Masdar Institute of Science and Technology (MIST), located in Abu Dhabi, U.A.E., is a private, not-for-profit, independent, graduate-level, research-driven educational organization developed with the support and cooperation of Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT). The goal of Masdar Institute is to develop, over a period of years, indigenous R&D capacity in Abu Dhabi, addressing issues of importance to the region in critical areas such as renewable energy, sustainability, environment, water resources and microelectronics. Starting Fall 2009, Masdar Institute has begun offering graduate degree programs in science and engineering disciplines with a focus on advanced energy and sustainable technologies (www.masdar.ac.ae) and (http://web.mit.edu/mit-tdp/www/).

Sustainable Bioenergy Research Consortium (SBRC): Masdar Institute of Science and Technology has recently launched a multi-year research project into the challenges behind the large-scale cultivation of halophytic plants in arid environments for the sustainable production of fuels and other products. As part of the SBRC, a 200 hectare demonstration facility will be constructed to conduct research into Integrated Seawater Agriculture Systems (ISAS) in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates. This research-oriented ISAS pilot project will focus on integrating the key components of ISAS, including a seawater irrigation system, aquaculture, halophyte agriculture, and mangrove silviculture. One of the main objectives is to develop a system that can produce a feedstock for biojet fuel derived from halophytes, in addition to other products. The ISAS is currently the cornerstone project for the SBRC. However, MIST wishes to expand the portfolio of projects under the SBRC, and as such is seeking to fill the position of Director for SBRC (Faculty Member or Senior Research Scientist). The role of the Director will include chairing the SBRC Advisory Committee Board, setting overall SBRC vision, expanding the portfolio of biofuels projects under the SBRC by creating partnerships with industry and academia, overseeing day-to-day operations, initiating and directing research activities, interacting with industry partners to meet SBRC goals and responsibilities towards its sponsors, and leading pre-commercialization initiatives for projects with significant commercial potential. Example of the types of projects that could be considered under the SBRC include production of biofuels from algae, cellulosic ethanol production from crops produced on marginal desert lands, and improvement of the pathways for energy productions from cellulosic biomass. For consideration, applicants must meet the following requirements;

Specific education requirements

· Ph.D. in a relevant field of science or engineering with research experience

· Mastery of the concepts, principles and practices in the management of research projects related to environmental, agricultural and/or engineering sciences

· Demonstrated leadership and technical knowledge sufficient to manage and lead an interdisciplinary research and infrastructure project

· More than ten years experience and increasingly senior leadership with project management in senior positions in industry or academia

· Demonstrated success in pre-commercialization process development

Additional position requirements

In addition to the requirements listed above, the successful candidate should demonstrate the following attributes:

· Ability to develop and implement SBRC vision and program goals and the ability to make timely and effective decisions and produce results through strategic planning and the evaluation of research needs within the SBRC

· Ability to create enthusiasm and support among potential commercialization opportunities across a broad group of stakeholders

· Ability to identify key issues affecting the SBRC including technological and administrative factors and integration of best practices in management

· Ability to adapt behavior and work methods in response to new information, changing conditions, and/or unexpected obstacles

· Ability to display a high level of initiative, effort, and commitment to the development of the SBRC and potential commercial go ahead decisions

· Ability to implement strategies that will maximize research productivity, and foster high ethical standards in meeting the SBRC vision, mission, and goals

· Ability to oversee the allocation of financial resources and day-to-day project operations including managing the budgetary process and operating the SBRC using organizational procedures that ensure appropriate funding

· Ability to develop an expansive professional network with industry sponsors and other organizations

· Ability to identify factors that impact the progress of the SBRC and address with action

Qualified candidates are requested to submit a CV, cover letter, and a list of three professional references to rcheikha@masdar.ac.ae. Cover letter should detail the candidate’s vision for expanding the portfolio of projects under SBRC.

Salary and Benefits

The compensation plan will be internationally competitive.