their application for water resource assessment and management is required. Candidates should have substantial experience in conceiving and implementing field or laboratory research projects, proficiency in geospatial and hydrological models, and a strong technical background in nuclear techniques related to water resources management. Excellent writing skills, demonstrated through scientific publications, are essential, as well as the ability to analyze technical and scientific information effectively.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a Doctorate Degree in relevant fields such as Geochemistry, Chemistry, Environmental Physics, or closely related disciplines. This advanced degree should be complemented by academic or practical experience in the Geosciences, particularly in isotope analysis and its applications in water resource management.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of five years of practical experience in isotope analyses, specifically in the context of water resources assessment and management. Candidates should have a proven track record of successfully implementing research projects, both in the field and laboratory settings, and should be familiar with the principles of natural resource management, particularly in relation to water resources. Experience with laboratory methods for tritium analysis is highly desirable, as is a strong technical background in nuclear techniques relevant to water resource management.

Languages:
Proficiency in English is mandatory, with excellent oral and written communication skills. Knowledge of other official IAEA languages, such as Arabic, Chinese, French, Russian, and Spanish, is considered an asset and may enhance a candidate's application.

Additional Notes:
The IAEA offers a competitive remuneration package, including a tax-free annual net base salary starting at US $70,212, along with a variable post adjustment and various benefits such as dependency benefits, rental subsidy, education grant, and relocation expenses. Employees are entitled to six weeks of annual leave, home leave travel, and are covered by a pension plan and health insurance. The IAEA is committed to diversity and encourages applications from qualified women and candidates from developing countries. The appointment is subject to a satisfactory medical report, and staff members may be assigned to any location as per the IAEA's rotation policy.