The Ocean Technology & Engineering Group at NOC have an exciting opening for a new group head.
We are seeking someone who shares our passion for enabling new oceanographic science through the development and use of cutting-edge technology, e.g. autonomous sensors and instruments. This permanent leadership position is open to those with a background in technology development or scientists with a track record of collaboration with technology developers.
About the role:
Are you a leader passionate about the development of novel technology for oceanographic research? We are seeking a Head for NOC’s Ocean Technology & Engineering Group, which comprises around 35 research engineers and scientists from a broad array of backgrounds. The group has a strong history of developing novel custom technology for marine research applications, working closely with scientists within NOC and internationally to enable cutting edge scientific research. This role combines running the Ocean Technology & Engineering (OTE) group (~50% of time) and research leadership as a Principal Research Scientist or Principal Research Engineer (~50% of time).
The group head is responsible for overseeing the group's strategic priorities and direction, supported by the existing management and research leads within the group. Activities include coordinating and prioritising group activities, developing strategies for future research directions, communicating with stakeholders, and mentorship or managing staff.
Principal Research Scientists/Engineers (band 4) are highly accomplished researchers and leaders of significant research projects; they are the initiator of major projects, attract funding, and break into new research areas. In OTE, they lead projects and research programmes which drive the development of new technology and its application to oceanographic science. Science/engineering Leaders (band 3) are internationally-recognised leaders in their field; they have experience attracting funding for and running very large projects and creating and supporting international strategies or initiatives.
At present, the group focuses on developing technology for autonomous chemical sensing, in situ genomics, and the engineering of other new tools and platforms for ocean research. Technology developed by the group has been deployed around the globe, from the poles to the tropics, and from coasts to the deep seas, in support of a wide array of scientific themes. The group head is also encouraged to build on and guide activity in other new or complementary areas.
About you:
We are seeking someone who shares our passion for enabling new oceanographic science through the development of cutting-edge technology. The ideal candidate will have expertise which complements the existing work of the group, or which could take advantage of the group’s expertise and facilities to open up a new line of research activity. This could include individuals with a background in technology development for environmental or oceanographic applications or a scientist with a track record of collaboration with technology developers.
You will have a track record of leadership though managing projects and/or teams, and training or mentoring staff. You will be able to think strategically about the future and to create and articulate a vision for the future of ocean technology to a wide range of stakeholders.
As a Principal Research Scientist, you will be a highly accomplished researcher and leader of significant projects within an overarching research programme. You will have international standing, typically with a strong track record of post-PhD research experience, including successfully bidding for research funding, leading and developing research projects/teams, and producing high-impact outputs.
Other information:
The starting salary for this position will be £56,563 at band 4, or, for exceptional candidates, £70,573 at band 3. This position is open to individuals needing visa sponsorship.
This position will be based in Southampton: The centre is well connected by public transport and has ample cycle parking in addition to free onsite car-parking.
Closing date for applications is August 31, 2022. We anticipate that interviews for this position will be held in early September 2022.
