As a Manager of Pure Mathematics in the Department of National Defence, you provide strategic leadership and scientific direction to mathematicians and researchers engaged in theoretical and applied mathematical research. You oversee the development and execution of mathematics research programs that support defence and security objectives, manage team performance and professional development, and ensure alignment with departmental priorities and government science strategies.
Your responsibilities include supervising research teams, allocating resources and budgets, setting research priorities, evaluating project outcomes, and communicating findings to senior leadership and external stakeholders. You contribute to the advancement of mathematical science within DND while ensuring research supports operational and strategic defence requirements. You may also represent the department at scientific conferences, collaborate with universities and international research partners, and mentor emerging mathematicians within the organization.
You work in a dynamic environment that values evidence-based decision-making, scientific integrity, and innovation. This role offers the opportunity to influence defence and security policy through rigorous mathematical research and to lead high-performing teams of specialized scientists.
Key Responsibilities
Plan and manage the delivery of pure mathematics services and programs, Supervise and develop staff within the pure mathematics team, Monitor performance metrics and report on results, Develop and implement operational plans and procedures, Manage stakeholder relationships and ensure service quality
Required Skills
Research design, Statistical analysis, Laboratory techniques, Scientific writing, Data interpretation, People management, Operational oversight, Quality assurance, Resource coordination
Typical Education
Post-secondary education in the relevant field; supervisory and operational management experience
Training
To be considered for this position, you typically need a Master's degree in Pure Mathematics, Applied Mathematics, or a closely related mathematical discipline. Many successful candidates hold a PhD in mathematics or a related field. You should have professional experience managing research teams and projects, with demonstrated expertise in pure mathematics research methodologies and theory.
Professional development opportunities include participation in advanced mathematical symposiums and conferences, leadership training through the Canada School of Public Service, and collaboration with international research institutions. DND supports ongoing professional development through departmental science networks and access to specialized training in research management and governance. Membership in professional associations such as the Canadian Mathematical Society is encouraged and supported.
Entry Plans
Entry into this management role typically occurs through internal competitions within the federal Public Service. The most common pathway is from a senior Pure Mathematics Scientist position where you have demonstrated research excellence and emerging leadership capability. The Public Service Commission (PSC) manages competitions for manager-level positions, which are advertised on the Government of Canada Job Bank.
If you are not currently in the federal Public Service, you may enter as a Pure Mathematics Scientist at an earlier career stage and progress to management through performance and competition. Lateral moves from other government departments with equivalent management experience in science or research are also considered. DND occasionally recruits external candidates directly into manager positions when specific expertise and leadership experience are required, typically through targeted recruitment or executive search processes. Interested candidates should monitor the Government of Canada careers website and connect with DND's recruitment services to learn about upcoming opportunities.
Part-Time Options
Part-time work options are available for this role and are arranged on a case-by-case basis depending on operational requirements and business needs. Most part-time managers in this role work on a reduced schedule (such as 3 or 4 days per week) while maintaining core management responsibilities for their teams.
Remote work and flexible scheduling are increasingly common for management positions in DND's science and research sector, particularly for activities such as research analysis, report writing, and virtual team meetings. However, some in-person presence is typically required for team leadership, performance discussions, and collaboration with colleagues. The specific arrangement depends on your location, team needs, and the nature of your research programs. Telework agreements are established in consultation with your manager and are subject to departmental policy and operational requirements. To discuss flexible work options, interested candidates should raise this during the recruitment process or with their hiring manager.
Related Careers
No related military careers on file for this position.
