Vacancy Notice No. 2008/079
Position and Grade: Gamma Spectrometry Specialist (P-3)
Organizational Unit: Chemistry Unit
Physics, Chemistry and Instrumentation (PCI) Laboratory
Agency's Laboratories (Seibersdorf and Headquarters)
Department of Nuclear Sciences and Applications
Duty Station: Seibersdorf, Austria
Issue Date: 23 September 2008
Application Deadline: 5 November 2008
Type/Duration of Appointment: Fixed term, 3 years (subject to a probationary period of 1 year)

Organizational Setting
The International Atomic Energy Agency's (IAEA) Laboratories are located in Seibersdorf, approximately 45 km south of Vienna. Their main objective is to contribute to the implementation of the IAEA's programmes in food and agriculture, human health, physical and chemical sciences, water resources, industry, environmental management (terrestrial), radiation protection and safeguards verification.

The Physics, Chemistry and Instrumentation (PCI) Laboratory, which is a section of the IAEA's Laboratories at Seibersdorf, provides scientific and analytical services in the nuclear and nuclear-related sciences. It also assists Member States through applied research and development and is active in the training of scientists from developing countries. The PCI laboratory consists of four Units, the Chemistry Unit, the Dosimetry Unit, the Instrumentation Unit and the Isotope Hydrology Unit.

The Chemistry Unit supports Member State laboratories to enhance the quality of analytical measurement data both in trace element and radionuclide determination. This is accomplished through the provision of matrix reference materials and validated procedures, training, and through the evaluation of measurement performance by organization of proficiency tests and intercomparison exercises. The Chemistry Unit also coordinates an international network of Analytical Laboratories for the Measurement of Environmental Radioactivity (ALMERA).

Main purpose
Under the supervision of the Unit Head, and with technical guidance from the Environmental Radiochemist, the Gamma Spectrometry Specialist is responsible for maintaining and operating the Chemistry Unit gamma spectrometry laboratory.

Role
The Gamma Spectrometry Specialist is: (1) a provider of technical support and guidelines to users of radioanalytical techniques in Member State laboratories; (2) an instructor of trainees in the field of methodology and applications of radioanalytical techniques; (3) a specialist, providing substantive advice to other staff of the Chemistry Unit.

Partnerships
The Gamma Spectrometry Specialist interacts with his/her counterparts from laboratories around the world and represents the Agency at a technical level in a number of venues, especially those focused on gamma spectrometry and other radioanalytical techniques, and applications.

Functions / Key Results Expected
  • Ensure that the target outputs of the Programme are met in terms of analytical quality and timeliness by performing measurements of samples, including of candidate reference and proficiency test materials, using gamma spectrometry equipment and writing reports on the results.
  • Provide technical advice and guidelines on the effective use of radioanalytical equipment to Member States laboratories, including organization of technical meetings.
  • Contribute to the development and modification of instruments and advanced analytical methodologies for gamma spectrometry, and writes scientific papers.
  • Provide training and supervise fellows on methodology and applications of radioanalytical techniques.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities
  • Knowledge of gamma spectrometry and other radioanalytical techniques, and applications.
  • Knowledge of computer applications and programming in support of gamma spectrometry.
  • Practical skills in handling and using gamma spectrometers, and other radioanalytical equipment.
  • Knowledge of basic principles of quality assurance and quality control for nuclear analytical techniques.
  • Strong analytical skills.
  • Confirmed skills in writing reports and scientific papers.
  • Interpersonal skills:
    • Ability to work and interact effectively with a team of technical and scientific staff involved in applications of gamma spectrometry.
    • Ability to work in a multicultural environment with respect and sensitivity for diversity.

Education, Experience and Language Skills
  • University (or equivalent) degree in nuclear physics or analytical chemistry.
  • At least five years' working experience in radioanalytical techniques with an emphasis on gamma spectrometry.
  • Teaching experience in methodology and applications of radioanalytical techniques with an emphasis on gamma spectrometry.
  • Fluency in spoken and written English essential. Working knowledge of German an advantage.

NOTE: The incumbent of the post will be considered to be a radiation worker and be subject to an appropriate programme of physical and special medical surveillance arranged by the IAEA.

Remuneration
The Agency offers an attractive remuneration package including a tax-free annual net base salary starting at US $52 408 (subject to mandatory deductions for pension contributions and health insurance), a variable post adjustment which currently amounts to US $31 550*, dependency benefits, rental subsidy, education grant, relocation and repatriation expenses; 6 weeks' annual vacation, home leave, pension plan and health insurance.

How to apply to the IAEA

* Subject to change without notice

Applications from qualified women and candidates from developing countries are encouraged

Applicants should be aware that IAEA staff members are international civil servants and may not accept instructions from any other authority. Staff members may be assigned to any location. The IAEA retains the discretion not to make any appointment to this vacancy, to make an appointment at a lower grade or to make an appointment with a modified job description or for shorter duration than indicated above. Testing may be part of the recruitment process.