The Executive Manager of Forensic Innovation, Validation and Research provides leadership and oversight of capability uplift, innovation, validation and verification, and research activities across Forensic Science Queensland. The role is responsible for ensuring technologies, systems and processes utilised in forensic science are appropriately developed, validated, verified and implemented in accordance with accreditation requirements, scientific best practice and organisational needs. The position leads complex forensic science projects, applying robust project management, data analysis and statistical evaluation principles to support evidence-based decision making, continuous improvement and the delivery of high-quality forensic services.

Job details

Your key responsibilities

• Lead the strategic planning, governance and delivery of validation and verification activities across FSQ, ensuring new methods, technologies, software, workflows and reporting approaches are scientifically robust, fit for purpose and compliant with ISO/IEC 17025 and NATA accreditation requirements and relevant forensic science standards.
• Develop and maintain validation and verification frameworks across forensic science disciplines, providing scientific leadership in study design, statistical evaluation and implementation planning to ensure forensic activities are scientifically robust, appropriately designed and compliant with accreditation and quality requirements. 
• Lead complex forensic scientific and innovation projects from concept through implementation, ensuring effective governance, stakeholder engagement, risk management, resource allocation and delivery of measurable organisational outcomes.
• Lead the collection, analysis and interpretation of scientific and operational data arising from forensic research, validation and innovation activities to evaluate outcomes, support evidence-based decisions making and identify opportunities for continuous improvement across forensic science services.
• Provide expert scientific governance, leadership and advice relating to the development, implementation and evaluation of forensic science methodologies, technologies, systems and processes, ensuring research, innovation, validation, verification activities are scientifically robust, operationally suitable and compliant with accreditation and quality requirements.
• Lead the review and continuous improvement of existing forensic science methodologies, policies and procedures and quality frameworks, to ensure alignment with scientific best practice, accreditation requirements and organisational priorities.
• Professionally and effectively lead and manage the innovation function/s to develop a positive organisational culture and create a safe and innovative environment for staff through facilitating staff development, performance appraisal and other human resource management measures.
• Establish and maintain collaborative partnerships with forensic science providers, research institution, professional bodies and government stakeholders to support scientific advancement, knowledge sharing and implementation of best practice forensic methodologies.
• Adhere to defined leadership, management and service quality standards, including health and safety policies and procedures financial and human resources are managed effectively in accordance with approved business and strategic plans, and procurement and governance principles are adhered to.
• Actively enhance FSQ's reputation through the dissemination of forensic research findings via publications and participation in conferences/seminars and workshops.
• Other duties as determined by the Director, Deputy Director/s of FSQ.

Technical skills, abilities and cultural capability

• Demonstrated experience in the leadership and management of teams in a forensic science and/or research environment, including the management of financial and human resources.
• Proven ability to coordinate and conduct high level research and development projects.
• Highly developed interpersonal and negotiation skills, including verbal and written ability, to constructively manage client/stakeholder issues to ensure positive outcomes for clients, stakeholder, and the Department.
• Proven experience in forensic science and laboratory practice, and experience in developing, implementing and reviewing policies and procedures in accordance with the legislation, regulations and standards that apply to a multidisciplinary laboratory organisation.

Applications to remain current for 12 months.

Further information

We are committed to building inclusive cultures in the Queensland public sector that respect and promote human rights and diversity.

Please ensure you download all attachments and follow the instructions on how to apply.

Documents

Before applying for this vacancy please ensure you read the documents below.

• 696781-26-Applicant information guide (PDF, 523KB)
  Information Package for Applicants
  
  696781-26-Role Description (Word, 575KB)
  Role Description