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Defence Scientist in Smart Structures and Advanced Diagnostic Systems

Duties:

The DSTO Science & Technology (S&T) Structure allows for flexibility at this level where work is recognised in terms of Research, Professional, Technical, S&T Management and Research Leadership. For this position, work is expected to occur as follows:

• Research 60%
• Professional 20%
• S&T Management - 10%
• Research Leadership 10%

WORK DESCRIPTION AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

The position will be located in the Smart Structures and Advanced Diagnostics Group of the Aircraft Materials Branch of the Air Vehicles Division. The successful applicant will carry out research and professional activities, provide S&T management and research leadership within the group on the development, assessment and demonstration of structural health monitoring systems based on optical fibre sensing technologies. The aim is to integrate these technologies into structural health monitoring systems within military platforms, especially aircraft.

Under broad direction, the successful applicant will be required to undertake:

1. High quality scientific research in relation to the design and development of optical fibre-based sensing applied to in situ structural health monitoring systems.
2. Professional activities associated with the implementation, evaluation and experimental validation and flight demonstration of in situ structural health monitoring systems on military platforms.
3. Effective S&T management of staff and resources.
4. Research leadership in identifying and proposing novel optical fibre sensing technologies, techniques and concepts for aircraft structural health monitoring systems. Contribute to S&T planning and management activities within the Smart Structures and Advanced Diagnostics Group of DSTO’s Aircraft Materials Branch.

PRESCRIBED QUALIFICATIONS:

An appropriate professional qualification from an Australian tertiary institution in a relevant discipline, or a comparable qualification, or relevant experience, which in the opinion of the Secretary is appropriate to the duties of the office. A higher degree relevant to the responsibilities of the position is desirable and will be an advantage.

KNOWLEDGE:

Scientific knowledge and research skills in optical fibre-based sensing systems.

Demonstrated knowledge and understanding of research methods, scientific and engineering principles in these fields.

SKILLS AND ABILITIES:

Scientific research ability, including the ability to conceive research problems and undertake scientific research requiring a considerable degree of originality, creativity and innovation. The ability to define and solve complex scientific problems. Demonstrated persistence and application in the solving of difficult scientific problems. The ability to develop research objectives and implement appropriate strategies within a research project and to plan, allocate and monitor resources. Ability to provide leadership and to create and maintain a high level of teamwork and co-operation.

PERSONAL ATTRIBUTES:

Well developed communication and interpersonal skills, including the ability to liaise and interact effectively with all parties on research activities and objectives, and to work effectively both as an individual scientist and with a research team. The ability to explain complex information and concepts to staff. The ability to report research findings to clients and to present results of scientific work orally and in writing, and the ability to represent the interests of the organisation, particularly in promoting its corporate objectives and research. Good written communication skills and evidence of a substantial contribution to the body of scientific knowledge through published and unpublished works.

JUDGEMENT/INITIATIVE:

Capacity to broaden the scientific research base and to adapt to changes to research projects or programs, and an ability also to broaden the fields of scientific research from that covered by formal training and scientific background. Problem solving skills and the capacity to demonstrate judgement, originality and creativity in the establishment of new principles and their application to new or existing processes or technologies

SPECIAL FEATURES:

The successful applicant must qualify for a security clearance to SECRET level for this security-designated position. Willingness to work on Defence-related tasks is essential. The occupant may be required to participate in field trials.

Professional contact:

If you need more information about this position, please contact Dr Steve Galea on (03) 9626 7634.

Information Pack and Personal Particulars Form: An Information Pack and Personal Particulars form is available on this page under Attachments.  Candidates should read the Information Pack to ensure that they are aware of all the requirements of the position.  Candidates are required to submit a completed Personal Particulars form with their application. 

For information on how to address the selection criteria, go to: http://www.defence.gov.au/apscareers/howtoapply.htm

Send applications to:

Email your Microsoft Word format application to:

victasjobs@defence.gov.au

It is important when sending your application that you quote the job reference number and your name eg. "DSTO/31201 – Your Name" in the subject line so your application can be passed to the relevant selection panel co-ordinator for further consideration and action.

It is important when sending your application that you quote the job reference number and your name eg. "– Your Name" in the so your application can be passed to the relevant selection panel co-ordinator for further consideration and action.

IMPORTANT: Your application needs to be received by the recruitment unit no later than 5pm Thursday 19 November 2009.

Australian Public Service conditions apply. Applicants should be Australian citizens or eligible and willing to apply for citizenship. Defence embraces workplace equity and diversity principles.