Job Description

We are looking for an outstanding scholar with excellent, interpersonal and leadership skills to lead our Information and Computational Sciences (ICS) department.


The James Hutton Institute is an internationally-recognised research organisation delivering science which improves food and environmental security and supports sustainable communities. The ICS department is one of five science Departments in the James Hutton Institute. There are currently around 50 members of the department, undertaking research in bioinformatics, geoinformatics, soil science, community planning, policy options appraisal, risk assessment and integrated complex systems modelling, as well as research computing and high-performance computing (HPC). As well as working closely with colleagues across the Institute, the department it works closely with BioSS and other computational groups at national and international levels to ensure that the institute's research is able to capitalise on the opportunities that arise from state of the art computational sciences. For further information see Information and Computational Sciences - James Hutton Institute


The successful candidate will be responsible for leading and managing the ICS department including strategic planning, financial and budgetary oversight, and maintaining, developing, and assigning research capability to ensure excellence and delivery of the Institute's science strategy. This includes ensuring the highest standards of research integrity and ethics are maintained, as well as compliance with quality management systems and HSQE.


They will also contribute to the strategic direction of the wider institute as part of the Institute Management Team, working closely with the Digital Transformation Office and other committees as appropriate.


The ideal candidate will have an international reputation in one or more of the scientific areas associated with the ICS Department and will be expected to deliver knowledge exchange through appropriate media and events. Experience of working at a senior management level, working in an inter-disciplinary environment, and liaising with a wide range of stakeholders are all highly desirable.

Main purpose of job:

The Head of Department will be responsible for leading and managing the ICS department including strategic planning, staff management, financial and budgetary oversight, and maintaining, developing, and assigning research capability to ensure excellence and delivery of the Institute's science strategy. They will also contribute to the strategic development of the wider institute, through working as part of the Institute Management Team and other committees as appropriate.


Working with senior scientists, ensure delivery of world class scientific research outputs and capability across the range of discipline areas associated with the ICS Department, and develop and mentor staff to achieve their full potential.


Working as part of the Institute Management Team, Science Strategy Group, other relevant committees, as well as working with the Digital Transformation Office, contribute to the strategic development of the institute as a whole and the delivery of the corporate plan.


Work with Group Leads and senior scientists in the Department in the planning, development and delivery of the ICS vision and strategy, including the five yearly Science Review, aligning with the Institute's science strategy and wider strategic aims.


Review facilities and capabilities at least annually and develop and maintain up-to-date Implementation and Operational Plans.


Working with senior colleagues to attract funding including developing and overseeing a strong income generation and grant review culture within the Department.


Ensure smooth operation of the ICS Department including working with ICS colleagues to review resources, optimize time allocations, manage redeployment, and optimise structural aspects of ICS including identifying and filling recruitment requirements in line with agreed budgets.


Support the career development of ICS colleagues, through annual appraisal systems, career reviews and direct engagement.


Ensure the highest standards of research integrity and ethics, HSQE and compliance with quality management systems.


Work to support the development of relationships with campus partners and other collaborating organisations, to the benefit of the Department. Maintain a personal research portfolio in a relevant field, maintaining an international profile and delivering knowledge exchange through appropriate media and events.


he post could be based in either Aberdeen or Dundee, the locations of the Institute's two main campus. Members of the Department are located on both campuses and there will be a requirement to travel between sites.


For further information and to apply please visit www.hutton.ac.uk/careers


The James Hutton Institute is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.


As they are under-represented in this area of our work we would particularly welcome applications from women.


We will not consider the use of 3rd party recruitment agencies for the sourcing of candidates for this position.


The James Hutton Institute is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.


The James Hutton Institute is a: Stonewall Diversity Champion; Athena SWAN Bronze Status Holder; Disability Confident Committed Employer and a Living Wage Employer.


The James Hutton Institute is Happy to Talk Flexible Working.