Research and Development Senior Advisor

Advice on the conduction of cutting-edge research and development projects, initiatives, and activities, in order to achieve the research and development priorities in the kingdom through advancing innovative products and solutions.

Job Specific Accountabilities:

Research Portfolio and Applied Research

• Advice the strategic research portfolio, through identifying Research and Development projects in alignment with Research and Development priorities and national needs.
• Supervise research projects within Research and Development to ensure the successful execution of projects, adherence to budgets and timelines, and the translation of research findings into practical solutions that address critical Research and Development challenges.
• Supervise advisory and scientific consultation projects to the public and private sectors, researchers, and interested parties within the Research and Development Sector to address their specific needs and goals.

Scientific Publication

• Advice the strategic development and publication of high-impact scientific content like research papers, reports, and experiments to contribute to the advancement of knowledge in Research and Development.
• Advice the development of technical reports and scientific content in Research and Development (e.g., publication, research papers, experiments, etc.).
• Advice the effective documentation, communication, and dissemination of scientific content through a structured governance framework to enhance the Research and Development sector visibility and reputation in the scientific community, and foster collaborations with external stakeholders.

Prototyping, Technology Development and Commercialization

• Advice on the testing and validation of research outcomes through prototyping, technical assessments, and production to assess the effectiveness and practicality of the innovation in solving identified problems.
• Supervise the evaluation of the market viability and potential commercial benefits of research and outputs from the Institutes in coordination with the Commercialization and Technology Transfer function.
• Advice on the development of strategies for the exploitation and commercialization of research outputs in coordination with the Commercialization and Technology Transfer function.

National Cadre Development

• Advice on the selection and identification of national talent in the Research and Development Sector to build and retain a sustainable and skilled workforce.
• Advice on the design and implementation of learning and development initiatives and programs (e.g., training needs, curriculum, training materials, instructional methods, etc.) to nurture local talent in the field.

Research Infrastructure Support

• Supervise the strategies to provide researchers with access to technology, advanced devices, lab equipment, and research infrastructure to accommodate future growth and evolving research needs within the Research and Development Sector.
• Advice the optimal design of the infrastructure to be scalable and adaptable and to ensure they remain in optimal working condition.

Representation in Events and Ceremonies

• Serve as the organization’s official advisor at R&D events, such as conferences, awards ceremonies, and industry gatherings, and give speeches and presentations on behalf of the organization.
• Build and maintain relationships with key stakeholders in the research and innovation ecosystem, including government officials, business leaders, and potential donors to identify and nurture collaboration opportunities.
• Work with cross-functional teams to advise on planning and execution of research and innovation related events, including logistics, catering, entertainment, and speaker arrangements.
• Work with cross-functional teams to advise on development and implementation of communication plans for events, including press releases, social media outreach, and media interviews.

Qualification and Experience:

• Bachelor's degree and 10+ years of experience in Science, Engineering, Technology, or a relevant field, or
• Master's degree and 8+ years of experience in Science, Engineering, Technology, or a relevant field, or
• PhD degree and 6+ years of experience in Science, Engineering, Technology, or a relevant field.