PROFESSOR - DIRECTOR OF SPACE SCIENCES DEPARTMENT

The University of Sharjah (UoS) in the United Arab Emirates seeks applications from qualified individuals for the position of the Professor and Director of Space Sciences Department at Sharjah Academy of Astronomy, Space Sciences & Technology (SAASST) to begin in the Academic Year 2024-2025.

SCOPE OF WORK

Highly skilled and visionary Director to lead our Space Sciences Department at the Sharjah Academy for Astronomy, Space Sciences and Technology. The Director will be responsible for overseeing the management, supervision, and decision-making processes of seven research laboratories within the space exploration domain:

1. CubeSat Laboratory
2. Meteorite Center
3. Radio Astronomy Laboratory
4. Space Weather and Ionospheric Laboratory
5. High Energy Astrophysics Laboratory
6. Space Artificial Intelligence Laboratory
7. Rocket Propulsion and Exhaust Systems Laboratory

This role requires a strategic thinker with a strong background in space research, excellent leadership skills, and the ability to drive innovation and collaboration among a diverse team of scientists and engineers.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

1. Strategic Leadership:
   • Develop and execute a strategic vision for the Space Research Laboratory aligned with the organization's overall mission and objectives.
   • Provide leadership in identifying new research opportunities, partnerships with local and international space research laboratories, industries, and agencies, and finding and/or managing funding sources to advance the laboratory's goals.
2. Management and Supervision:
   • Directly manage and supervise seven research laboratories, ensuring efficient and effective operation.
   • Foster a collaborative and innovative research environment, promoting interdisciplinary collaboration among scientists, engineers, and researchers.
   • Manage and supervise researchers in writing scientific publications and manuscripts from initial research phase to final publication.
   • Help organize weekly events, workshops, lectures from internal and external researchers, engineers, scientists, and subject matter experts.
   • Oversee existing research facilities, assets, instruments, and resources on campus and locally.
3. Decision Making:
   • Make critical decisions related to resource allocation, research priorities, and project timelines to ensure the success of ongoing and future initiatives.
   • Evaluate research proposals, results, and progress reports to guide the direction of the laboratory's projects.
4. Team Development:
   • Recruit, develop, and mentor a high-performing team of scientists, engineers, and support staff.
   • Foster a culture of continuous learning, professional development, and diversity and inclusion within the laboratory.
5. Communication and collaboration:
   • Communicate effectively with all SAASST/UoS staff, departments and administration, government agencies, industry partners, media, and other academic institutions.
   • Collaborate with other research organizations and space agencies to enhance the laboratory's capabilities and impact.

Educational Background:

• Ph.D. in a relevant field of space research (e.g., Astrophysics, Engineering, Planetary Science).

Experience:

• Proven experience in a leadership role within a research or space exploration organization.
• Demonstrated success in securing research funding and managing complex projects.

Skills:

• Strong strategic planning and decision-making skills.
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills.
• Ability to inspire and lead a diverse team.
• Ability to travel and participate in local and international conferences, tradeshows, workshops, and events.
• In-depth knowledge of current trends and developments in space research and technology.
• Preferred experience in Space Sciences research, Operation and Mission Design of spacecrafts, and Artificial Intelligence.

Interested candidates possessing the required experience and qualifications are invited to apply through the University of Sharjah Job Opportunities Portal:

(https://newhr.sharjah.ac.ae/en/Pages/JobOpportunities.aspx)

Please include with your CV the names, phone numbers, and email addresses of at least four professional references.

Or by postal mail to:

Office of the Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs

University of Sharjah

P.O. Box 27272

Sharjah - U.A.E.