SCIENTIFIC LADDER. Scientific Ladder February 2012 Page 1 of 12

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1 SCIENTIFIC LADDER This Scientific Ladder document is a supplement to the Point Rating Evaluation Plan (PREP) guide chart, stream definitions and benchmarks to assist with classifying scientific jobs by providing additional clarification on the differences in the classification levels. NOTE: This document does not replace the PREP tools (guide chart, stream definitions and benchmarks) used to classify positions. A fundamental requirement of job evaluation is to classify jobs consistent with the intent of the respective classification plan and in the class that defines their kind/occupational grouping of work. When selecting a class, it is important that the work aligns with the kind or occupational grouping that is described in the Stream Definitions. Because of the wide range of work within the Government of Alberta (GoA), it is important to be familiar with all the subsidiaries, classes and stream definitions, and benchmarks in the plan. The streams align with the kind of work that is found in the different subsidiaries and have a common qualification base. Scientific Stream Definition: This work involves conducting or overseeing functions relating to original or applied research studies within the natural science fields. Consulting, policy analysis, and technical knowledge transfer may be activities that occur within this stream at advanced levels as well, but the primary focus is on original or applied research. Positions in the scientific stream perform problem-solving research functions of a professional nature directed toward the development of scientific knowledge and expertise in the biological, physical and earth sciences. Included are positions whose primary purpose is the application of comprehensive or in-depth knowledge of concepts, theories and research methods appropriate to the biological, physical or earth sciences. Of major importance in most positions is the planning and conducting of research, development of programs and projects, and the interpretation and communication of results. This includes positions involved in devising significantly new methods or criteria. Positions with a significant research component mixed with other duties may also be included. Positions in this series may also perform scientific laboratory analyses and studies of a professional nature involving the application of knowledge in the physical or natural sciences, or supervise and administer the work of others engaged in such duties. Positions in the scientific stream may provide consultative and diagnostic services to internal and external government agencies. Human Relation Skills Based on the nature of the work in the scientific stream, which is focused on the application of comprehensive or in-depth knowledge of concepts, theories and research methods the emphasis from a knowledge rating prospective tends to be placed on the professional/content knowledge factor. However like in any other classification rating the human relation skills factor is a key component of the overall knowledge rating. Keep the following in mind when determining the appropriate HR skills rating: Level 1 Information Exchange This level is also often referred to as tech-to-tech speak; in a scientific/laboratory environment where information exchanged can often be from scientist to scientist this level of communication skills may be all that is necessary. Remember the information exchanged can be complicated and go beyond what the everyday person may know but if the position they are communicating with has the same base of knowledge this scientist-to-scientist speak may be appropriately rated at the HR 1 level. Also, if a position is providing basic scientific information to the general public but is not expected to influence or change their behaviour but simply present the information this first level of human relation skills is likely still appropriate. Example BM 024SC13 Laboratory Scientist, Molecular Biology. Level 2 Influencing Behaviour Skill requirements at this level include persuasiveness as well as sensitivity to the other person's point of view in order to influence behavior, change an opinion, or Scientific Ladder February 2012 Page 1 of 12

