Scientific modelling SCMO

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Applying computer simulation and other forms of computation to solve real-world problems in scientific disciplines.

SFIA 9 is in development

SFIA 9 beta due in early July 2024
SFIA 9 planned for publication October 2024

Guidance notes

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Activities may include, but are not limited to:

identifying relevant mathematical principles and scientific theory within a computational model
creating, testing and tuning scientific models through the application of computing
validating and interpreting computational models against the reality which the models attempt to represent.

Understanding the responsibility levels of this skill

Where lower levels are not defined...

Specific tasks and responsibilities are not defined because the skill requires a higher level of autonomy, influence, and complexity in decision-making than is typically expected at these levels. You can use the essence statements to understand the generic responsibilities associated with these levels.

Where higher levels are not defined...

Responsibilities and accountabilities are not defined because these higher levels involve strategic leadership and broader organisational influence that goes beyond the scope of this specific skill. See the essence statements.

Developing skills and demonstrating responsibilities related to this skill

The defined levels show the incremental progression in skills and reponsibilities.

Where lower levels are not defined...

You can develop your knowledge and support others who do have responsibility in this area by:

Learning key concepts and principles related to this skill and its impact on your role
Performing related skills (see the related SFIA skills)
Supporting others with tasks (generic examples are provided by the essence statements for each level)

Where higher levels are not defined...

You can progress by developing related skills which are better suited to higher levels of organisational leadership.

Levels

Defined at these levels:

Click to learn why SFIA skills are not defined at all 7 levels.

Show/hide extra descriptions and levels.

Level 1

Level 1 - Follow: Essence of the level: Performs routine tasks under close supervision, follows instructions, and requires guidance to complete their work. Learns and applies basic skills and knowledge.

Level 2

Level 2 - Assist: Essence of the level: Provides assistance to others, works under routine supervision, and uses their discretion to address routine problems. Actively learns through training and on-the-job experiences.

Level 3

Level 3 - Apply: Essence of the level: Performs varied tasks, sometimes complex and non-routine, using standard methods and procedures. Works under general direction, exercises discretion, and manages own work within deadlines. Proactively enhances skills and impact in the workplace.

Scientific modelling: Level 4

Level 4 - Enable: Essence of the level: Performs diverse complex activities, supports and supervises others, works autonomously under general direction, and contributes expertise to deliver team objectives.

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Analyses the real-world problem, then selects appropriate physical and mathematical models to approximate the phenomena under investigation.

Applies relevant mathematical techniques to simulate the problem.

Conducts quality and performance assessments on computational model outputs and makes improvements to the models.

Provides advice and guidance to the users of these models.

Scientific modelling: Level 5

Level 5 - Ensure, advise: Essence of the level: Provides authoritative guidance in their field and works under broad direction. Accountable for achieving workgroup objectives and managing work from analysis to execution and evaluation.

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Investigates real-world problems to assess whether existing scientific models provide effective solutions.

Creates new mathematical representations of the underlying science that can be implemented in a computational model. Applies advanced programming techniques to implement scientific models and apply these for problem-solving.

Analyses the functioning of existing computational models to improve accuracy and performance.

Communicates limitations such as uncertainty and systematic errors. Ensures appropriate usage of computational models.

Scientific modelling: Level 6

Level 6 - Initiate, influence: Essence of the level: Has significant organisational influence, makes high-level decisions, shapes policies, demonstrates leadership, fosters organizational collaboration, and accepts accountability in key areas.

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Initiates the creation, testing, improvement and application of mathematical model frameworks representing real-world systems and scientific theories.

Sets standards and approaches for the application of scientific modelling.

Oversees the representation of science and mathematics principles and theories in models to ensure appropriate, consistent and effective usage.

Develops or introduces new mathematical techniques where necessary.

Scientific modelling: Level 7

Level 7 - Set strategy, inspire, mobilise: Essence of the level: Operates at the highest organisational level, determines overall organisational vision and strategy, and assumes accountability for overall success.

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Directs the creation and review of a cross-functional, enterprise-wide approach and culture for scientific modelling.

Leads the development of the organisation’s scientific modelling capabilities and champions its use in solving real-world problems.