The Head of Earth Science/Chief Researcher is accountable for leading the Earth Sciences Section of the Museum’s Science, Research and Collections function which comprises mineralogy and palaeontology. The Head of Earth Science/Chief Researcher has overall responsibility for this collection area, its conservation, access and acquisition. The incumbent will lead the section’s research activity, grant applications, publication and communication of research findings in the fields of mineralogy and paleontology, while also sourcing external funding for and undertaking their own individual research and publication of findings specific to mineralogy.
Results area
- The Earth Science section of the Museum’s Science, Research and Collections function is managed, maintained and improved to build, preserve and communicate an understanding of the natural and cultural world.
- The Earth Science’s mineralogy and paleontology collections are acquired, catalogued, conserved, stored and made accessible to the public and other interested parties.
- The Museum’s Public Engagement Programme objectives are delivered in relation to the Earth Science collection and research findings.
- The Earth Science’s research program for the advancement and understanding of mineralogy and paleontology is established and managed, including preparation of a program of coordinated research activities, preparation of grant applications, overseeing the work of professional staff, ensuring research methodologies are appropriate, and publishing the resultant findings.
- The discipline of mineralogy at the national and/or international level is advanced through conceiving research projects, sourcing external funds, carrying out research and communicating the results to specialists in this discipline, members of the public and other interested parties.
- Leadership, direction, performance management, coaching and mentoring is provided to the Earth Sciences team.
- A significant contribution is made to the strategic direction, planning, funding, and performance of the Science section as a senior member of the Science, Research and Collections Group, including ensuring that strategies and activities are relevant to the State’s economic priorities.
- The SA Museum and South Australian government are professionally represented at national and international conferences, events and other relevant discourses relating to the disciplines of mineralogy and paleontology, including speaking and presenting on research findings and the Museum’s collection.
- Opportunities for applied research are identified and capitalised on through liaison and negotiation with external organisations, other government departments, educational institutions, and other interested parties.
Specific Requirements:
- Some out of hours work may be required to fulfil the responsibilities of the role.
- Intra state, interstate and possibly international travel may be required.
- Use of hazardous materials requiring special work procedures and protocols.
- Speaking and lecturing as required.
- Participate in recovery activities relating to emergency management.
How to apply:
For further enquiries regarding the position please contact Steve Cooper, Head of Biological Science, South Australian Museum on: 08 8313 5575 or email [email protected]
To apply for this position and access a copy of the role statement please visit www.vacancies.sa.gov.au and quote vacancy number (620/2015).
Applicants are required to address Section B of the Role Statement as well as providing a written Cover Letter and CV including three professional referees.
