The Role

The Strategic Foresight and Tools (SFT) Science and Technology Capability (STC) is seeking experienced multi-disciplinary researcher to fill the role of the Discipline Lead Futures Data Analytics within our team. The Discipline Lead Futures Data Analytics position reports to the Group Leader Strategic Foresight and Tools. Working under broad direction, you will lead a diverse team of scientists, researchers and analysts to build and grow the Futures Data Analytics Discipline.

The responsibilities of the role include but are not limited to:

• Leading Futures Data Analytics to inform strategic decision-making occurring in the Department of Defence though the identification of emerging and disruptive technologies and advanced asymmetric capabilities in support of Defence capability planning and operational requirements.
• Managing the work of the team contributing to the Strategic Futures Work Package within the Force Design and Integration Project.
• Collaborating with technology analysts to identify data science needs and opportunities.
• Overseeing the deployment and training of machine learning models and the application of artificial intelligence to enhance data capabilities.
• Ensuring the ethical and secure use of data, adhering to relevant laws and regulations.

About our Team

The Strategic Foresight and Tools STC applies Strategic Analysis, Operations Research and future technology-focused data analytics to support strategic decision making for Defence. The scientific disciplines that underpin the STC include Strategic Analysis, Strategic Prioritisation and Futures Data Analytics.

The Futures Data Analytics Discipline focuses on designing and applying data science and data engineering strategies in support of Defence technology foresight. It enables the awareness and early warning assessment of Defence related emerging and disruptive technologies that will influence the prioritisation of policy choices and investment decisions.

The Futures Data Analytics Discipline works in close collaboration with the Disruptive Technology Assessment group to identify and promulgate emerging and disruptive technologies that potentially will have a Defence impact. This includes the development of a number of products for Defence that describe technologies and their Defence application, operational impact, asymmetric potential and their ethical, legal and social implications.

Our Ideal Candidate

Our ideal candidate will have a background and experience in advanced data analytics in the context of Defence and National Security. This role requires a strong understanding of data analysis, machine learning, and statistical modelling, along with proficiency in programming languages such as Python, R and SQL. Experience in working with large datasets and knowledge of open-source data science tools are also beneficial. A PhD or a Bachelor degree with equivalent experience in a relevant foundational discipline such as the physical sciences or mathematics is highly desirable.

The successful candidate demonstrates a strong understanding of the Defence strategic context, including DSTG’s role in supporting the Defence Strategic Centre and capability development processes. They work effectively with stakeholders across Defence, government, academia and industry. They foster a collaborative, inclusive culture and lead the development of a high-performing, multidisciplinary team. They articulate and drive a clear vision for the future direction of the team and its science. They also demonstrate proven people-leadership excellence, with a strong record of managing performance, developing talent, and leading a diverse workforce with professionalism and integrity. 

Security Clearance:

Applicants must be able to obtain and maintain a security clearance at “Negative Vetting Level 1”.

Mandatory Qualifications:

The S&T6/EL2 Senior Researcher – Operations Analysis position requires: 

• Academic qualifications in one or more of the following related fields of research; or
• Relevant skills and work experience.

Ref 1297.0 ANZSRC Fields of Research 2020:

Division 34 - Chemical Sciences

Division 35 – Commerce & Management Services

3503 Business Systems in Context

Division 44 – Human Society

4401 Anthropology

4408 Political Science

4410 Sociology

Division 46 – Information & Computing Sciences

4602 Artificial Intelligence

4606 Distributed Computing & Systems Software

4609 Information Systems

Division 49 – Mathematical Sciences

4901 Applied Mathematics

4903 Numerical & Computational Mathematics

4905 Statistics

Division 51 - Physical Sciences

Division 52 – Psychology

5204 Cognitive & Computational Psychology

The Department of Defence employs around 18,000 Australian Public Service (APS) employees. Defence APS employees work in a wide variety of critical roles, Australia wide, enabling our three services Navy, Army and Air Force, to do their job. Defence has a range of Australian Public Service (APS) career opportunities that offer interesting, challenging, and unique work. Our workforce includes administrative support, accountants, intelligence analysts, engineers, policy advisors, graphic designers, lawyers, social workers, IT specialists and contract managers to name a few. We offer a rewarding career that includes professional development, work-life balance, recognition, a flexible and supportive work environment and a diverse workforce. To find out more about a career with Defence please visit https://www.defence.gov.au/jobs-careers