At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead groundbreaking research on climate and ocean science to drive real-world impact.
- Company: Join the National Oceanography Centre, a leader in tackling ocean and climate challenges.
- Benefits: Enjoy 30 days leave, flexible working, and a supportive community.
- Other info: Hybrid working options available; we value diversity and inclusion.
- Why this job: Shape large-scale scientific missions and influence climate strategies globally.
- Qualifications: Proven expertise in ocean/climate science and experience leading multidisciplinary projects.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
Strategic Research Lead Ocean and Climate
National Oceanography Centre, Southampton or Liverpool
Permanent
Full time (37 hours per week)
£83, 672 - £92, 039
Please note that while we have used the job title \'Strategic Research Lead Ocean and Climate\' to advertise the vacancy, the official title of the position is \'Climate Mission Network Lead\'.
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.
Research to enable society to plan for climate change
We are seeking an exceptional researcher to join NOC in this new, strategic role created to drive the delivery of one of four Missions that will deliver the new NOC Strategy. This is a unique opportunity to direct research that will inform how society plans for, adapts to, and mitigates against environmental change, while working within a world-class research environment.
We are especially looking for researchers with a very strong background in climate and physical oceanography and/or the impacts of climate on ocean biogeochemistry.
This is a unique opportunity to direct research that will inform how society plans for, adapts to, and mitigates against environmental change, while working within a world-class research environment.
About the NOC Mission Networks
The NOC Strategy is structured around four major Missions, each delivered through a flexible, multidisciplinary and collaborative Network spanning the full breadth of NOC\'s expertise:
Climate – Society can plan for, adapt to & mitigate against environmental change
Biodiversity – Marine biodiversity is protected and thrives
Hazards and Pollution – People, infrastructure and ecosystems are protected
Sustainable Marine Economy – Marine-based economic activity is sustainably developed whilst protecting the ocean\'s future health
Mission Networks will bring together the ocean professionals across NOC to collaborate on major research challenges, develop strategic partnerships, and maximise the real-world impact of our work.
About the Role
This vacancy is for one of two Climate Mission Network Leaders. With expertise in global to local environmental changes and impacts, you will provide strategic direction to this multidisciplinary network, shaping and guiding a coordinated programme of research, innovation, and collaboration. You will:
Jointly oversee the delivery of NOC\'s Climate Mission
Strengthen cross-functional collaboration across NOC\'s teams and programmes to enable delivery
Develop and grow external partnerships—nationally and internationally
Represent NOC\'s climate work to key stakeholders, funders, and partners
Ensure delivery of a high-impact portfolio of climate-related projects and programmes, including in your own area of research
Advise NOC\'s Executive Team and Board
You will join a small team of Mission Network Leaders who have been appointed to the direct the NOC Missions. You will continue to develop and grow your own internationally significant area of research.
While this position does not include teaching responsibilities, there are opportunities to co-supervise graduate students as part of NOC\'s broader research and training environment.
About you
A proven researcher with an international profile and deep expertise in ocean and/or climate science, you can demonstrate your passion for climate science and how your inspiring and collaborative leadership style enables others to deliver excellent research outcomes. You are motivated by the opportunity to shape large-scale scientific missions with real-world impact.
You will have:
- International standing in ocean and/or climate research, with a strong research track record
- Experience leading complex, multi-disciplinary research projects
- A proven track record of securing and delivering major research funding, including multi-institutional collaborations
- Strong leadership and strategic vision, with experience influencing science and policy at a national or international level
- Excellent relationship-building skills with internal teams and external partners
- A strong portfolio of impactful outputs, including peer-reviewed publications
- Experience contributing to national or international science strategies
- Experience of mentoring and developing researchers
Why NOC?
At the National Oceanography Centre, we\'re at the forefront of tackling the world\'s biggest ocean and climate challenges. In this role you will be empowered to influence the NOC\'s high-impact science and strategic research directions, supported by an ambitious and collaborative research community.
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 can be based in Southampton or Liverpool. Our Southampton site is well connected by public transport and has ample cycle parking in addition to free onsite car-parking with over 40 EV charging points. The Liverpool centre is part of the University campus and is only a short walk from the city centre and Lime Street station.
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 /
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: 17 September 2025.
Closing date: 15 October 2025.
Strategic Research Lead Ocean and Climate in Liverpool employer: National Oceanography Centre
At the National Oceanography Centre, we pride ourselves on being at the forefront of addressing critical ocean and climate challenges. Our collaborative work culture fosters innovation and empowers researchers to make a real-world impact, supported by generous benefits such as 30 days of annual leave, flexible working arrangements, and a commitment to employee well-being. With opportunities for professional growth and a vibrant community in both Southampton and Liverpool, NOC is an exceptional employer for those passionate about climate science.
Contact Details:
National Oceanography Centre Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Strategic Research Lead Ocean and Climate in Liverpool
✨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 National Oceanography Centre, 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 National Oceanography Centre. 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 Strategic Research Lead Ocean and Climate in Liverpool
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 National Oceanography Centre. 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 National Oceanography Centre. 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 National Oceanography Centre
✨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 National Oceanography Centre. 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 National Oceanography Centre to drive research projects forward.
