At a Glance
- Tasks: Translate complex scientific issues into clear insights for Parliament and the public.
- Company: Join the Parliamentary Office of Science and Technology, shaping national understanding.
- Benefits: 30-35 days annual leave, excellent pension scheme, and flexible working options.
- Other info: Hybrid working model with opportunities for professional growth and mentoring.
- Why this job: Make science and technology accessible in public policy while collaborating with experts.
- Qualifications: Degree in a relevant science field and strong research and communication skills.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
Job Description
What you'll be doing
Are you passionate about making science and technology accessible and impactful in public policy? The Parliamentary Office of Science and Technology (POST) is looking for a Physical Sciences and Digital Adviser to join its expert team. You'll play a vital role in informing MPs and Peers by producing impartial, peer-reviewed briefings that translate complex scientific issues into clear, reliable insights.
POST is part of the House of Commons Research and Information team, whose mission is to keep trusted knowledge and analysis at the core of Parliamentary debate. With over 19 million views of our online content annually, your work won't just inform Parliament, it will also serve as a key resource for the wider public.
This is a unique opportunity to shape national understanding of topics in the physical sciences and digital technologies space. You'll collaborate with leading researchers, select committees, policymakers, and academics to ensure Parliament is connected to the best evidence and expertise available.
This role is offered on a hybrid working basis, with an expectation of you spending 40% of your time in the office.
Find out more about working at the House of Commons.
Why Join us?
In addition to your salary, we offer an attractive range of benefits including but not limited to:
- Generous annual leave starting at 30 days per year and increasing to 35 after one full working year.
- Enrolment in the excellent Civil Service pension scheme with an average employer contribution of 27%
- Flexible working options that help you find a balance including enhanced maternity, paternity, shared parental and adoption leave, caring leave and alternative working patterns.
What we're looking for
We're looking for someone with the skills and collaborative mindset to thrive in a dynamic parliamentary environment. You'll bring the following:
- You'll hold a degree in a relevant science field and a postgraduate qualification in a relevant subject (e.g. MSc, MEng, PhD or EngD) OR you'll have relevant work experience.
- In-depth subject knowledge in at least one area of the physical sciences or digital technologies, with strong awareness of related policy and current affairs.
- Proven research skills, including the ability to critically assess evidence and draw out the key issues for a non-specialist audience.
- Excellent communication skills, with the ability to explain complex topics clearly and objectively.
- Good collaboration skills with experience in mentoring and building inclusive professional relationships.
- You'll be proactive, with excellent project management and time prioritisation skills.
Next Steps and Additional Information:
- Application Form - If you would like to apply for this role, please submit an application providing evidence against criteria 2-5 in the Job Description.
More information on the application process can be found here: Application process - UK Parliament and in the attached application support pack. If you are invited to interview, the questions will be shared with you in advance.
Please note that most job offers will be made at the minimum of the salary range, other than in exceptional circumstances.
Information Sessions
As part of the process, we will be running virtual information sessions on MS Teams for you to find out more about this role.
These sessions will be on:
- Thursday 9th October at 16:00 - 17:00.
- Wednesday 15th October at 12:00 - 13:00.
To register to attend, please book your slot via Eventbrite here. If you are an internal staff member, please email Georgia Pearse (Recruitment Advisor) to receive the Teams invite.
#LI-Hybrid
Physical Sciences and Digital Adviser employer: HOUSE OF COMMONS-3
The Parliamentary Office of Science and Technology (POST) is an exceptional employer, offering a unique opportunity to influence public policy through science and technology. With generous benefits such as 30 days of annual leave, a robust pension scheme, and flexible working options, POST fosters a collaborative and inclusive work culture that prioritises employee growth and well-being. Located in the heart of Parliament, you will engage with leading researchers and policymakers, making a meaningful impact on national understanding while enjoying a supportive environment.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Physical Sciences and Digital Adviser
✨Get Involved in Research Communities
Dive headfirst into the scientific research world by joining relevant communities and forums. Engage in discussions, share your insights, and even attend conferences or seminars in your field. This not only boosts your visibility but can also lead to potential job opportunities—don't forget to connect with like-minded folks!
✨Show Off Your Research Projects
Have you worked on any cool research projects? Make it easy for potential employers to see your work by creating a portfolio or a personal website. This way, when you apply for roles like the one at HOUSE OF COMMONS-3, you can point them to your projects and publications, showcasing your expertise directly.
✨Utilise Professional Networks
Networking is key in scientific research. Join professional bodies or organisations related to your field. They often have job boards and resources tailored for job seekers. Make connections with professionals who may know about openings or can give you tips on landing a full-time position.
✨Keep Your Eyes on Openings & Apply Directly
Don’t just rely on job boards! Keep an eye on the careers section of the websites of companies like HOUSE OF COMMONS-3. Apply directly through their website because sometimes they post jobs there before anywhere else. Plus, it shows your proactive approach!
We think you need these skills to ace Physical Sciences and Digital Adviser
Some tips for your application 🫡
Highlight Your Research Experience:When applying for a full-time role in scientific research, make sure to emphasise your research experience prominently in your CV. Share specific projects you’ve worked on, the methodologies you used, and any significant findings. If you’ve published papers or presented at conferences, definitely include that too – it shows you’re on it in the academic world!
Tailor Your Cover Letter to the Research Area:Your cover letter should reflect your passion for the specific area of research at HOUSE OF COMMONS-3. Mention relevant experiences that align with the organisation’s goals or projects. This shows that you’ve done your homework and are genuinely interested in the position – plus, it helps us see how you’d fit into the team dynamics.
Showcase Your Data Analysis Skills:In scientific research, data analysis skills are a big deal! Make sure to detail any relevant analytical tools or software you’re familiar with, like R, Python, or statistical packages. Employers are keen to know you can handle the data-heavy elements of the role, so add specific examples where you’ve used these skills effectively.
Discuss Your Future Research Goals:In your motivation section, it’s a great idea to talk about your future research goals and how they align with the work being done at HOUSE OF COMMONS-3. This shows that you’re not just looking for any job, but rather a chance to contribute meaningfully to the field. We love to see applicants who are forward-thinking and enthusiastic about their research journey!
How to prepare for a job interview at HOUSE OF COMMONS-3
✨Showcase Your Research Skills
In scientific research, it’s crucial to demonstrate your ability to design and conduct experiments. Come armed with examples of past projects where you've developed hypotheses, collected data, and analysed results. Be ready to discuss any specific methodologies or tools you’ve used, like PCR techniques or statistical software.
✨Prepare for Technical Questions
Expect some technical questions specific to your field. Make sure you're up to speed with recent advancements in scientific research related to the role at HOUSE OF COMMONS-3. Brush up on concepts relevant to their projects and be prepared to discuss how you would approach a specific research problem or challenge they might face.
✨Know Your Publications
If you've authored or co-authored any papers, be prepared to discuss them! Highlighting your contributions to published research can really set you apart. It shows not only your expertise but also your ability to communicate complex ideas clearly, which is key in scientific research roles.
✨Exhibit Your Team Spirit
In full-time roles, collaboration is often at the heart of scientific research. Prepare examples that show how you've successfully worked in teams, dealt with conflicts, or contributed to group projects. We want to know how you can work effectively with the team at HOUSE OF COMMONS-3 to drive research projects forward.
