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- Tasks: Lead innovative marine technology projects and develop cutting-edge ocean research tools.
- Company: Join the National Oceanography Centre, a leader in ocean research and innovation.
- Benefits: Enjoy 30 days leave, flexible benefits, and a supportive work environment.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on global ocean challenges while collaborating with top researchers.
- Qualifications: Post-PhD experience in technological research and proven project leadership required.
- Other info: Located in Southampton with great transport links and a commitment to diversity.
The predicted salary is between 45000 - 65000 £ per year.
Principal Research Engineer / Principal Research Scientist
Only for registered members
Southampton
GBP 45,000 – 65,000
Be among the first applicants.
4 days ago
Principal Research Engineer / Principal Research Scientist
Principal Research Engineer / Principal Research Scientist
1 month ago Be among the first 25 applicants
National Oceanography Centre provided pay range
This range is provided by National Oceanography Centre. Your actual pay will be based on your skills and experience — talk with your recruiter to learn more.
Base pay range
Direct message the job poster from National Oceanography Centre
Internal Recruiter and Talent Business Partner
National Oceanography Centre, Southampton
Permanent
Full time (37 hours)
Who are we?
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 looking for a Principal Research Engineer or Scientist to join NOC’s Ocean Technology & Engineering (OTE) team. The team develops novel, custom-designed technology to enable cutting edge scientific research in the oceans. Presently, our major application areas are the development of autonomous chemical sensors for in situ biogeochemical analysis, automated biological sampling and analysis, and a range of novel engineered tools for coastal and deep-sea work. We integrate our equipment into a wide range of platforms and deploy them internationally, approaching major ocean science challenges through first demonstrations of these technologies.
The successful applicant will be an accomplished researcher and leader of significant projects which will further the overarching research aims of OTE and NOC. Responsibilities include identifying important directions for marine technology research, leading bids for research funding, directing technology development, and managing research projects and staff.
This position does not have any teaching responsibilities but as a research institute our staff are able to co-supervise graduate students.
About you
You will have international standing in technological research with a strong track record of post-PhD research experience. You will have a track record of successfully leading bids for research funding at the national or international scale, including for multi-institutional projects. Your experience leading and developing research projects will be reflected in an extensive track record of impactful outputs including peer-reviewed papers.
Direct experience creating and successfully deploying new technology for environmental sensing applications, ideally in marine settings, is critical. We are seeking someone whose technical expertise will complement the existing experience of the group. You will have a thorough understanding of your subject specialism, coupled with an interdisciplinary approach and understanding of good engineering practice. You will have enabled the development of new technologies in the past, giving you a strong reputation for innovative research and intellectual leadership.
Why NOC?
We offer a generous set of benefits, including:
– 30 days contractual annual leave, plus 3.5 extra closure days and bank holidays
– 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 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 a cover letter outlining how your previous experience qualifies you for the role, along with a brief description of the research direction(s) you intend to pursue if successful in attaining this role.
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: 8 May 2025.
Closing date: 5 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.
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Principal Research Engineer / Principal Research Scientist (Southampton) employer: National Oceanography Centre
Contact Detail:
National Oceanography Centre Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Principal Research Engineer / Principal Research Scientist (Southampton)
✨Tip Number 1
Network with professionals in the marine technology field. Attend conferences, workshops, or webinars related to oceanography and technology to meet potential colleagues and collaborators. This can help you gain insights into the latest trends and possibly get a referral.
✨Tip Number 2
Showcase your leadership skills by discussing past projects where you led teams or secured funding. Prepare specific examples that highlight your ability to manage research projects and direct technology development, as these are key responsibilities for the role.
✨Tip Number 3
Familiarise yourself with the National Oceanography Centre's current projects and research focus areas. Tailor your discussions during interviews to align your expertise with their ongoing initiatives, demonstrating how you can contribute to their goals.
✨Tip Number 4
Prepare to discuss your experience with environmental sensing technologies, particularly in marine settings. Be ready to explain how your technical skills can complement the existing team at NOC, showcasing your innovative approach to solving marine science challenges.
We think you need these skills to ace Principal Research Engineer / Principal Research Scientist (Southampton)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights your relevant experience in marine technology research and project leadership. Emphasise your track record of securing research funding and any impactful outputs, such as peer-reviewed papers.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: In your cover letter, clearly outline how your previous experiences align with the responsibilities of the role. Discuss specific research directions you intend to pursue and how they will contribute to the National Oceanography Centre's goals.
Highlight Technical Expertise: Be explicit about your technical skills and experiences related to environmental sensing applications. Mention any innovative technologies you've developed or deployed, especially in marine settings, to showcase your suitability for the position.
Review Job Description Thoroughly: Before submitting your application, carefully review the job description and person specification. Ensure that your application addresses all key requirements and demonstrates your understanding of the NOC's mission and values.
How to prepare for a job interview at National Oceanography Centre
✨Showcase Your Research Experience
Be prepared to discuss your post-PhD research experience in detail. Highlight specific projects you've led, focusing on the outcomes and how they align with the goals of the National Oceanography Centre.
✨Demonstrate Technical Expertise
Since the role involves developing novel technology for marine applications, be ready to talk about your direct experience with environmental sensing technologies. Provide examples of how you've successfully deployed such technologies in the past.
✨Prepare for Funding Discussions
As leading bids for research funding is a key responsibility, come equipped with examples of successful funding applications you've managed. Discuss your approach to securing funding for multi-institutional projects.
✨Articulate Your Vision
In your interview, clearly outline the research direction(s) you intend to pursue if selected. This shows your proactive thinking and alignment with the NOC's mission to tackle ocean science challenges.
