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- Tasks: Lead scientific strategy and provide expert advice to ensure public health and food safety.
- Company: Join the Food Standards Agency, a key player in protecting consumers' interests in food across the UK.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible working arrangements and a supportive team environment.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on public health while working with top experts in a trusted organisation.
- Qualifications: Must be a credible scientist with experience in policy implications of scientific research.
- Other info: This is a part-time role with regular commitments in London.
The predicted salary is between 43200 - 72000 £ per year.
This is a rare opportunity to bring your scientific expertise to the forefront of protecting public health and ensuring trust in the food we eat.
The Food Standards Agency (FSA) is a non-ministerial department of over 1600 people. We play a critical role in protecting public health and consumers’ wider interests in food across England, Wales and Northern Ireland. Our vision is an important one – to drive change, delivering “food you can trust” and working towards a healthier and more sustainable food system.
The FSA is seeking an exceptional individual to take on the role of Chief Scientific Adviser (CSA). Science is at the heart of everything we do, and this role is critical in ensuring that the evidence we gather is robust, relevant, and effectively used to inform our strategy and policymaking. As CSA, you will provide independent, expert advice to both the FSA Board and Executive Team, helping to shape our strategic direction and ensuring that our decisions are grounded in the best available scientific knowledge.
You will play a vital assurance role, guiding our response to both long-term risks and urgent food safety incidents, and helping us maintain public trust in food. You will act as a key member of the Executive Management Team, reporting to the Board with a direct line to the Chair. The role is well supported by a dedicated team within our Science, Evidence and Research directorate, who help drive forward the CSA’s agenda and scientific engagement.
We are looking for a highly credible scientist with a national or international reputation in a field relevant to the FSA’s work. You will have experience advising on the policy or applied implications of scientific research, and a strong understanding of how science and evidence inform decision-making. You will be a skilled communicator, able to explain complex scientific issues clearly and persuasively to senior decision-makers, the media, and the public. Your ability to influence at Board level, operate effectively in high-pressure situations, and collaborate across disciplines will be key to your success.
This is a part-time (60%) position. While there are regular commitments in London, attending FSA meetings and events, we offer flexibility in terms of location and working pattern. What matters most is your scientific capability, your credibility, and your commitment to making a meaningful impact on public health and food safety.
If you are passionate about science and its role in protecting consumers, and you are ready to bring your leadership and expertise to one of the UK’s most trusted public bodies, we would love to hear from you.
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Chief Scientific Adviser employer: Food Standards Agency
Contact Detail:
Food Standards Agency Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Chief Scientific Adviser
✨Tip Number 1
Network with professionals in the food safety and public health sectors. Attend relevant conferences or seminars where you can meet key players in the field, as personal connections can often lead to job opportunities.
✨Tip Number 2
Stay updated on current trends and challenges in food safety and public health. Being well-informed will not only help you in interviews but also demonstrate your genuine interest and commitment to the role.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your previous experiences in advising on policy implications of scientific research. Be ready to provide specific examples that showcase your ability to influence decision-making at a high level.
✨Tip Number 4
Practice your communication skills, especially in explaining complex scientific concepts to non-experts. This is crucial for the Chief Scientific Adviser role, so consider mock interviews or presentations to refine your approach.
We think you need these skills to ace Chief Scientific Adviser
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Thoroughly read the job description for the Chief Scientific Adviser position at the Food Standards Agency. Make sure you understand the key responsibilities and required qualifications, as this will help you tailor your application.
Highlight Relevant Experience: In your CV and cover letter, emphasise your scientific expertise and any relevant experience advising on policy implications of scientific research. Use specific examples to demonstrate how your background aligns with the FSA's mission.
Communicate Clearly: Given the need for clear communication in this role, ensure that your application materials are well-structured and free of jargon. Aim to explain complex scientific concepts in a straightforward manner, showcasing your ability to communicate effectively with diverse audiences.
Show Passion for Public Health: Express your commitment to public health and food safety in your application. Share any personal motivations or experiences that have driven your interest in this field, as this will resonate with the FSA's vision of delivering 'food you can trust.'
How to prepare for a job interview at Food Standards Agency
✨Demonstrate Your Scientific Expertise
Make sure to highlight your scientific background and any relevant experience you have in advising on policy implications. Be prepared to discuss specific examples of how your expertise has influenced decision-making in previous roles.
✨Communicate Clearly and Effectively
As a Chief Scientific Adviser, you'll need to explain complex scientific concepts to various stakeholders. Practice articulating your thoughts clearly and concisely, ensuring that you can convey your ideas in a way that is easily understood by non-experts.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
This role requires strong leadership capabilities. Be ready to discuss instances where you've successfully led teams or projects, particularly in high-pressure situations. Highlight your ability to influence and collaborate with senior decision-makers.
✨Understand the FSA's Vision and Goals
Familiarise yourself with the Food Standards Agency's mission and current initiatives. Demonstrating a clear understanding of their goals and how your role as Chief Scientific Adviser aligns with them will show your commitment and enthusiasm for the position.
