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- Tasks: Lead and manage scientific research, ensuring quality and strategic delivery.
- Company: Join the Environment Agency, a key player in environmental science and policy.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible working, travel opportunities, and a commitment to diversity and inclusion.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on environmental science while developing your leadership skills.
- Qualifications: Doctorate in a relevant science field with proven leadership experience required.
- Other info: Extensive travel and potential for additional payments during emergencies.
The predicted salary is between 43200 - 72000 £ per year.
The Head of Research leads the scientific research in the Chief Scientist’s Group, providing professional science advice and maintaining research standards across the Environment Agency. They foster relationships with the science community in government and beyond to advance the organisation's science.
Key responsibilities include:
- Lead, plan, and monitor the strategic direction and delivery of approximately £7m annually in research supporting the agency's strategy and outcomes.
- Adapt to changing research needs and explore new delivery methods.
- Lead, develop, and motivate teams to deliver quality results on time and within budget, supporting staff development, health, safety, and wellbeing.
- Conduct personal research to maintain scientific credibility.
- Influence external science programmes to maximize benefits for the organisation and advise the Chief Scientist on funding applications to Research Councils.
- Provide scientific advice during emergencies, especially related to radioactive incidents, and represent the Chief Scientist at SAGE if needed.
- Ensure scientific quality across the organisation, approve major projects, and review project summaries, including those from the Chemicals Analysis Unit for HSE and UK Chemicals Agency contributions.
- Respond to incidents as part of your role, with training and support provided, potentially attracting additional payments.
The team comprises 75 staff, including senior scientists leading research themes, and support functions in programme planning, finance, communication, and partnerships.
Experience and Skills Required:
- Doctorate or equivalent in a relevant science field, with professional standing for credibility.
- Proven inclusive leadership in a scientific environment, managing teams and budgets.
- Ability to analyze scientific data for decision-making.
- Experience influencing external partners and disseminating scientific evidence.
- Recent R&D experience; knowledge of the Environment Agency's science is advantageous.
Key skills: leadership, communication, relationship-building, programme/financial management, results delivery.
Additional Information: Extensive national and some international travel required.
We promote diversity and inclusion, flexible working, and guaranteed interviews for disabled applicants.
Deputy Director and Head of Research in the Chief Scientist\'s Group - 30929 employer: Environment Agency
Contact Detail:
Environment Agency Recruiting Team
ChiefScientistPA@environment-agency.gov.uk
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Deputy Director and Head of Research in the Chief Scientist\'s Group - 30929
✨Tip Number 1
Network with professionals in the scientific community, especially those connected to the Environment Agency. Attend relevant conferences or seminars where you can meet potential colleagues and learn more about current research initiatives.
✨Tip Number 2
Familiarise yourself with the latest research trends and challenges faced by the Environment Agency. This will not only help you understand their needs but also allow you to discuss how your expertise can address these issues during interviews.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to showcase your leadership experience in scientific settings. Think of specific examples where you've successfully managed teams or projects, as this role requires strong leadership and the ability to motivate others.
✨Tip Number 4
Be ready to discuss your approach to collaboration with external partners. Highlight any past experiences where you've influenced scientific programmes or worked with stakeholders to achieve common goals, as this is crucial for the role.
We think you need these skills to ace Deputy Director and Head of Research in the Chief Scientist\'s Group - 30929
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights your relevant experience in scientific research and leadership. Emphasise your ability to manage teams and budgets, as well as any specific projects that align with the role's requirements.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: In your cover letter, clearly articulate your motivation for applying and how your background aligns with the responsibilities of the Deputy Director role. Mention your experience in influencing external partners and your understanding of the Environment Agency's science.
Highlight Relevant Skills: Focus on key skills such as leadership, communication, and programme management in your application. Provide examples of how you've successfully delivered results in previous roles, particularly in a scientific context.
Prepare for Potential Questions: Anticipate questions related to your experience with scientific data analysis and decision-making. Be ready to discuss how you would approach leading research initiatives and fostering relationships within the scientific community.
How to prepare for a job interview at Environment Agency
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
As a Deputy Director, you'll need to demonstrate your inclusive leadership style. Prepare examples of how you've successfully managed teams and budgets in previous roles, highlighting your ability to motivate and develop staff.
✨Understand the Organisation's Science
Familiarise yourself with the Environment Agency's scientific work and recent research initiatives. Being able to discuss how your experience aligns with their current projects will show your genuine interest and understanding of their mission.
✨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions
Expect questions that assess your ability to respond to emergencies, particularly related to radioactive incidents. Think through potential scenarios and how you would provide scientific advice under pressure, showcasing your decision-making skills.
✨Highlight Your Relationship-Building Abilities
The role involves fostering relationships with external partners. Be ready to discuss your experience in influencing stakeholders and disseminating scientific evidence, as this will be crucial for advancing the organisation's science.
