NERC Future Marine Research Infrastructure (FMRI) Lead Scientist

• Closing date: 28 November 2024
• Number of positions: One
• Length of term: Three years with potential for extension
• Time commitment: 0.5 to one full-time equivalent (FTE)
• Remuneration: Paid position

  NERC will compensate host institution for the Lead Scientist’s time commitment of 0.5 to one FTE

• Interview date: Week commencing 13 January 2025
• Outcomes communicated: 21 January 2025

The Natural Environment Research Council’s (NERC) FMRI programme is seeking a new lead scientist to shape the UK’s next major investment in its national marine research infrastructure.

You will ensure FMRI supports the ambitions of the UK science community into the next decade. This includes leading the FMRI Science Requirements Framework (SRF) for science-led decisions throughout the FMRI programme.

This can be a part-time role to allow individuals to continue research activities or management responsibilities with a minimum of 0.5 FTE in the Lead Scientist role.

For further queries about remuneration for the position email capitalrequirements@nerc.ukri.org

Who we’re looking for

Person specification:

• strong (or developing) reputation in environmental science or research, an understanding of national capability and particularly the planning and development of observational and digital infrastructures, and a clear grasp of the future environmental challenges we face
• ability to work within a multidisciplinary team
• proven track record of effective communication with stakeholders including academia, industry and the public
• understanding of research infrastructure, data management and the policy environment for marine research
• ability to evaluate evidence and use effectively within the ambiguity and complexity of major investment programmes
• experience in the planning and delivery of major (collaborative) programmes, particularly major change programmes

This can be a part-time role to allow individuals to continue research activities or management responsibilities, but a minimum of 0.5 FTE as FMRI Lead Scientist is required.

What you’ll be doing

You will be a key member of the FMRI programme delivery team with particular responsibility for ensuring alignment between the strategic direction and the stakeholder requirements.

As a champion of the programme, you will be expected to build and sustain key relationships across academia, government and reach across to the relevant industry sectors and the general public.

Your priority is to lead development of the FMRI SRF, and once complete, to ensure it continues to evolve in response to stakeholder need and to shape the FMRI programme by ensuring science-led decisions.

You will work closely with:

• FMRI Senior Responsible Owner
• SRF editorial group and champions
• Chair of the FMRI Science Advisory Group
• FMRI Programme Team, including Programme Director and Lead Engineer
• FMRI Board
• NERC staff

You will be additionally supported in your role by the FMRI Science Coordinator (0.5 FTE).

Where applicable, you will remain employed by your host organisation, with NERC reimbursing your host organisation for your time allocated to FMRI.

Hybrid working is expected with approximately four to five days per month travel to London, Southampton, and Cambridge, alongside less frequent UK and international travel.

How to apply

Submit your application through the online form.

The application form contains the following sections:

Personal information

For example, name, organisation and contact details.

Free text sections

The free text sections include:

• personal statement: provide a summary of the skills and experiences you can bring to the role of a Lead Scientist, addressing the criteria required in the person specification
• CV: provide your CV highlighting areas you consider are relevant for the role

Contact capitalrequirements@nerc.ukri.org if you have any questions.

How we’ll assess your application

Applications will be assessed by a panel comprising:

• FMRI Senior Responsible Owner
• FMRI Programme Director
• senior representatives from NERC Head Office

Shortlisted candidates will be invited to an interview with the panel.

If selected for interview, you will be assessed based on your personal statement and how well you meet person specifications.

We expect you to be able to commit the necessary time and attention to your appointment and to have the full support or the necessary permission of your employer.

Further information

Equality and diversity

NERC is committed to equality, diversity and inclusion, and welcomes applications from all suitable candidates. We encourage applications from a diverse range of researchers.

We especially encourage applications from women, those with a disability and members of minority ethnic groups, who are currently under-represented at senior levels in the research and innovation community.

We also support people to work in a way that suits their personal circumstances. This includes:

• career breaks
• support for people with caring responsibilities
• flexible working
• alternative working patterns

As part of UK Research and Innovation (UKRI) NERC is proudly disability confident.

Data protection

The data you provide will be used as part of the FMRI Lead Scientist recruitment process.

We will use your details to inform you about the outcome of your application and, if you are successful, to liaise with you about your post.

The information you provide will be used to assess your suitability for the role you’ve applied for.

Personal information will not be used for any other purpose without your consent.

Your data will be managed in line with UK Data Protection Legislation and handled securely.

For further information on how your data will be used, how we maintain the security of your information, and your rights under the Data Protection Legislation please refer to UKRI’s privacy notice.

Ask a question about this vacancy

Email: capitalrequirements@nerc.ukri.org

Last updated: 24 October 2024