Committee Member - MNF Research Advisory Committee

• Exciting opportunities exist to join the Marine National Facility (MNF) Research Advisory Committee
• Work alongside respected experts to facilitate excellent marine and atmospheric research for the nation

Established by the MNF Steering Committee (MNF SC), the overarching purpose of the Research Advisory Committee (RAC) is to provide advice to the MNF SC on the research quality of applications for sea time on RV Investigator.

About the roles

It is a role that is always interesting, sometimes challenging,
and critically important to the proper functioning
of the MNF in Australia’s national interest.

The MNF 2030 strategy commits to facilitating excellent marine and atmospheric research. Marine research is a rich and diverse field of endeavour and most projects undertaken on board RV Investigator are multidisciplinary in nature. RAC membership is intended to reflect a diverse knowledge base.

To fill the current vacancies on the committee, the MNF SC is seeking applicants with expertise in biological oceanography, physical oceanography, climate systems, and/or maritime heritage.

To be successful, you will need to demonstrate the following attributes:

• ability to communicate effectively with a range of research and industry stakeholders
• capacity to critically assess research proposals
• a broad understanding of marine and atmospheric scientific domains appropriate to assess proposals for use of the research vessel
• demonstrated track record in a research discipline relevant to the MNF. This round of appointments seeks to appoint expertise from biological oceanography, physical oceanography, climate systems, and/or maritime heritage disciplines
• experience undertaking research on a blue-water research vessel.
  

RAC members are invited as experts in their field and not as representatives of any employer or research agency.

The RAC usually meets face-to-face once per annum to finalise assessment of applications for sea time. Meetings will generally be held in Hobart with all travel costs covered by the MNF. It is estimated that each assessment process will require up to 80 hours work spread between June and October each year, culminating with the meeting in Hobart. Additional video-conference meetings and out of session consultation may also be required.

Appointment is for a fixed term of three years with the possibility of reappointment for additional terms. Provided eligibility criteria outlined in the CSIRO Pay and Benefits determination are met, sitting fees will be payable for meetings and work outside of meetings.

A notable benefit of sitting on the RAC is the opportunity to obtain greater insight into the assessment process for granted voyage applications. Committee members are not excluded from submitting or being party to applications and a robust process for managing conflicts of interest is in place.

Visit https://mnf.csiro.au/en/About/Governance-and-committees/Research-Advisory-Committee to find out more about the RAC and to view the Terms of Reference.

How to Apply

Please email a single document including your cover letter and CV to [email protected]. Your cover letter should address the attributes listed above and demonstrate your motivation and ability to meet the requirements of this role.

Applications close: 11:59pm AEDT, 2 April 2023

Contact

If you require further information, please contact MNF SC Secretariat at [email protected] or 03 6232 5097.

About CSIRO

At the Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation (CSIRO), we shape the future. We do this by using science to solve real issues to unlock a better future for our community, our economy, our planet.

We're Australia's national science research agency. At CSIRO, we solve the greatest challenges using innovative science and technology. Find out more! http://www.csiro.au/

About the Marine National Facility

Funded by the Australian Government, owned and operated by CSIRO with advice from of an independent Steering Committee, the MNF provides a blue-water research capability to the Australian scientific community and their international collaborators.

The MNF is based at CSIRO’s Marine Laboratories in Hobart, Tasmania, which is also home port for research vessel Investigator. Research obtained from voyages provide critical information to directly support government, industry and other stakeholders in making evidence-based decisions to ensure the long-term viability and prosperity of Australian marine industries.

The MNF comprises: an ocean class research vessel Investigator; a package of scientific equipment and instrumentation; a collection of more than 35 years of marine data; the expertise required to manage an ocean going research platform and support to vessel users; and an independent Steering Committee and advisory committees. http://mnf.csiro.au