2 turn a situation around. Within the scientific stream there are two key things to consider at this level 1) does the position have formal supervisory responsibilities or provide leadership for projects and teams (this may include external resources); or 2) is the position regularly required to interpret and communicate results to lay people in order to influence decisions, change opinions or move a program/policy in a different direction. Example BM 025SC09 Food Scientist, Crops/Bakery. Level 3 Conflict Management This level represents the highest level of human relation skills where a position is regularly required to not only influence but motivate long-term behavioural change. This level of human relation skill would be very rarely seen in the scientific stream. Responsibility Positions in the scientific stream tend to have more of an emphasis on creativity and problem solving. As such the job profiles of these positions reflected in their responsibility rating normally align with either a balanced or creativity focused profile. Keep the following in mind when selecting the appropriate responsibility profile: Balanced (B) Positions rated with a B job profile require a balance between program development and implementation. The position may have a strong focus on research and development but is also expected to contribute to the delivery of the program in which their research impacts or influences. Example BM 025SC06 Senior Museum Scientist. Creativity (C1) Positions rated with a C1 job profile are focused on the development and analysis stage of a project not the implementation stage. At this level analysis is generally focused on shorter term effects, methodologies tend to be more straightforward or predefined. A C1 job profile is more appropriate for entry level scientific positions focused on the development and analysis stages of a project. Example BM 024SC13 Laboratory Scientist, Molecular Biology. Creativity (C2) Positions rated with a C2 job profile are focused on applied research including the analysis, program development and design components. The research projects undertaken are longer term in nature and require less straightforward methodologies. As a C2 job profile aligns with longer term research projects utilizing less straightforward methodologies it aligns more appropriately with higher level and intermediate scientific positions. Positions rated with a C2 responsibility profile require strong problem solving and creativity skills it is a good idea to consider the problem solving and responsibility scores together. Example BM 027SC02 Senior Biometrician. Scientific vs. Management With pretty much all streams, as you move up in levels there is an increased presence of leadership, coordination, as well as certain elements of management. In the scientific stream some positions may eventually transition out and into the management series while other positions will transition to an increased focus on project coordination/management and scientific leadership while continuing to remain properly placed in the scientific stream. The following bullets outline work generally performed at the higher levels of the scientific stream where the work has transitioned away from the hands on doing of scientific research to more of a project coordination/management and scientific leadership role. Project Coordination The scientist responsible for the leadership of research and development projects is expected to: coordinate the planning of the approaches and methods organize and coordinate effective working arrangements resolve scientific and technical problems encountered in the work evaluate the scientific value of accomplishments; and ensure pursuit of the agreed upon objectives; the overall effectiveness of the scientist's efforts in completing projects within established timeframes is also considered. Scientific Ladder February 2012 Page 2 of 12

3 Scientific Leadership Scientific leadership includes contributions to the research community as well as supporting research achievements and professional growth of other scientists. Examples of this in action include: generating ideas to be pursued by others advice and consultation with others concerning concepts, theories, methods, prior experimental evidence, and problem solving expert advice on scientific questions refereeing scientific questions participation in scientific forums and the activities of scientific associations. Scientific Ladder February 2012 Page 3 of 12

4 Scientific 1 EI2 or E+I1 = 200 (29% or 33%) points Types of Responsibilities Minimum Qualifications Benchmarks Work at this level is defined as entry level professional University graduation in a 023SC12- Provincial Seed scientific work focused on an assigned element of a related field; no experience Specialist research science project or performing basic scientific required. laboratory work using well established methods and practices. Work requires knowledge of various scientific methods, processes, and functions to gather data. Positions at this level must have a basic understanding of statistical analysis, project management and report writing. This level requires an understanding and application of the theory and principles of scientific methods, specialized lab instrumentation and equipment, and computer applications. Tests and projects are conducted within set procedures and guidelines established for scientific research. Although standard methods and techniques are generally applied at this level some judgment in selecting alternatives is also required. Typical duties at this level may include: Performing specific research components such as routine analysis and interpretation of scientific data for a larger project as directed by a project team lead or senior researcher. Translating analysis and interpretation of scientific material into lay terms for client areas. Working as a part of a team to develop and implement basic components of product and process development and process enhancement projects. (Basic components are defines as: less complex as well as limited in scope and risk). Performing literature reviews on existing research. Conducting laboratory, process development, or field tests in support of research and development projects. Preparing reports and developing new basic testing methods and techniques for laboratory use. Development of extension, technology transfer and laboratory process and procedure materials. Operation and maintenance of standard laboratory equipment. Supervision of work completed by technicians or aids. Positions at this level are expected to work independently within established guidelines, work is given general supervision during progress and final results are typically reviewed for accuracy and conformance to professional and scientific standards. Scientific Ladder February 2012 Page 4 of 12

