This position leads a small dynamic team that provides leadership and administration for the Australian Antarctic Science Program. This includes high level project management, administration of science project approvals and reporting processes, leading project planning and prioritisation processes and supporting scientists and researchers to plan and deliver their research programs. This position works closely with internal and external stakeholders, Australian and international universities and research agencies and across the Australian Antarctic Program. Who we are The Australian Antarctic Division (AAD) is part of the Commonwealth Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water. As primary agency for Australia's Antarctic Program (AAP), the AAD is responsible for achieving the Australian Government's Antarctic goals. These goals are to: Maintain the Antarctic Treaty System and enhance Australia's influence within it. Protect the Antarctic environment. Understand the role of Antarctica in the global climate system. Undertake scientific work of practical, economic and national significance. The AAD also has responsibility for administering the Australian Antarctic Territory and the Territory of Heard Island and McDonald Islands. The AAD Science Branch leads, conducts and supports a world class program of scientific research and environmental management, consistent with national priorities through the Australian Antarctic Science Strategic Plan. The branch provides research and advice to support Australia's Antarctic policy objectives, including participation in the Antarctic Treaty system and other international committees, commissions and intergovernmental panels. It manages and administers the Australian Antarctic Science Program (including project requests, assessment, and reporting) and provides scientific and research advice to support regulatory and management decisions. The branch provides scientific advice for Antarctic capability projects, conducts impact assessments and develops strategies to address environmental legacies and undertakes targeted outreach promoting the value of Australian Antarctic science. The Science Planning & Coordination Section administers the Australian Antarctic Science Program to ensure the delivery of world class science that meets the policy needs of government as outlined in the Australian Antarctic Science Decadal Strategy. The section manages and facilitates scientific partnerships and collaborations. This includes: High-level stakeholder engagement for administration of projects within the Australian Antarctic Program. Science project application, assessment & evaluation processes. Strategic alignment of research campaigns & projects. Major science campaign coordination & science program assistance. Secretariat to the Australian Antarctic Science Council. Administration of Australian Antarctic Science Program publications. The key duties of the position include Under broad direction from the Branch Head, Science, the Director of Science Planning and Coordination will: Lead the Science Planning and Coordination team to administer the Australian Antarctic Science Program, ensuring effective governance and probity, sound decision making, and personnel and resource management. Provide strategic advice on the prioritisation of research activities in the Australian Antarctic Program and the performance of the Australian Antarctic Science Program. Establish and maintain effective stakeholder relationships including with researchers, universities, research organisations, and government agencies. Work effectively across the Australian Antarctic Division and associated agencies to support integrated forward planning for the operationalisation of research activities. Actively contribute to the Australian Antarctic Division leadership team including to ensure a respectful and positive workplace. Ensure timely, quality reporting and advice on the planning and performance of the Australian Antarctic Science Program. Represent the Australian Antarctic Science Program and the AAD Science Branch in internal and external forums and effectively communicate science program priorities and outcomes. What you'll gain from the experience An opportunity to directly support Australia's Antarctic Science Program. A chance to work with world leading scientists to drive strategically important science outcomes in Antarctica, the subantarctic and Southern Ocean. Use your skills and experience in research management to lead the administration of a national science program. Be part of a multidisciplinary science branch and contributing to the leadership of the Australian Antarctic Division. What we are looking for We are seeking candidates who can demonstrate the following: Research management or public administration leadership in a research setting would be highly regarded. Demonstrated written and verbal communication and stakeholder management skills, and the ability to engage and communicate with a broad range of stakeholders, with influence. For detailed information about the job-specific capabilities for this role, please view the Job Description which can be downloaded from our website - the Apply Now link will take you there.
