Research Leader: Beam Line Centre (BLC) - (Hay Level 19 Internal/External)

Job Purpose To lead and provide support to the Necsa research environment, to execute and manage larger scale and complex projects with multiple specialists, support personnel and team members. To collaborate closely with other related Groups in Necsa. In the BLC environment, the main purpose of the job is to provide technical leadership and steer projects to ensure operational availability of the research instruments and their application in materials research. The job requires an in-depth knowledge that underlines the multi-disciplinary scientific disciplines within which the above are relevant. This requires a well-developed knowledge base on the principles of neutron and X-ray scattering and imaging, understanding of the instrumentation requirements and their value addition in material sciences. The incumbent will also take the lead in ensuring that the facilities are widely accessible and used by the scientific and industrial communities. An important aspect of this job is to define proposed solution approaches and translate them into project plans. It is expected that the incumbent keeps abreast of and contribute to latest developments in neutron scattering and x-ray modalities, as well as instrumentation developments and applications. Key Performance Areas: Knowledge Dissemination Direct, lead and guide technically specialised research and innovation in the unit toward the achievement of departmental objectives and key performance indicators (Publications, Substantial research reports and Conference contributions). Oversee and promote knowledge creation and dissemination by setting and managing appropriate KPI targets for staff. Ensure that research output from the unit/section maintains impact and quality relevant at National and International level. At individual level, maintain a level of national and international standing as expert in the area of specialisation, confirmed by strong innovation, publication or patenting record and functions in international peer-review processes. Oversee development of publications as well as research and client reports. Human Capital Development Guide talent management and high-level training of staff and leverage opportunities for post-graduate training at Tertiary Institutions through establishment of formal cooperation programs. Ensure implementation of Knowledge Retention Plans (KRP’s - aligned to IDP’s) of staff, particularly for roles identified as critical. Promote mentoring and skills transfer within the Group. Develop research capacity through internal staff development, as well as new appointments, and develop suitably qualified and experienced personnel via further training and education. Ensure that the working environment contributes to improving staff morale and productivity. Have an individual track record of supervision and graduation of post-graduate level students and have established interaction with academia to further the image of Necsa and enhance the technology development pipeline. Contribution to NECSA business processes Initiate and execute research tasks with no supervision. Act as project initiator and leader. Ensure that achieved KPIs are relevant to the Necsa technology development pipeline, and contribute to sustainable growth aligned to the mandate of the department. Ensure that contract research targets for the unit/section are met, and manage the progress of projects within the section/unit through identified KPIs. Manage the science/research interfaces with collaborators, partners and clients and other stakeholders and promote a culture of excellence and innovation. Establish strategic partnerships with industry and scientific bodies that add clear value to Necsa business and the National System of Innovation (NSI). SHEQ and other audits Oversee and manage an ingrained Safety Culture in the unit/section. Perform Discipline Manager Duties for responsible facilities to ensure compliance with SHEQ, NNR and SAHPRA regulations. Ensure that quality, safety, licensing and regulatory guidelines relevant to the function of the unit/section are reflected in work procedures, and are adhered to. Manage the implementation of audit findings, non-conformances and corrective actions using the Necsa EMP. Financial Management Compile the unit/section budget, for approval by higher management and manage the bottom-line of the Group in line with the Department targets. Effectively manage delegated financial authority and conform to delegation limits. Manage income targets and expenditure in line with approved budgets, and report progress and variances on a regular basis as required (including forecasting). Ensure Group compliance to Necsa approved procurement processes. Increase income generating opportunities by industrial engagement and/or awarding of grants (funding applications). Direct initiatives to grow non-grant research funding. Key Knowledge & Skills Necsa Group expert in area of neutron and x-ray scattering and imaging techniques. Leadership skills example: Situational Leadership, Investment in Excellence Necsa expert in BLC principles, implementation and applications in the existing neutron beam and x-ray techniques. Project/Group budget drafting, forecasting and management Competencies (Job Specific and Behavioural) Able to work in a research team as leader Anticipating and Managing Change Holistic / big picture thinking Judgement and decision-making