Head of Section - Mathematics, Senior Research Scientist

Job Posting Organization:
The Abdus Salam International Centre for Theoretical Physics (ICTP) was founded in 1964 by the late Nobel Laureate Abdus Salam. It is located in Trieste, Italy, and is dedicated to providing scientists from developing countries with the continuing education and skills necessary for long and productive careers. The organization aims to promote scientific knowledge and collaboration, particularly in the fields of physics and mathematics, and operates with a commitment to fostering scientific excellence and capacity building in developing nations.

Job Overview:
The Head of Section for Mathematics at ICTP will work under the supervision of the Director and in coordination with the Senior Coordinator for Research and Partnerships. This role involves leading a team of 10-15 research scientists, defining new research directions, and planning the necessary resources for their implementation. The incumbent will be responsible for promoting ICTP's mission in the developing world, designing and implementing joint activities within the Research and Partnerships Division, and ensuring scientific excellence in Mathematics through strategic recruitment of scientists and research fellows. The position also entails representing ICTP at major international scientific events, fostering networking, and providing guidance and mentoring to junior scientists.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The incumbent will have a range of responsibilities including:

• Scientific Research Leadership: Identify, develop, and manage research activities, providing strategic advice on research priorities. Build partnerships with leading research institutions worldwide and ensure high levels of scientific excellence in existing research programmes.
• Programme Leadership: Provide authoritative technical advice on educational and training programmes in Mathematics, contribute to scientific agreements, and advocate for capacity building in developing countries.
• Education and Training: Teach in ICTP's international programmes, supervise Diploma theses, and mentor M.Sc. and Ph.D. students.
• Scientific Organisation and Outreach: Establish cooperation with scientists from developing countries, formulate recommendations to address their scientific needs, and manage individual research grants.
• Competencies: Demonstrate strong communication, accountability, innovation, and teamwork skills, while also leading and empowering others.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree (Ph.D. or equivalent) in Physics or related disciplines. They should have a minimum of ten years of relevant post-doctoral research experience in Mathematics or a related field, with at least five years at the international level. A proven publication record of high caliber and international recognition is essential, along with technical expertise to handle complex scientific issues and determine new research directions. Experience in project design, implementation, management, and teaching or mentoring students is also required.

Educational Background:
An advanced university degree (Ph.D. or equivalent) in Physics or related disciplines is mandatory for this position. This educational background is crucial for understanding the complexities of the scientific research and educational responsibilities associated with the role.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of ten years of relevant post-doctoral research experience in Mathematics or a related field. Candidates should ideally have five years of experience at the international level, demonstrating a strong publication record and the ability to manage and coordinate research collaborations, particularly with developing countries. Experience in donor relations and scientific outreach is also beneficial.

Languages:
Excellent knowledge of English, both spoken and written, is mandatory. Knowledge of Italian or another official UNESCO language (Arabic, Chinese, French, Russian, Spanish) is desirable but not required.

Additional Notes:
The contract is fixed-term for a duration of two years, with the possibility of renewal. The position is open to both internal and external candidates. UNESCO offers a competitive salary, with the approximate annual starting salary for this post being 132,773 USD. Benefits include 30 days of annual leave, family allowance, medical insurance, and a pension plan. The selection process may involve pre-recorded video interviews, written assessments, and reference checks. Candidates are encouraged to apply online by the specified deadline, and all applications will be treated confidentially.