5 SCIENTIFIC 2 E+I2 or FI1 = 230 (33% or 38%) points Types of Responsibilities Minimum Qualifications Benchmarks Masters degree plus 2 years related experience. Work at this level is defined as intermediate level professional scientific work focused on research science projects and programs that are narrow in focus or specialized scientific laboratory work. Positions focused on research projects and programs are responsible for planning, designing, conducting, analyzing, interpreting and writing publications for research that is narrow in focus and has a limited numbers of variables to achieve clear and specific project results. Positions focused on scientific laboratory work require proficiency in specialized aspects of diagnostic work and are responsible for completing complex laboratory or analytical work for use by higher level scientists and veterinarians. Work completed at this level is required to independently evaluate, select, and apply standard scientific techniques, processes, and criteria using judgment in making minor adaptations and modifications. Typical duties at this level may include: Planning, designing, and conducting scientific research and commercialization projects. These projects are less complex and limited in scope and risk. Analyzing and interpreting the resulting research data and writing and publishing reports. Project management of research projects. This includes: budgets, milestones, deliverables and supervision of technical staff. Communication of results through technology transfer activities. Working with technical or field staff or a pilot plant to generate/implement scientific based information. Participation on interdisciplinary research project teams. Integration of new data and information from scientific literature and other sources. Interpreting, applying, and presenting highly scientific information to technical and non-technical stakeholders. Providing training and instruction for scientific programs or university courses. Act as a representative on regional and/or provincial boards, agencies, and professional societies. Coordination and development of specific provincial standards. Responsibility for maintaining, aligning and/or establishing protocols/procedures to meet or exceed approved standards that ensure quality of results. Supporting the development of new laboratory procedures and practices and validation of current practices. Planning, execution and documentation of laboratory test results. Responsibility for all aspects of laboratory procedures (i.e. scheduling, data collection) for diagnostic purposes or assigned components of interdisciplinary research. Responsibility for daily operation of the laboratory including technical supervision, coaching and Equivalency: Ph.D. in a scientific discipline related to the position; no experience required OR University graduation in a related field, plus 4 years related experience. 024SC13- Laboratory Scientist - Molecular Biology 024SC08- Curator of Quaternary Paleontology Scientific Ladder February 2012 Page 5 of 12

6 coordination of bench activities for laboratory technologists. Application of specialized laboratory techniques, including the operation and maintenance of specialized laboratory equipment. Positions at this level generally receive instruction on specific assignment objectives, technical assistance on complex features, and possible solutions. Work is reviewed by seasoned research professionals for technical quality. Scientific 1 vs. Scientific 2 One factor which distinguishes this level from the Scientific 1 is the greater complexity and scope of analysis and studies undertaken. There is also an increase in independence as well as scope of decision making between the Scientific 1 and 2 levels. At the Scientific 2 level there are limited guidelines with some discretion in setting objectives as well as the approached to achieving them. Differing from the 1 level which operates within established guidelines with little discretion. At the Scientific 2 level it is expected that positions begin to demonstrate creativity and problems solving in the development of new techniques, methods, generation of ideas, identification of potential research projects etc. whereas this is not an expectation at the Scientific 1 level. Scientific Ladder February 2012 Page 6 of 12

7 SCIENTIFIC 3 FI2 or F+I1 = 264 (33%or 38% or 43% in the grey) points Types of Responsibilities Minimum Qualifications Benchmarks Work at this level is defined as full working level Ph.D. in a scientific discipline 025SC10- Veterinary professional scientific work focused on research science related to the position plus 2 Microbiology Scientist projects and programs that are provincial in scope and/or years progressively are focused on the leadership of specialized scientific responsible related 025SC06- Senior Museum laboratory work. experience. Scientist Positions focused on research projects and programs are responsible for planning, designing, conducting, analyzing, interpreting and writing publications for research that is provincial in scope impacting a variety of stakeholders including government departments, industry and the public. Positions focused on the leadership of specialized scientific laboratory work are responsible for initiating and conducting applied scientific research projects and providing diagnostic and advisory services to government departments, industry and the public. Positions at this level must exercise independent judgment in the evaluation, selection, and modification of standard techniques, processes and criteria. They are expected to devise new approaches to complex problems encountered, while working within conventional practices. Positions at this level apply their advanced knowledge not only to the research process but also in providing consultation and advice on various aspects of their research and its impacts and implications. Typical duties at this level may include: Planning, designing, and conducting scientific research and commercialization projects. These projects are provincial in scope and impact. Analyzing and interpreting the resulting research data and writing and publishing reports. Project management of research projects. This includes: budgets, milestones, deliverables and supervision of staff. Working at the provincial level to develop and coordinate research policies and programs. Supplying scientific information (including advice and guidance on the impacts of this information) for departmental program and policy development. Participating in the development of regulatory frameworks. Representing the department in their area of scientific expertise on scientific committees, boards, panels etc. Involvement at the provincial/national level in collaborative research programs. Participating in events/activities of the national and international scientific community such as scientific conferences, workshops or seminars in area of study including presentation of research results at scientific meetings. Performing literature reviews on existing research or acting as a referee for scientific journals by reviewing papers submitted for publication. Writing and contributing to peer-reviewed publications. Providing scientific leadership including developing research plans, analyzing, evaluating and interpreting data, securing project materials and equipment, Equivalency: Masters degree, DVM or MD plus 4 years related experience OR University graduation in a related field, plus 6 years related experience. 025SC09- Food Scientist, Crops/Bakery Scientific Ladder February 2012 Page 7 of 12

