Head of Statistics

Duration:

Permanent. A panel may be formed from which future similar vacancies may be filled; such a panel will remain active for a maximum period of 12 months.

The Organisation

Teagasc - the Agriculture and Food Development Authority - is the national body providing integrated research, advisory and training services to the agriculture and food industry and rural communities. Our vision is to be a globally recognised leader in developing innovative science-based solutions for the sustainable transformation of our land resources into products and services for the benefit of society. Our mission to provide scientific leadership and support to Irish farmers and food companies in achieving a sustainable food system is underpinned by our recently launched organisational values of 'Respect, Excellence and Integrity'. Teagasc employs in the region of 1,400 staff in over 50 locations across Ireland.

Basic Function:

The successful appointee will lead, manage and develop a team of statistical scientists, promote the adoption of cutting-edge statistical practices among Teagasc researchers, and develop and deliver a comprehensive statistical-training programme for Teagasc staff and post-graduate students. Additionally, the appointee will develop their own research programme, and will supervise (or jointly supervise) post-graduate students and/or post doctorate researchers. The appointee will augment the Teagasc research and innovation programme by providing oversight and direction in the design, analysis and interpretation of research data generated for different purposes and through different processes. Additionally, the appointee will proactively collaborate with Teagasc research scientists and external partners on the interpretation of results and, where appropriate scientific publications. The appointee will engage in continuous professional development and will continue to broaden their knowledge and further develop skills in the field of statistics, statistical analysis, and other relevant areas of benefit to the Teagasc research programme. Additionally, they will be capable of adapting and changing their work approach to suit changing circumstances and emerging technologies.

Location Information: In addition to the advertised locations for this vacancy we are also open to considering alternative Teagasc locations such as:

• Teagasc, Grange, Dunsany, Co. Meath
• Teagasc, Athenry, Co. Galway
• Teagasc, Johnstown Castle, Co. Wexford
• Teagasc, Moorepark, Fermoy, Co. Cork

Job Objectives

• Lead, manage and develop a team of statistical scientists to deliver the adoption of cutting-edge statistical practices among Teagasc researchers and postgraduate students.
• Develop and deliver a comprehensive statistical training programme for Teagasc staff and postgraduate students, which includes holding consultation clinics.
• Provide oversight and direction in the design, analysis and interpretation of research data generated in Teagasc for different purposes and through different processes.
• Conduct research in advancing the discipline of applied statistics that supports Teagasc research and innovation programme, including the supervision (or jointly supervise) of postgraduate student and/or post doctorate researchers.
• Lead and participate in research projects at national and international, including the applications for funding and publication in peer-reviewed scientific publications (lead or co-author) in leading international journals.
• Establish and maintain active collaborative contacts with the relevant national and international statistical competency networks of excellence.
• Collaborate with Teagasc ICT Department, researchers and other relevant stakeholders, to deliver best practice digital tools and techniques that efficiently support data capture, analysis and visualisation.
• Comply with all relevant Teagasc policies and procedures.
• Engage in continuous professional development relevant to the role.
• Assist Teagasc in meeting the commitments of the Quality Customer Service Charter and Action Plan.
• Actively participate in the annual business planning and Performance Management and Development System (PMDS).
• Carry out other duties as may be assigned from time to time.

Skills Requirement

Qualifications

• An honours Level 8 degree, (as recognised on the National Framework of Qualifications or equivalent), in Statistics, Biostatistics, data science, Applied Maths or other relevant qualification at this level or higher.
• A PhD degree in Statistics, Biostatistics, data science, Applied Maths, or a PhD in another discipline that included a significant element of statistical analysis.
• A minimum of 5 years of relevant experience operating at the level of senior data analytics or data science roles.

Note: While a PhD is an essential requirement for this post, equivalent research experience may be deemed acceptable solely at the discretion of the Director of Teagasc.

Desirable

• A strong publication record in peer-reviewed journals.
• Experience of working with large cross-disciplinary / multinational programmes.
• Good knowledge of the Irish and European research landscape.
• Experience of managing research resources such as budgets, human capital and delivering agreed objectives.
• Have contributed to significant reports / policy documents.
• Recognised expertise in statistical data analysis at national and international level is highly desirable.

Knowledge/Skills

• Demonstrated knowledge and in-depth expertise in the field of data management and analysis.
• Ability to critically evaluate complex information and make judgements that reflect a wide understanding of issues and scenarios.
• Engaging and consultative leadership style, with ability to effectively manage people and resources.
• Ability to communicate and network effectively with a wide range of stakeholders.
• Ability to foster high work standards, discipline, and accountability.
• An understanding of Teagasc Research programmes and activities.
• A full appreciation of the public sector and familiarity with its governance requirements.

Other

This role will require travel between Teagasc locations around Ireland. Candidates must therefore satisfy and continue to satisfy during employment with Teagasc, legal requirements to drive unaccompanied on Irish public roads.

Note: The 'essential' qualifications, knowledge, skills and behavioural competencies outlined above are 'must-have' which will be used in the selection process.

What We Offer:

• Competitive Salary: Starting at €92,924 with annual increments up to €127,294 (max).
• Pension: Defined Benefit pension scheme.
• Work-Life Balance: Agile working programme with the possibility of home working up to 2 days per week.
• Career Development: Support for further education and staff development.
• Flexible Options: Flexible working/unpaid leave schemes.
• Health & Wellbeing: Paid sick leave and death in service benefits. Employee well-being programme including flu vaccine, health checks etc.
• On-Site Benefits: Subsidised staff restaurant and free parking at our Carlow headquarters.

Why Join Us?

• At all levels in Teagasc, we believe in growing and keeping alive an open, diverse and inclusive workplace which is respectful to all and nurtures different perspectives for the benefit of all in our organisation.
• We are committed to the principles of 'Equal Opportunities, No Barriers and Active Inclusion'. We actively welcome applications from people from diverse backgrounds.
• Be part of a forward thinking organisation committed to positive change.
• Work in a collaborative environment that values your unique perspective.
• Drive initiatives that make a lasting impact on workplace culture.

Join Teagasc in creating a workplace where everyone thrives and diversity is celebrated.