Job Description

Reporting to the Research, Applications and Development (RAD) Manager, the successful candidate will be responsible for providing scientific leadership and innovation in the field of Earth Observation, contributing to cutting-edge research, development, and application of remote sensing technologies and data to address sector-specific challenges, including agriculture, disaster management, environmental, and climate monitoring. The role involves advancing the organisation's scientific capabilities, driving impactful Earth Observation projects, and fostering collaboration to support decision-making processes in addressing environmental, societal, and economic challenges.The incumbent will also lead scientific teams and ensure that outputs are translated into practical applications and solutions. The Principal Scientist will mentor teams, secure research funding, and represent the organisation as a thought leader in Earth Observation science.The ideal candidate must have the following qualifications and experience:

• Minimum of PhD qualification in Remote Sensing, Geospatial Science, Earth Sciences, Computer Science or related fields.
• At least five (5) years of experience in Earth Observation applications, space intelligence tools development, or geospatial research.
• A minimum of two (2) years of experience in a senior scientist role in Earth Observation.
• Proven ability to supervise or lead multidisciplinary scientific teams.
• Evidence of domain understanding through remote sensing scientific publications in journals and conference proceedings.
• Ability to interact with a network of senior stakeholders and clients.
• Experience in the remote sensing processing supply chains.
• Insight into requirements of the EO Space Intelligence environment.
• Understanding of business management processes.

Key performance areas will include, but are not limited to:

• Lead and guide teams in EO research and applications.
• Develop innovative EO methodologies, tools, and frameworks.
• Publish high-impact research and technical reports.
• Oversee multiple EO projects, ensuring timely delivery and adherence to international standards.
• Engage with stakeholders, including government agencies, industry partners, and academic institutions.
• Mentor postgraduate students and postdoctoral fellows.

Background verification, including criminal record, credit checks, security clearances, qualifications, and citizenship checks, as well as competency assessment and psychometric testing, may form part of the selection process. By applying for these vacancies, the candidates consent that SANSA can collect, process, and share their Personal Information (PI) for verification, assessments, and employment purposes only.SANSA subscribes to the principles of the Employment Equity Act. As per the Employment Equity Plan of SANSA and its Employment Equity goals and targets, preference will be given to candidates from under-represented designated groups (African males and females, Coloured females, and People with disabilities).Communication will only be conducted with short-listed candidates. If applicants have not heard from us within 4 weeks of the closing date, regard your application as unsuccessful. SANSA reserves the right not to make an appointment.Closing Date: 27 February 2025.For queries, please contact Mr. Kgaugelo Ramone by email at mramone@sansa.org.za or 060?942 2358.

The South African National Space Agency