Director AEON Africa Earthe Observation Network Research Support and Management DVC RII

HR Genie; Gqeberha; On-site; ZAR 80 000 - 150 000; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player is seeking a visionary Director for the Africa-Earth Observatory Network. This pivotal role involves leading strategic research projects, fostering collaborations, and promoting transdisciplinary science to tackle sustainability challenges across Africa. The successful candidate will oversee all AEON initiatives while engaging with national and international stakeholders. With a focus on strategic planning and execution, this position offers an exciting opportunity to shape the future of Earth Stewardship Science. Join a dynamic team dedicated to innovative research and impactful community engagement.

Qualifications

• Proven leadership and publication record in Earth sciences.
• Experience in managing large-scale research projects.

Responsibilities

• Lead strategic research projects addressing sustainability challenges.
• Develop collaborations and secure funding for initiatives.
• Oversee AEON initiatives and report to university management.

Skills

Strategic thinking

Interdisciplinary bridging skills

Geophysics expertise

Marine geoscience knowledge

Leadership skills

Project management

Financial management

Education

PhD in Geophysics or Geology

Master's degree in related field

Job description

The role of the AEON Director is to provide overall leadership and vision to the Africa-Earth Observatory Network (AEON), a leading transdisciplinary Earth Stewardship Science Research Institute. The institute aims to foster a university-wide research and educational environment that integrates earth and life sciences, resource economics, and human and cultural sciences through Earth Stewardship Science.

Position Info: Nelson Mandela University reserves the right not to make an appointment. Preference will be given to candidates from designated groups in line with the university's Employment Equity Plan.

Core Purpose of the Job: The Director will lead strategic research projects, develop collaborations, and promote transdisciplinary science to address sustainability challenges in Africa. The role involves overseeing all AEON initiatives, reporting to the Deputy Vice-Chancellor: Research, Innovation and Internationalisation (DVC: RII).

Key Performance Areas:

1. Strategic planning and execution aligned with institutional and global environmental goals.
2. Development of project proposals and securing funding.
3. Stakeholder engagement at national and international levels.
4. Supervision of postgraduate students and research fellows.
5. Expansion of AEON membership and attracting research talent.
6. Ensuring alignment with AEON’s vision, mission, values, and objectives.
7. Facilitation of community engagement, teaching, research, and outreach activities.
8. Strategic liaison with university management and external partners.
9. Reporting on projects and initiatives; leading funding efforts and recruitment.

Core Competencies:

• Strategic thinking and interdisciplinary bridging skills.
• Expertise in geophysics or geology at a continental scale.
• Knowledge of marine geoscience, exploration geophysics/geology, and modeling.
• Proven leadership, research, and publication record.
• Experience managing large-scale research projects and securing funding.
• Ability to facilitate learning and work collaboratively.
• Strong leadership, management, and financial skills.