The Svalbard Integrated Arctic Earth Observing System (SIOS)
The Svalbard Integrated Arctic Earth Observing System (SIOS) is a consortium that coordinates state of the art research infrastructure and observational capacity owned by its members, with the aim of advancing high-quality environmental and climate change research in the Svalbard region. At the heart of this initiative is the SIOS Knowledge Centre (SIOS-KC), located in Longyearbyen, which serves as the central operational hub of SIOS.
SIOS Svalbard AS, a limited company owned by UNIS AS, acts as the legal entity for the consortium and is the formal employer of the staff working at SIOS-KC. The consortium comprises 29 international institutions engaged in research activities in and around Svalbard. The position is based at the SIOS-KC offices in the Svalbard Science Centre in Longyearbyen, Norway, where a dedicated team of six employees currently supports the consortium’s activities.
As part of our team, you will work in Longyearbyen and have the opportunity to experience spectacular Svalbard firsthand. This modern Arctic community of around 2,500 inhabitants offers beautiful wilderness, outstanding outdoor recreation, and a vibrant cultural life.
About the position
The Research Infrastructure Officer will focus on coordinating access and logistical services and advancing the development of the observing system. Your work will foster innovation and encourage new technologies and methods to improve observation capabilities and decrease the environmental footprint of research in pristine Arctic environment. You will closely collaborate with research infrastructure coordinators from SIOS member institutions.
The Research Infrastructure Officer is expected to follow the scientific progress and discussion in the field of Arctic Earth System Science. The Research Infrastructure Officer will take part in the preparation and management of externally funded projects, supporting the further development of the SIOS observing system. Furthermore, the Research Infrastructure Officer will take part in representing SIOS in international scientific programmes and initiatives. The position might be given other tasks in certain periods and reports to the SIOS director.
List of primary tasks
Implement and develop physical and remote access to SIOS Research Infrastructures
Implement and develop the SIOS Observation Facility Catalogue
Support harmonisation of SIOS Core Data
Act as secretary of the Research Infrastructure Coordination Committee (RICC) of SIOS
Foster synergies in field logistics
Contribute to the sustainability of SIOS with an active role in Pan Arctic and European Research Infrastructure networks and externally funded projects
Foster new methods and techniques to improve environmental observations and decrease the environmental footprint of research in Arctic settings
Qualifications
Required qualifications
Postgraduate university degree (preferably Ph.D.) in a SIOS-relevant field of natural science or engineering
Expertise in experimental Arctic earth system science
Proven project management experience
Practical experience with field operations in the Arctic
Excellent in both written and oral English
Beneficial qualifications
Experience working with Research Infrastructures*
Experience with attracting external funding related to research or research infrastructures
Network of contacts in Arctic research
Experience in research in Svalbard
Experience in collaboration with industry
Experience from living in the Arctic
Proficient in Norwegian or other Scandinavian language, or openness to learn Norwegian.
We welcome applications from structured, result-oriented and creative team players with an innovative and problem-solving attitude. Personal attributes of the successful candidate are essential.
*Research infrastructure refers to the facilities, resources and services that support the research community in conducting high-quality research and fostering innovation. This includes major scientific equipment, data collections, computing systems, and communication networks that are accessible to researchers.
We offer
SIOS-KC offers a dynamic role in a collaborative, multi-disciplinary and international environment. You will join a sociable work environment that offers flexible working hours and family-friendly practices in full accordance with Norwegian employment regulations.
This is a permanent position available to start as soon as possible, though a fixed-term arrangement can be negotiated if preferred. We cover free arrival passage for you and your family, along with relocation expenses associated with starting your employment according to applicable regulations.
Additionally, you will receive membership in the Norwegian Public Service Pension Fund (SPK), which provides one of the best pension schemes on the market. We also offer excellent insurance schemes and staff housing in accordance with current regulations.
The position is classified under the job code “Advisor/Senior Advisor” (code 1434/1364), depending on experience. In addition to the base salary, SIOS-KC provides Svalbard allowance of NOK 42.840 per annum. A 2 % contribution to the Norwegian Public Service Pension Fund is deducted from the salary. The income tax rate in Svalbard is currently 8 %, and a national insurance contribution of 7.7 % is also deducted.
Please include the following documents to the online application form:
Curriculum vitae
Education certificates
Contact information for two references
The committee may ask for further documentation of the education history and former work experience described by the applicant.
It is possible to request that your name/application be exempt from public disclosure in accordance with the Freedom of Information Act (Offentlighetsloven) § 25. The request must be justified. Please note that if the request is not granted, the applicant will be contacted and given the opportunity to withdraw the application.
Diversity, Equity and Inclusion
We are committed to achieving diversity within the workforce and creating an inclusive working environment. We therefore welcome applications from all qualified candidates irrespective of gender, sexual orientation, beliefs, age, or other characteristics.
Selection and appointment
A committee will evaluate the qualifications of the applicants. Based on the report, the top ranked person(s) will be invited for an interview. The appointment will be made based on the recommendation from the evaluation committee.
