Research Scientist - Marine Geohazards

We are the National Oceanography Centre (NOC) - the UK’s leading institution for integrated coastal and deep ocean research. Through our ground-breaking research, collaboration, and game-changing innovation we work to gain a deeper understanding of our ocean, helping every living thing on our planet flourish. We are made up of a dynamic and vibrant community focused on solving challenging long-term marine science problems, underpinning international and UK public policy, business and societal outcomes. The ocean has the potential to provide the solutions to so many of the social, economic and environmental challenges we face worldwide. To truly harness the value of the ocean, we put ocean research, science and discovery at the heart of our culture. Join us in shaping the future of oceanographic research and contribute your unique perspective to our organisation.

About the role

We are seeking to recruit an enthusiastic marine geoscientist with experience in acquisition, analysis and integration of scientific datasets in relation to offshore geohazards research. You will contribute to several exciting multidisciplinary and international projects investigating marine geohazards that include submarine landslides, turbidity currents, tsunamis, and volcanoes and associated hazards (including pyroclastic density currents and lahars). You will contribute to world-class research, supporting the delivery of active funded projects that span:

• land-ocean characterisation of lahars in the Caribbean;
• volcanic hazards in the Aegean Sea;
• multi-hazards across the South Pacific that affect small island developing states;
• novel source to sink direct monitoring of turbidity currents in the NE Atlantic;
• earthquake-triggered submarine landslides and tsunami in the Kingdom of Tonga.

The successful applicant will join the thriving Marine Geoscience research group at the NOC, whose expertise includes volcanology, seismology, rock physics, geochemistry and sedimentology, and will have access to world-class research facilities. This role will involve collaboration with groups across the NOC, which encompass a wide range of ocean science, technology and engineering. The post-holder will have the support to continue to develop their skills and career, to grow their research portfolio in the area of marine geohazards, and to develop collaborations nationally and internationally. They will have the opportunity to engage with ongoing research programmes at NOC as well as having the time to develop their own projects, research direction and science leadership skills. The role will require overseas travel including attendance at workshops and conferences, onshore fieldwork, and participation in seagoing expeditions on British and other research vessels.

About you

We are looking for a candidate that brings research experience in analysis and interpretation of some or all of the following:

• seafloor mapping;
• sediment coring;
• hydrodynamic monitoring (e.g. Acoustic Doppler Current Profiler);
• satellite and remote sensing;
• socioeconomic impacts of natural hazards.

Applicants should have (or be in the process of completing) a PhD in geology or a geoscience/Earth science related subject.

Why NOC?

We offer a generous set of benefits, including:

• 30 days contractual annual leave, plus 3.5 extra closure days and bank holidays;
• a 10% employer contribution pension scheme;
• access to our Employee Assistance Programme, offering free and anonymous support on mental, physical, emotional, health and financial issues;
• access to a flexible benefits portal offering online discounts, cashback and eGift cards;
• a Cycle2Work scheme allowing employees to acquire bikes and accessories;
• a great working environment with a number of social events, including summer and Christmas celebrations;
• we are proud to be a Living Wage Employer.

Location

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 with over 40 EV charging points. We have a hybrid working approach where for most positions staff can work from home up to 2 days per week. If you are interested in this position, but require a more flexible working arrangement, please contact the recruitment team using the contact details below. We can support visa applications where required. We may be able to offer financial support for applicants who will need to relocate for this position.

Submitting an application

Please click ‘Apply for this job’ and submit an up-to-date CV and cover letter. If you are unable to apply online, please contact the NOC recruitment team at careers@noc.ac.uk / 07955 851648. Before submitting your application please ensure you have reviewed the attached job description and person specification.

We are committed to fostering diversity and inclusion in our workplace. We actively encourage qualified candidates from all backgrounds to apply for this position, as we strive to create a supportive and equitable environment where all voices are valued and heard. Those seeking employment at NOC are considered solely on their qualifications, skills and experience, without regard to gender, gender identity, age, race, religion, disability, sex, sexual orientation, relationship status, family status (including pregnancy / maternity leave) or any other protected characteristic. There is a guaranteed interview scheme for candidates who meet the minimum criteria of the position and declare a disability. NOC is an Investors in People organisation.

Date advert posted: 2 June 2025. Closing date: 4 July 2025. This vacancy may close earlier depending on the number of applicants. Please note we are not accepting applications via recruitment agencies for this position.