Description:
- Chief of Division Grade 1
- Australian Antarctic Division
- Hobart, TAS
Who we are
The Australian Antarctic Division (AAD) is part of the Commonwealth Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water (DCCEEW). It plays a key role in advancing Australia’s national Antarctic interests through scientific research, environmental stewardship, and international collaboration. AAD is responsible for delivering Australia’s scientific research and operational activities in Antarctica and the Southern Ocean, guided by the Australian Antarctic Strategy and 20-Year Action Plan and the following priorities:
- Upholding the Antarctic Treaty System and strengthening Australia’s influence within it.
- Protecting the Antarctic environment.
- Advancing understanding of Antarctica’s role in the global climate system.
- Conducting scientific research of practical, economic, and national significance.
The Antarctic Treaty designates Antarctica as a natural reserve dedicated to peace and science. Through its research, AAD helps Australia contribute to and uphold the Treaty’s environmental protection framework.
We provide the Australian Government with expert, science-based advice and partners with other government agencies, international counterparts, universities, states and territories, the private sector, and research institutions to deliver Antarctic science and operations.
Australia’s Antarctic science program is highly collaborative, involving more than 150 national and international research institutions. Australia also engages in joint scientific operations with other nations' Antarctic programs. Leading this effort, the Chief Scientist will require exceptional strategic leadership to shape both AAD’s work and the broader Australian Antarctic Program.
Our team is made up of diverse professionals based primarily in Tasmania, Antarctica, and Macquarie Island. We are dedicated to ensuring a safe and inclusive workplace.
The Job
The Chief Scientist will represent the AAD and lead collaboration with the broader Australian scientific community to deliver world-class research and environmental management. This work supports Australia’s Antarctic policy objectives, including participation in the Antarctic Treaty System and other international forums.
The Chief Scientist will oversee a diverse research program, including studies in physical and life sciences across wildlife, atmospheric, terrestrial, and marine domains and human biology research. The program includes long-term observational activities such as meteorological networks, ionospheric activity monitoring, seismic and magnetic studies, GPS networks, and hydrographic and bathymetric mapping.
This role also leads the department’s engagement with national and international Antarctic science communities and will coordinate and implement research aligned with the Australian Antarctic Strategy and 20 Year Action Plan.
Working with the Head of Division and other executives, the Chief Scientist is part of AAD’s leadership team, collectively responsible for delivering a transformational agenda to advance Australia’s Antarctic Program.
Key Responsibilities
The Chief Scientist will lead a high-performing team of research scientists, technical specialists, and policy coordinators to drive science that informs sound environmental policy. This role requires exceptional leadership capabilities to:
- Guide teams in delivering world-class scientific support for the Australian Antarctic Program.
- Collaborate across government, the Antarctic science community, and international Antarctic programs to drive strong research outcomes and shape policy advice.
- Represent AAD at external forums, high-level discussions, governance committees, and negotiations with key stakeholders and partner organisations.
The AAD Chief Scientist will have excellent strategic leadership capabilities and credibility in leading complex multidisciplinary science programs. Their experience and capabilities will transfer to the effective strategic leadership of Australia’s Antarctic Science program.
The role requires:
- Leading the strategic direction of Australia’s Antarctic Science Program, ensuring alignment with national priorities, scientific excellence, and opportunities for impactful research.
- The ability to work collaboratively within the AAD/DCCEEW Executive and broader government to advance Australia’s Antarctic interests and deliver on the goals of the Australian Antarctic Science Program
- Extensive experience leading complex, multidisciplinary science programs with credibility in the global scientific community, including a commitment to the highest standards of environmental protection, ensuring responsible and sustainable scientific research in Antarctica.
- A compelling and engaging communicator who can articulate AAD Science's vision, value, and impact and represent the AAD in national and international scientific and policy forums, influencing decision-making and fostering collaboration.
- The ability to cultivate cooperative partnerships across science, policy, and government sectors to strengthen the impact of Australia’s Antarctic Science program.
- A proven track record of leading diverse teams, fostering an inclusive and collaborative workplace and driving excellence in science, policy, and technical areas.
- A commitment to enhancing diversity in research, increasing participation from underrepresented groups, and early career researchers.
- A high level of cultural competency, including an understanding of the issues affecting First Nations people and the ability to communicate sensitively and effectively with Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander peoples.
- A high personal and professional credibility, demonstrating ethical leadership, resilience, and commitment to action.
- A results-oriented mindset, able to engage with risk, navigate challenges, and drive meaningful outcomes in a dynamic and high-profile environment.
Eligibility and other requirements
Citizenship - To be eligible for employment with the Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water you must be an Australian citizen.
Security Clearance - This position requires a Negative Vetting 2 security clearance. You will be required to obtain and maintain a clearance at this level for this role.
For additional information, please read the Job Description below.
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