Head of Earth System Physics Section

Job Advertisement

Position Title: Head of Earth System Physics Section
Location: Trieste
Country: Italy
Deadline Date: 02-DEC-2024

Job Details

Job Posting Organization:
The Abdus Salam International Centre for Theoretical Physics (ICTP) was founded in 1964 by the 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 ICTP aims to foster international collaboration and scientific excellence, particularly in the fields of theoretical physics and related disciplines. The organization operates with a commitment to promoting scientific research and education in developing countries, thereby contributing to global scientific advancement and capacity building.

Job Overview:
The Head of Earth System Physics Section at ICTP will be responsible for leading a team of research scientists and defining new research directions in the field of Earth System Physics. This position requires the incumbent to engage in strategic planning and resource allocation to implement research initiatives effectively. The role involves promoting ICTP's mission in developing countries and designing joint activities within the Research and Partnerships Division. The incumbent will also ensure scientific excellence by recruiting talented scientists and research fellows, building strategic partnerships, and collaborating with the Institute Advancement Unit to secure funding for research programs. Teaching responsibilities include delivering courses and mentoring students, post-doctoral fellows, and visitors, thereby contributing to the educational mission of ICTP.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The incumbent will perform a variety of duties including:

• Leading scientific research by identifying, developing, and managing research activities, while providing strategic advice on research priorities.
• Building partnerships with leading research institutions globally to facilitate scientific collaboration.
• Ensuring high scientific standards in existing research programs and mentoring staff and fellows.
• Representing ICTP at international scientific meetings and reporting on research outcomes.
• Providing technical advice on educational and training programs related to Earth System Physics.
• Participating in funding initiatives and advocating for capacity building in developing countries.
• Teaching and supervising students in ICTP's international programs.
• Organizing scientific meetings and outreach activities, particularly in developing countries.
• Managing individual research grants and overseeing the scientific needs of developing countries.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree (Ph.D. or equivalent) in Physics, Earth Sciences, or related disciplines. They should have a minimum of ten years of relevant post-doctoral research experience, with at least five years at an international level. A proven publication record of high caliber and international recognition is essential, along with technical expertise in handling complex scientific issues. Experience in designing, implementing, and managing scientific projects, as well as in teaching and mentoring students, is required. Candidates should also have experience in donor relations and managing research collaborations with developing countries, along with demonstrated supervisory experience.

Educational Background:
The position requires an advanced university degree, specifically a Ph.D. or equivalent, in Physics, Earth Sciences, or a closely related field. This educational background is crucial for understanding the complexities of Earth System Physics and for leading research initiatives effectively.

Experience:
The ideal candidate should have a minimum of ten years of relevant post-doctoral research experience in Physics or a related field. This experience should include at least five years at an international level, demonstrating the ability to work in diverse and multicultural environments. Candidates should have a strong publication record and experience in managing significant scientific projects, as well as in teaching and mentoring students at various academic levels.

Languages:
Excellent knowledge of English, both spoken and written, is mandatory for this position. Knowledge of Italian or another official UNESCO language (Arabic, Chinese, French, Russian, Spanish) is considered desirable and may enhance the candidate's profile.

Additional Notes:
The position is a fixed-term contract for a duration of two years, open to both internal and external candidates. The approximate annual starting salary for this post is 126,114 USD, and benefits may include 30 days of annual leave, family allowance, medical insurance, and a pension plan. The recruitment process will involve an online application, and candidates will be evaluated based on the criteria outlined in the vacancy notice. Selected candidates will undergo reference checks and may be assessed through tests or competency-based interviews. UNESCO emphasizes the importance of diversity and encourages applications from under-represented groups.