Who we are
The Office of the Supervising Scientist is responsible for protecting the environment of the Alligator Rivers Region, including Kakadu National Park, from the effects of uranium mining. We conduct independent research and monitoring, participate in and oversee the regulatory process for uranium mining in the region and develop standards and practices for environmental protection.
The Environmental Research Institute of the Supervising Scientist conducts world-leading research for monitoring and assessing the environmental impacts of uranium mining. We are a multidisciplinary institute with research programs spanning environmental radiation, water and sediment quality, ecosystem restoration, geomorphology, omics, drone remote sensing and environmental applications of artificial intelligence. Our Radiation research program focuses on assessing the radiation impacts to the public and the environment from uranium mining activities. Our technical capabilities and current work program include:
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Low level radiochemistry, alpha and gamma spectrometry laboratories
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Measurement of natural decay series radionuclides in air, soil, water and biota (including Aboriginal bush foods)
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Radiation surveys of legacy and rehabilitated uranium mining sites
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Modelling and assessment of radiation exposure pathways to the public and non-human biota from the dispersion and transfer of radionuclides in the environment
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Provision of technical advice on regulatory applications for uranium mining and other radiation-related actions
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Engagement with International Atomic Energy Agency technical programs
For more information about us please visit our website.
The job
- Lead and manage the work program of the radiation team (staff, budget, projects and resources) to ensure the safe and timely delivery of research and monitoring which informs the assessment of radiation impacts to people and the environment from uranium mining activities.
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Apply expert judgement and technical knowledge to determine sampling and analysis requirements to meet research and monitoring objectives, undertake field and laboratory work as required to collect and analyse samples.
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Evaluate radionuclide datasets and apply best practice methods for assessing radiation impacts to people and the environment from uranium mining activities, interpret results in the context of radiation protection standards and publish findings in peer-reviewed journals as lead author.
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Participate in stakeholder meetings and technical forums as a leading authority on radiation monitoring and impact assessment for uranium mining and other radiation-related activities.
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Develop and harness linkages with other government agencies, industry and/or universities for radiation research collaboration and capability building.
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Provide expert advice on regulatory applications for uranium mining and other actions in line with national and international standards for radiation protection.
What you'll gain from the experience
This role offers a niche career opportunity in the vibrant city of Darwin and operates in one of Australia's most unique government science programs. You will gain understanding of the complexities of uranium mine rehabilitation whilst applying your expert scientific knowledge and experience to lead a dedicated work program for assessing the associated radiological impacts.
What we are looking for
We are seeking candidates who can demonstrate the following:
- Expert knowledge of radioactive decay processes and radiation exposure pathways relevant to uranium mining or the ability to translate existing knowledge to this context.
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Expert knowledge of national and international best practice recommendations for radiation protection of the public and the environment.
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Experience conducting radiation impact assessments for the public and the environment, preferably in a uranium mining context.
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Significant standing as a leader in radioecology and/or radiation protection nationally and internationally and proven record of high-quality research papers.
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Experience leading and managing a research program, including staff, budget, projects and resources.
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Highly developed leadership skills that inspire a strong sense of teamwork and achieve results.
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Ability to train and mentor staff to build capability and capacity in radiation measurement and impact assessment.
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Ability to establish and foster research collaborations with other government agencies, industry and/or universities.
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Ability to represent the organisation nationally and internationally at scientific forums and on expert working groups.
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Ability to plan and undertake field work in remote locations for durations of up to a week at a time.
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Highly developed technical writing skills as well as the ability to produce plain English summaries of technical information.
Mandatory qualifications
- A Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) from an Australian University, or qualification of equivalent standard from an Australian or overseas university; or
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Other qualification appropriate to the duties
Additional requirements
- Hold a current Apply First Aid Certificate or have the ability to obtain this qualification.
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Hold and maintain a valid Australian motor vehicle drivers license.
Eligibility
- Citizenship - to be eligible for employment with the Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water you must be an Australian citizen.
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Security Clearance - this position requires a Negative Vetting Level 2 security clearance. You will be required to obtain and maintain a clearance at this level.
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Mandatory qualifications - your suitability for employment will be dependent on you holding relevant mandatory qualifications.
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Pre-employment checks - your suitability for employment will be assessed through a pre-employment screening process. This process includes a requirement to undergo and satisfy a National Police Check, referee checks, character clearance and where required a pre-employment medical assessment, specified mandatory qualification(s) validation and a probation period.
