Do you have relevant experience in the use of accurate and global data, climate models, and sophisticated analytical and numerical modelling tools for the analysis of large climate model outputs?  Do you enjoy producing new ideas, approaches or insights to problems, working with cross-functional research, engineering, and software development teams? If the answer is yes, this post could be ideal for you! We are located in La Spezia, Italy, just 80 Km north of Pisa, on the Ligurian Coast, providing the ideal location for year-round maritime research and experimentation. 

The Centre for Maritime Research and Experimentation (CMRE) is part of the NATO Science and Technology Organization (STO). CMRE is an established, world-class scientific research and experimentation facility that organizes and conducts scientific research and technology development, centred on the maritime domain, delivering innovative and field tested Science & Technology (S&T) solutions to address defence and security needs of the Alliance.

The Centre for Maritime Research and Experimentation (CMRE) is looking for a scientist to conduct research for Climate Change and Security, in particular the impact of Climate Change on maritime military operations. We are looking for key players with the aim to contribute to the surface and underwater capabilities within CMRE and the NATO Nations.

Role and Responsibilities:

• Support the programme of work in the investigation of Climate Change (CC) impact on the Alliance capabilities, with a focus on the maritime domain.
• Execute research activity in support of the CC&S Programme on the definition of security scenarios in different situations, including but not limited to Maritime Situational Awareness (MSA), monitoring and protecting Critical Underwater Infrastructures (CUIs) and Anti-Submarine Warfare (ASW).
• Author scientific articles and/or revise internal reports to be published in international peer-reviewed journals.
• Support the organization and execution of NATO workshops and conferences; the establishment of Multi-National Projects as relevant in the field of Climate Change & Security (CC&S); the development of proposals for external funding, seeking and winning funding from National Naval R&D funding agencies, National or NATO Multi-National projects, or from European funding mechanisms.
• Lead and/or support the organization of Table-Top exercises (TTX) focused on CC&S scenarios.
• Work closely as required with CMRE projects outside the CC&S Programme, in particular anti-submarine warfare and environmental knowledge and operational effectiveness

SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS AND ADDITIONAL DUTIES

1. Flexibility Clause

• The incumbent may be required to perform other related duties even in other parts of the organization as directed.

• As required by the Program of Work, the incumbent may be asked to participate in working groups or project teams and to coordinate and organize the work of other scientists and staff.

All other related duties should correspond with the required competencies for the job.

2. Deployment/Travel

The incumbent may be required to perform his/her duties onboard Centre or chartered vessels. The incumbent may be required to undertake TDY assignments within and outside NATO boundaries.

c.  Certification

The incumbent needs to be holder a fit for sea certificate in line with the International Maritime Organization (IMO) and International Labour Organization (ILO) standards before taking up duty.

ESSENTIAL QUALIFICATIONS

1. Professional/Experience

• Scientific expertise in physics, meteorology or climate sciences , oceanography or marine sciences, environmental sciences or engineering;
• Proven work experience with climate models and/or analysis of large climate model outputs;
• Strong research record as evidenced by peer-reviewed publications and/or technical reports;
• Background in statistical analysis and data visualization;
• Proven ability to work with standard software and operating systems such as Linux, Windows, MATLAB, Python, C/C

2. Education/Training

MSc degree in scientific related field, and at least 2 years post-graduate experience as Scientist or Engineer with a specific focus on climate, meteorology or oceanography.

3. Language Requirements

A thorough knowledge of one of the two NATO languages (English and French), both written and spoken, is essential and some knowledge of the other is desirable.

English SLP 3333

NOTE:  Work at CMRE is conducted in the English language.

DESIRABLE QUALIFICATIONS

• PhD in any of the following areas: meteorology, climate sciences, oceanography, marine sciences, environmental sciences or engineering, physics;
• Knowledge of data analysis and visualization tools;
• Outstanding record of science publications and/or reports;
• Demonstrated record of accomplishment delivering high-quality reports/research to customers;
• Experience working in multi-disciplinary environments with experts from other domains;
• Experience working in international environments;
• Experience interacting with high-level civilian and/or military decision makers.

ATTRIBUTES/COMPETENCIES

The successful candidate possess the following competencies / personal attributes:

• Excellent communication skills, both oral and written – able to communicate at all levels;
• Very good interpersonal skills. Solicits inputs and encourages others;
• Innovative and driven. Always displaying sound judgement;
• Excellent time management and organizational skills.

All CMRE personnel are expected to conduct themselves in accordance with the current NATO Code of Conduct agreed by the North Atlantic Council (NAC), and thus display the core values of integrity, impartiality, loyalty, accountability, and professionalism.

1. REMARKS

The duties are mostly performed in an office environment, but staff may be required to work on board a vessel.

About Us:

The Centre for Maritime Research and Experimentation (CMRE) is part of the NATO Science and Technology Organization (STO).  The mission of the STO is to help position both national and NATO science and technology investments as a strategic enabler and technology advantage for the defence and security posture of NATO Allies and partners.  The Centre conducts scientific research and technology development and delivers innovative field-tested S&T solutions to address the defence and security needs of the Alliance.

CMRE has more than 60 years of experience and has produced a cadre of leaders in ocean science, modelling and simulation, acoustics and other disciplines, as well as producing critical results and understanding that have been built into the operational concepts of NATO and the Nations.

What we offer:

• Salary (Pay Basis): 5,743.74 Euro (EUR) Monthly
• Grade ABCL grade A2/ NATO SSS grade 15
• Salary value as per 2023. Subject to future adjustments in accordance with North Atlantic Council decisions.
• A world class research facility located in the sea port of La Spezia, Italy supported by two specialised research vessels.
• An exciting place in which to work situated at an ideal location, the port of La Spezia, Italy, enabling synergy with regional and global academic institutes and industry.
• Salary and conditions of employment will be in accordance with the NATO Civilian Personnel Regulations (NCPR), which include a rewarding salary and a comprehensive system of allowances, supplements and insurances to support families and, in case of expatriated staff, offers an interesting “expatriate” package.
• A generous annual leave and, (where eligible) home leave.
• The successful candidate will be offered a three years’ definite duration contract, which may be renewed for subsequent periods subject to business needs, satisfactory performance, and the need to rotate skills and talent within the Organization.
• Applicants who prove to be competent for the post but who are not successful in this competition may be offered an appointment to another post of a similar nature, which might become vacant in the near future, albeit at the same or a lower grade, provided they meet the necessary requirements.

Our recruitment process:

Please note that we can only accept applications from nationals of NATO member countries.

• Applications (including the most relevant publications, the diplomas – stating the highest level of education) for this vacancy are to be submitted using the E-recruitment system (TALEO) as attachments;
• Appointment will be subject to receipt of a security clearance (provided by the National Authorities of the selected candidate) and approval of the candidate’s medical file by the CMRE Medical Adviser.

Additional information:

• CMRE values diverse backgrounds and perspectives and is committed to recruiting and retaining a diverse and talented workforce. We welcome applications of nationals from all Member States and strongly encourage women to apply.
• Selected candidates are expected to be role models of integrity, and to promote good governance through ongoing efforts in their work.