8 supervising laboratory staff and coordinating the activities of all project participants. Leading the development of new laboratory procedures and practices as well as the validation of current practices. Supervising the planning, execution and documentation of laboratory test results. Responsibility for daily operation of the laboratory including supervision, coaching and coordination of bench activities for laboratory technologists and junior scientific roles. Application of specialized laboratory techniques, including the operation and maintenance of highly sophisticated laboratory equipment. Positions at this level are responsible for developing research initiatives, which requires analytical/interpretative thinking. Once research needs/priorities are determined and supported, the job has the authority to determine research projects independently. Scientific 2 vs. Scientific 3 One factor which distinguishes the Scientific 3 from the Scientific 2 level is the additional complexities added when research moves from having a narrow/confined focus to a focus that is provincial in scope. Work at the Scientific 3 level has added breath given to it as the expectation at this level is for these positions to apply their advanced knowledge not only to their respective research projects and programs but also in providing consultation and advice on various aspects of their research and its impacts and implications to various stakeholders. Differing from the Scientific 2 level, work within the Scientific 3 level operates with a high level of independence and accountability to develop new procedures and practices and initiating research initiatives. At the Scientific 3 level it is expected as a part of the role that positions regularly demonstrate creativity and problem solving in the development of new techniques, methods, generation of ideas, research project proposals etc. Scientific Ladder February 2012 Page 8 of 12

9 SCIENTIFIC 4 F+I2 = 304 (38% or 43%) points Types of Responsibilities Minimum Qualifications Benchmarks Ph. D. in a scientific discipline 026SC04- Senior Water related to the position plus 5 Quality Modeler years progressively responsible related experience. Work at this level is defined as advanced professional scientific work focused on research science projects and programs that are provincial in scope. The research issues faced at this level however have an added complexity in that they are either interdisciplinary in nature, requiring positions at this level to provide scientific leadership outside of their specialized area of expertise; or are focused on a specialized area with the research being conducted viewed to be cutting edge. Positions must lead interdisciplinary teams* in the identification and design of research problems and oversee project progress and completion. If the position is conducting research in a specialized area and is viewed to be cutting edge there is potential for the results to set precedence for national and international use. Research projects formulated at this level are done in an environment where guidelines and precedents are inadequate and significant technological innovations are required. Positions at this level independently conceive, plan and conduct research which could have a considerable influence on scientific knowledge or technological developments. Positions are required to assess feasibility and soundness of proposed experimental approaches and techniques when there is limited data available. Unique problems faced at this level require innovative thinking in the development of improved techniques and procedures. Positions at this level are looked to as an expert in their field at both a provincial and national level. *Interdisciplinary teams may consist of both internal and external partners. E.g. industry, academic, government. Typical duties at this level may include: Planning, designing, and conducting multi-disciplinary scientific research and commercialization projects. These projects are provincial in scope and impact but also regularly present implications at the national level. Leading multi-disciplinary research teams, this involves seeking funding partnerships, obtaining funds and managing external research funds and grants. Leading cutting edge applied and original research that is focused on a specialized area with a provincial focus, results may set precedent for national and international use. Analyzing research results, formulating models developing recommendations and publishing results. Transferring scientific data into a product or process that can be commercialized. Full project management of research projects. This includes: budgets, milestones, deliverables and supervision of staff. Assisting senior leaders in setting organizational priorities including developing strategic research plans. Leads in the development and testing of new knowledge/science, innovations and techniques. Equivalency: Masters Degree, or Doctorate of Veterinary Medicine or MD, plus 7 years related experience OR University graduation in a related field, plus 9 years related experience. Scientific Ladder February 2012 Page 9 of 12

