Definition and Character of the Scientific Career System
- System covering recruitment, career progression, recognition, and reward for scientists
- Based on qualification, merit, and scientific productivity
- Allows career development within scientific expertise areas without status change
- Includes incentives for attraction and retention
Coverage of the System
- Applies to scientific personnel with master's and/or doctoral degrees directly involved in R&D
- Other qualified personnel in sensitive R&D positions may be included upon recommendation
- Initially covers National Science and Technology Authority (NSTA) and component agencies
- May extend to other government scientific personnel
- Covers disciplines in natural sciences, engineering, technology, medical and agricultural sciences
- May be expanded by recommendation of NSTA Director General
Ranks in the System
- Scientific ranks from Scientist I to Scientist V
- Minimum qualifications depend on degree and years of productive research work:
- Scientist I: Master's degree plus 10 years productive work, or doctoral degree plus 5 years
- Qualification for higher ranks defined by Scientific Career Council (SCC)
Salary and Compensation
- Salary schedule aligned with attached compensation plan
- Includes benefits and allowances similar to Career Executive Service
- Salary plan subject to revision with Office of Budget and Management concurrence
Administration and Governing Bodies
- Civil Service Commission (CSC) administers and has final authority
- Scientific Career Council (SCC) established jointly by CSC and NSTA
- Composition: CSC Chairman (Chairman), NSTA Director General (Co-Chairman), and ex-officio members from National Research Council, National Academy of Science and Technology, and University of the Philippines
- Special technical committees for biological, physical and engineering sciences, and others as needed
- Scientific Career Evaluation Committee (SCEC) within NSTA for preliminary candidate screening
Appointment and Advancement Procedures
- NSTA head requests SCEC assessment of candidates
- SCEC submits assessment to NSTA head who refers candidates to SCC
- SCC evaluates and recommends approval or disapproval
- NSTA head appoints with CSC approval, except highest rank appointed by the President
- Appointed scientists form a pool for special projects; return to post after project
- Temporary designation to Career Executive Service positions allowed with higher compensation maintained
Funding
- Implementation funds drawn from existing NSTA appropriations
- Future appropriations to provide continued funding
Criteria for Appointment
- Education: Advanced academic degree (master's or higher) from recognized institutions
- Productivity: Significant scientific outputs such as publications, discoveries, inventions, applications, books, and training of scientists
- Professional Standing: Recognition based on integrity and ethical standards
- Eligibility under PD 997 or RA 1080 mandatory
Training and Development
- Civil Service Academy and NSTA responsible for continuing training and development programs
Security of Tenure
- No demotion or divestment of rank except for cause under law
- Civil Service Law and Rules on discipline apply
Effectivity
- Rules effective upon approval