Chief Scientist, Australia Telescope National Facility

Acknowledgement of Country

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The opportunity

• Work for Australia’s National Science Agency and the ATNF
• Contribute to the global effort to understand our Universe
• Set the strategic direction for CSIRO’s astrophysics research 

About CSIRO

At CSIRO, Australia's national science agency, we deliver transformative, positive impacts through science and technology. Named the most trusted government service in 2022 by Roy Morgan’s Trusted Brand Awards, we collaborate with universities, government, industry and innovative communities across the country and internationally. With over 6,000 staff, we contribute to Australia’s national prosperity, environmental sustainability and social wellbeing. 

About the Australia Telescope National Facility

With over 350 staff, we operate several radio astronomy observatories and data archives collectively known as the Australia Telescope National Facility (ATNF), the only facility of its kind in the southern hemisphere. Our technology development program is the cornerstone of the ATNF and is an internationally recognised source of innovative radio astronomy instrumentation.  
 
The ATNF has been involved with the international SKA project from its inception, and our ATNF locations, telescopes and engineering expertise are in an excellent position to support and extend the science goals of the SKA telescopes over the next decade. 
 
The ATNF is part of CSIRO’s Space & Astronomy research unit, and together we aim to enable humanity to understand our Earth and Universe.  

The role

​​​​​​​Reporting to the ATNF Program Director, the ATNF Chief Scientist will set the direction for CSIRO’s astrophysics research.  You will be responsible for developing the strategy for the ATNF research capability and lead the interface with the global astronomy community.  You will oversee a portfolio of astronomy/astrophysics research projects, working with the ATNF leadership team to ensure major projects are well-resourced, and to set long-term science impact KPIs (including publications).

You will be an internationally recognised scientist with a world leading reputation in the astronomy/astrophysics domain. You will be a strategic thinker and an inspirational leader who will drive innovation and collaboration through mentoring and coaching of others.

This is your opportunity to lead in a world-class radio astronomy facility, where the associated technology and instrumentation is amongst the best globally. 

Note, we are also recruiting the Program Director that this role reports to as well as the wider ATNF leadership team, so please ensure you share with your relevant networks. 

• Head of Science
• Head of Operations
• Head of Software & Scientific Computing
• Head of Instrumentation
• Chief Engineer 
• Chief Technologist

Location: Sydney (Marsfield) or Perth (Kensington), Australia are the preferred locations

Salary: Attractive salary package plus 15.4% superannuation, negotiable for the right candidate

Tenure: Specified term of five years with the possibility of an underlying indefinite research appointment. Full-time. 

Reference: 97641

About you

We are seeking an internationally recognised scientist, who is a strategic, innovative and collaborative leader with: 

• A PhD (or an equivalent combination of qualifications and research experience) in radio astronomy, astrophysics or a related area. 
• An international reputation in the radio astronomy / astrophysics domain as evidenced by international awards, being a highly cited researcher or recognised expert in their field.
• Demonstrated experience in applying strategic thinking to setting the direction of an R&D organisation.
• A demonstrated record of adherence to professional ethics and conduct, including professional and respectful workplace behaviour and a commitment to promoting diversity and inclusion. 
• The willingness and ability to travel interstate and internationally, as required.

For a detailed overview of the role and responsibilities, please review the Position Description.

Eligibility

Applications are open to all candidates who meet the requirements of the role. (VISA sponsorship will be provided to the successful candidate as required). 

Note: the successful candidate will be required to undertake a National Police Clearance or equivalent and there may be other security/medical/character clearance requirements. 

Flexible working arrangements

We work flexibly at CSIRO, offering a range of options for how, when and where you work. Find out more about our approach to work-life balance.

Diversity and inclusion

We are working hard to recruit people representing the diversity across our society, and ensure that all our people feel supported to do their best work and feel empowered to let their ideas flourish. 

We encourage applications from all backgrounds.

Child safety

CSIRO is committed to the safety and wellbeing of all children and young people involved in our activities and programs. View our Child Safe Policy.

How to apply

Please apply on-line with a curriculum vitae and cover letter or summary (no longer than 1,000 words) outlining the motivation for applying and a high-level summary response to the selection criteria described in the position description.

Applications close

Wednesday 18 September 2024, at 11.59pm (Australian Eastern Standard Time)

We encourage early applications as late applications will not be accepted.