10 Providing specialized advice and assistance on research to departmental and external clients. Acting as a scientific expert and departmental representative champion the incorporation of results into management decisions regarding program and policy development. Involvement at the provincial/national level on multiorganizational/multi-jurisdictional project teams. Participating at the provincial/national/international level on boards/panels/committees dealing with scientific questions in field of expertise. Acting as an external examiner for PhD candidates. Writing and contributing to peer-reviewed publications. Presenting at the national or international level. Scientific 3 vs. Scientific 4 One factor which distinguishes the scientific 4 from the Scientific 3 level is the additional complexities present in leading multidisciplinary research that is no longer focused on a specific area of expertise. When research work is focused on one area of expertise at the Scientific 4 level the research is cutting edge in nature where the results may set precedent for national and international use, this is not generally the case at the Scientific 3 level. Work at the Scientific 4 level also regularly requires the position to draw up on their analytical stills to address a variety of situations where there is limited past precedence or direction. At the Scientific 4 level it is expected that positions demonstrate a high level of creativity and problem solving in the formulation of research projects. Research projects done at this level are often done in environments where guidelines and precedents are inadequate and significant innovation is required, differing from the research environment seen at the Scientific 3 level. Scientific Ladder February 2012 Page 10 of 12

11 SCIENTIFIC 5 GI2 = 350 (43% or 50%) points Types of Responsibilities Minimum Qualifications Benchmarks Ph.D. in a scientific discipline related to the position, plus 8 years progressively responsible related experience. This is the most advanced level of professional scientific work and is often referred to as the guru level. Work conducted at this level is focused on providing scientific leadership to a research program that is provincial in scope. Research programs led at this level have a long term focus and often include multi-phase projects that are seeking to develop new theories and knowledge. Work involves leading a research program from inception including sourcing funding through to completion which includes publication of results and the interpretation and explanation of potential implications. Research programs led at this level involve unique problems and complex issues that are of major importance to the organization and often cross over multiple areas of specialization. Positions at this level are expected to influence internal and external decision makers regarding strategic research direction and lead the implementation of integrated solutions. Positions at this level are looked to as an expert in their field at the provincial, national and international level. Equivalency: Doctorate of Veterinary Medicine or MD, plus 10 years related experience 027SC03- Research Scientist - Value Added Meat Processing 027SC02- Senior Biometrician Typical duties at this level may include: Providing scientific leadership in the planning, designing and conducting of research and commercialization programs. These programs are provincial in scope. Completing scientific assessment of research results to develop new theories and knowledge, arrive at conclusions, draw inferences, and develop recommendations and information to inform decision making. Responsibility for providing leadership to manage internal and external funds and human resources in a team setting to ensure timely completion of research projects. Responsible for identifying and obtaining funding this includes preparation of grant applications. Responsible for managing funds once received including the completion of any reporting requiring. Leading cutting edge applied and original research that is multi-disciplinary in nature and may set precedent for national and international use. Collaborating on national and international multidisciplinary research projects. Transferring scientific data into a product or process that can be commercialized. Full project management of research projects. This includes: budgets, milestones, deliverables and supervision of staff. Influencing senior leaders (internally and externally) on strategic research direction. Leading in the development and testing of new knowledge/science, innovations and techniques. Translating complex outcomes and implications resulting from research projects to influence decision making in the development of policies, regulations and Scientific Ladder February 2012 Page 11 of 12

12 programs. Chairing scientific boards, panels and committees at the provincial level. Participating at the national or international level on boards/panels/committees dealing with scientific questions in field of expertise. Writing and contributing to peer-reviewed publications. Presenting at the provincial, national or international level as a key note speaker. Scientific 4 vs. Scientific 5 One key factor which distinguishes the Scientific 5 from the Scientific 4 level is the shift from providing scientific leadership specific to a research project or projects to providing scientific leadership in relation to a research program. At the Scientific 5 level it is expected that positions demonstrate an outstanding levels of creativity and problem solving in the leadership of research programs. Research programs lead at this level involve unique problems, complex issues and can often require innovations where no precedent exists. The Scientific 5 level requires a much broader big picture focus that also includes: o influencing internal and external decision makers on strategic research direction o o leading the integration of solutions and; providing insight and recommendations regarding potential large scale implications. Scientific Ladder February 2012 Page 12 of 12