IAEA Research Laboratory Assistant (G-6)

Duty Station:	Monaco
Issue Date:	28 June 2012
Application Deadline:	25 July 2012
Type of Appointment:	Either a Fixed-term appointment (if the candidate already holds a Fixed-term appointment) or Temporary-assistance appointment (in all other cases) may be offered, both subject to a probationary period of 1 year
CCOG codes:	2.R, 2.J.02

Organizational Setting

The IAEA Environment Laboratories (NAEL) are a Division of the Department of Nuclear Sciences and Applications and consists of four laboratories three of which are located in Monaco, and one in Seibersdorf (approximately 45 km south of Vienna). NAEL implements the Environment Programme under Major Programme 2. The part relevant to the marine ecosystem is implemented in Monaco, and the part relevant to the terrestrial ecosystem is implemented in Seibersdorf. The Division operates in a complex matrix environment with inputs from many parts of the organization, such as the Department of Technical Cooperation, for implementation of several projects as well as other Departments for horizontal collaborations. The Director's office is located in Monaco. The Radiometrics Laboratory (RML) has expertise in the fields of marine radiochemistry, low level radioactivity measurements, modelling of radionuclide dispersion and transfer in the marine environment, environmental and radiological assessment, marine radioactivity data base management, and radiotracer applications in oceanographic, pollution and climate studies. RML collaborates with Member States laboratories to assist them in their developments and to implement capacity-building technical cooperation projects. Under its programme, RML develops methods for the measurement of radionuclides in marine samples in normal and emergency situations, carries out numerous sea missions, supports analytical quality in Member States laboratories and provides individual and group training. RML comprises of five Professional staff and seven support staff. RML has been developing a strong network with Member States. Duties are undertaken primarily in Monaco with some international travel including sampling campaigns on research vessels.

Main Purpose

Under the general supervision of the Head of RML, the Research Laboratory Assistant contributes to the development of new techniques to analyse marine samples on radionuclides, the preparation of samples, sample analysis, planning of and participation in marine cruises and assistance in the supervision of trainees. The tasks and their relevance to the IAEA's programmes are defined after discussion with the supervisor. The incumbent is expected to take initiative in the organization of the tasks in order to meet requirements and deadlines. Recommendations on techniques, procedures, sampling missions and supervision of trainees and more junior laboratory support staff are expected. Regular review of work is carried out to ensure accuracy of detail.

Working Relationships

The Research Laboratory Assistant works in a laboratory team and contributes to complex tasks with responsibility for radioanalytical work. He/she will assist the scientific staff with monitoring the various steps in the sample collection and analysis process while making decisions to deal with deviations or abnormalities observed. These may include suggestions for modified procedures and/or testing to ensure safety of property and personnel in the laboratory. The Research Laboratory Assistant will also have direct contact with Member State scientists and trainees during implementation of field studies or training programmes and will also contribute to the quality management system of the laboratory.

Functions / Key Results Expected

Support the Laboratory Head in the organization of work for other support staff of the laboratory. Conduct a few hundred radiochemical determinations of radionuclides in marine samples per year. Contribute to development of new radiochemical methods of analysis of marine samples. Perform non-radioactive analysis of marine samples, e.g. particle size distribution, organic and total carbon analysis, trace elements etc. Evaluate data, prepare figures, tables and reports. Prepare and participate in 1-2 sampling missions per year partly on research vessels or other sampling campaigns. Train 1-2 trainees per year and participate in training courses.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

Good knowledge of laboratory techniques and procedures and of radiochemistry and separation methods. Good skills with nuclear instrumentation. Ability to perform strenuous work in a standing position, with some walking and occasionally carrying heavy samples and instruments. Some knowledge of chemical oceanography would be an advantage. Excellent interpersonal skills, including the ability to operate effectively within a team and to establish and maintain working relations in a multicultural, multi-ethnic environment with sensitivity and respect for diversity.

Education, Experience and Language Skills

Completion of secondary education with specialized training in chemistry, preferentially analytical chemistry, radiochemistry, or a closely related field. University degree is desirable. Minimum of six years of relevant experience in analytical chemistry, radiochemistry or relevant analytical techniques, including routine instrument operation and maintenance. Experience with sample preparation techniques relevant for environmental analytical techniques. Experience in data quality management, inter-laboratory studies, proficiency tests and the production of reference materials. Good knowledge in written and spoken English. Knowledge of another IAEA official language (Arabic, Chinese, French, Russian, or Spanish) an advantage. English language tests (Level 2) to IAEA standard.

Remuneration

The IAEA offers an attractive remuneration package including a tax-free annual net base salary starting at €39 810 (subject to mandatory deductions for pension contributions and health insurance), six weeks' annual vacation, pension plan and health insurance.

How to Apply

Internal and external applicants need to complete an IAEA Personal History Form. Internal applicants are required to apply online at https://personnel.iaea.org. External applicants are required to apply online athttp://recruitment.iaea.org. You can find more information about employment opportunities and working at the IAEA at http://www.iaea.org/About/Jobs. No e-mail or hard-copy application will be accepted. All applicants will be informed of the outcome of their application in due course. Applications received after the application deadline will not be considered. Applicants who do not comply with the aforementioned application guidelines or do not meet the essential requirements specified in this Vacancy Notice will not be considered. Appointment is subject to a satisfactory medical report. Recruitment will be on a LOCAL BASIS only.Outside applicants are required to supply to the IAEA or to authorize it to seek all information relevant to their suitability for employment by the IAEA. Testing may be part of the recruitment process.

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 with a different contract type, or to make an appointment with a modified job description or for shorter duration than indicated above.