Principal Scientist

Put simply, we set the standards by which everything is measured. In doing so, the National Physical Laboratory is helping to combat issues on a global scale such as climate change, curing diseases and the development of cutting-edge communications technology. At NPL, we touch ordinary lives in extraordinary ways and you could too.
Research is what drives our business. And it will be up to you to develop and lead your team, setting your technical area's strategic direction and ensuring your vision is delivered. When it comes to solutions, you don't just rely on established methodologies. To get the results you seek, you're willing to challenge what we do and how we do it, so that we're expanding our capability. In doing so, you'll be able to drive collaboration - internally and externally - to enhance activity and optimise commercial opportunities. Your passion for your work, means you already have a great network though which you'll promote our work, representing NPL and speaking wherever you're needed. As your work progresses, and new learnings established, you'll make sure you bring the team with you - training and developing them so that they grow with us. Your technical leadership will shape the interests of the UK.

We are looking for a proven scientific leader with expertise in climate modelling to join our Climate and Earth Observation group. We are world leaders in the theory, methods and practice of metrological traceability, quality assurance and fitness-for-purpose assessments of Earth Observation (EO), satellite and in situ instrumentation and their data products. Satellite-derived Essential Climate Variables (ECVs) provide comprehensive, consistent, and multi-decadal observations of the Earth's atmosphere, oceans, cryosphere and land surfaces. This information can benefit climate modelling in many ways, i.e. through provision of accurate initial model conditions, constraining multi-decadal reanalyses, as a basis for model evaluation/calibration and parameterisation of unresolved processes. However, there remain several barriers to the uptake of these data into the climate modelling discipline.

You will be based in Teddington and will combine your interpersonal and analytical skills to engage internal and external stakeholders to identify and secure opportunities for novel work, promoting the value of metrology and EO (satellite and in situ) data within the climate modelling community. You will use your skills in leadership and research design to guide a team of scientists at the interface of earth observation and climate models for climate relevant science, grounded in the application of metrological principles. You have a clear vision for your technical area, its application and impact to address national and international climate challenges and will work collaboratively with the Group Leader and senior scientists to align this to NPL's strategy.
To lead and inspire a team of this calibre, not only will you need to be a world-class expert in your field, you'll also need experience of motivating a team to do better. Inspirational, influential and a great relationship builder, you have the commercial awareness to help us achieve our ambitions. Beyond that, we're looking for someone who'll thrive in an environment like ours. At NPL we learn from each other, respect each other and work together to do better. For ourselves and for our customers. And whilst we're always looking to stretch beyond what we know, we don't make things more complicated when there's no need. Together, we're helping make the impossible, possible.
Please note: Applications will be reviewed, and interviews conducted throughout the duration of this advert therefore we may at any time bring the closing date forward. We encourage all interested applicants to apply as soon as possible.
We actively recruit citizens of all backgrounds, but the nature of our work in specific departments means that nationality, residency and security requirements can be more tightly defined than others. To work at NPL, you will need to obtain BPSS security clearance. Some departments may require a higher level of security clearance.
About Us

The National Physical Laboratory (NPL) is a world-leading centre of excellence that provides cutting-edge measurement science, engineering and technology to underpin prosperity and quality of life in the UK.

NPL and DSIT have strong commitments to diversity and equality of opportunity, and welcome applications from candidates irrespective of their background, gender, race, sexual orientation, religion, or age, providing they meet the required criteria. Applications from women, disabled and black, Asian and minority ethnic candidates in particular are encouraged. All disabled candidates (as defined by the Equality Act 2010) who satisfy the minimum criteria for the role will be guaranteed an interview under the Disability Confident Scheme.

At NPL, we believe our success is a result of the diversity and talent of our people. We strive to nurture and respect individuals to ensure everyone feels valued by treating everyone on the basis of their own individual merits and abilities regardless of their own or perceived identity, as part of our commitment to diversity & inclusion, we hold memberships and accreditations to ensure we're creating an environment where all our colleagues feel supported and welcome, please see our Diversity & Inclusion page.

We are committed to the health and well-being of our employees. Flexible working and social activities are embedded in our culture to create a positive work-life balance, along with a broad range of benefits. Our values are at the heart of what we do, and they shape the way we interact, develop our people and celebrate success.

To ensure everyone has an equal chance, we're always willing to make reasonable adjustments to the recruitment process. If you would like to discuss, please contact us.