Scientific IT Specialist - Competition #2010-0528
The Perimeter Institute for Theoretical Physics (PI) seeks a creative individual with experience in
both scientific research and information technology (IT) to fill a new hybrid research/IT position
within the Institute. A key aspect of the position is to assist PI’s scientific staff in making effective
use of IT resources. The initial mandate of the position is twofold. First, directly assisting
Researchers in their use of IT resources and improving their ability to use currently known and
available tools. Second, provide leadership by introducing Researchers to the best new IT
resources that are available to them. This would include defining and sharing knowledge
regarding these practices with the rest of the worldwide theoretical physics community furthering
PI’s role as a community resource. This includes but is not limited to: the use of end-user
software, software coding, collaboration technologies, and social networking tools. We expect this
position’s activities to evolve over time as needs and opportunities arise. The successful applicant
will bring his/her own vision to the position and help define it.
Major Duties and Responsibilities:
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Act as a knowledge broker among Researchers. That is, find and test new programs and practices,
advertise them, and be prepared to train others in their use.
Research and follow up on suggestions made by others regarding new software packages,
equipment, etc. and their applicability to PI's research.
Participate in the creation of a "standard", yet highly productive, Researcher IT environment
(desktop hardware, software set-up), maximizing the use of open source software and/or popular
commercial packages.
As demand dictates, be a liaison with SHARCNET (or other HPC) resources. Be ready to help
Researchers to gain the expertise available at these facilities. Assist with the deployment and
management of any PI large-scale computing clusters.
Work with other IT staff to refine standard IT service and support to better suit PI’s scientific
community.
Bring or quickly develop an expert level knowledge in the use of the main packages used by
Researchers, including Mathematica, Maple, LaTex, etc.
Bring in-depth knowledge of Linux and, to a lesser extent, Windows/Mac to assist Researchers with
technical problems; participate in architectural planning for efficient use of IT throughout a
research program.
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Education:
A PhD or PhD-level experience in Physics, Math, Computer Science or closely related discipline which
necessitated the in-depth use of IT resources
Experience:
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Familiarity and comfort with scientific /scientist culture and operating procedures
Experience conducting research in Physics (preferred) or a closely related discipline; i.e. direct
familiarity with research processes
Expert level IT skills, particularly with respect to Researcher end user applications
Experience working in a team environment in a support role
Ideally, operational experience in IT systems
Leadership Skills, Knowledge, and Attributes:
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A positive, outgoing personality with a genuine interest in engaging Researchers and assisting
them to improve their use of IT.
Dynamic, quick-learner who can deal easily with the rapidly changing demands and possibilities
of IT technology and researcher needs.
Able to build strong relationships within the Research community and become a trusted, expert
advisor.
Strong verbal and written skills. The candidate must be able to demonstrate and communicate
improved ways of using IT through a variety of media and presentation methods.
Ability to advocate for the effective use of technology within the research community both within
PI and externally.
Teamwork-oriented problem solving attitude.
Qualified and interested applicants are invited to apply online at www.perimeterinstitute.ca under the
“Careers” section by Friday, July 2, 2010.
Perimeter Institute is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified candidates are encouraged to apply;
however, Canadian citizens and Permanent Residents will be given priority.
www.perimeterinstitute.ca