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- Tasks: Lead innovative hydrology research and influence flood and drought science.
- Company: Join UKCEH, a leading independent research institute making a real environmental impact.
- Benefits: Enjoy 27 days annual leave, flexible working, and a supportive work environment.
- Why this job: Shape the future of hydrology while collaborating with top scientists in a dynamic setting.
- Qualifications: Strong background in hydrology and project management experience required.
- Other info: Inclusive workplace welcoming diverse candidates and offering sponsorship opportunities.
The predicted salary is between 53000 - 65000 £ per year.
Salary - £61,399 to £65,157
Hybrid working (50/50), Permanent
Location: Wallingford, Oxfordshire
Alternative Locations: Lancaster, Edinburgh or Bangor
Closing date for applications: Monday 9 February 2026. We reserve the right to close this advert early if we find the right candidate, so we encourage you to apply early.
UKCEH is looking for an experienced Principal Hydrologist to join our team of talented individuals, contributing to scientific discovery and generating the data, insights and solutions that researchers, businesses and governments need to solve complex environmental challenges. As a Principal Hydrologist, we need your help to shape the future of field hydrology research in the UK and beyond. This is an exciting opportunity to use your experience to influence the future science of floods and droughts and develop your own portfolio of research into process hydrology and geomorphology. You’ll be joining our Water and Climate Science group. UKCEH hosts the largest community of hydrological research scientists in the UK and is the national focal point for hydrological data and analysis. We continue to build on an internationally recognised portfolio of experimental catchments and long-term observational networks developed over more than 50 years.
Your main responsibilities will include:
- Building a body of work that is a recognizable contribution to the advancement of flood and/or drought science to develop a track record of high impact work
- Leading science and motivating staff across the Floods and Droughts Research Infrastructure project and building strong links to a wide range of projects within and beyond UKCEH
- Supporting the development of technical assistants and other hydrologists
- Leading and managing a diverse portfolio of research projects
- Engaging, maintaining good working relationships and influencing stakeholders and stakeholder networks
- Possessing a clear and strategic view of UKCEH science in relation to key national and international priorities
- Becoming known beyond UKCEH and collaborating externally, representing UKCEH values and science
The £38m Floods & Droughts Research Infrastructure project is building a world-leading hydrological observatory in the UK. You will join our implementation team to take a scientific lead in making sure the new FDRI Observatory provides the data and insights that will transform flood and drought research for the 21st century. You will work closely with our external Catchment Champion teams and the wider hydrological community.
For the role of Principal Hydrologist, we’re looking for somebody who has:
- A strong scientific background (degree level), hydrological research experience and an in-depth understanding and enthusiasm for field hydrology
- Experience of applying appropriate project management methods in the successful delivery of projects in a research or scientific setting
- Excellent communication and writing skills, used working with various media
- A wider understanding of applied hydrological science and opportunities for innovation in monitoring and analysis
- A desire to enthuse future generations of field hydrological scientists
Working for UKCEH is rewarding. We appreciate the continuous dedication and contributions of our staff, which is why we provide a comprehensive benefits package that includes financial incentives and wellbeing-oriented perks, such as:
- 27 days annual leave (rising to 29 days after 5 years’ service) plus 3 days for Christmas closure
- 10% employer pension contribution
- Flexible and hybrid working arrangements (role dependent)
- Peer reward and recognition scheme
- Dental insurance, gym/fitness discounts, retail discount portal
- Enhanced maternity and paternity leave
- 24-hour, 365-day support with physical, mental, social, health or financial issues
If this opportunity resonates with you and aligns with your personal career goals, the team would love to receive your application. Please apply by submitting your CV along with a supporting statement (300 – 500 words) covering your hands-on field experience in hydrology and your experience working on complex projects involving multiple organisations.
Our Commitment to Inclusion: At UKCEH, we are committed to creating an inclusive and equitable workplace where everyone has the opportunity to thrive. We welcome applications from people of all backgrounds, identities, abilities, and circumstances.
Principal Hydrologist in Bangor employer: UKCEH
Contact Detail:
UKCEH Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Principal Hydrologist in Bangor
✨Tip Number 1
Get your networking game on! Connect with professionals in the hydrology field through LinkedIn or local meetups. We all know that sometimes it’s not just what you know, but who you know that can land you that Principal Hydrologist role.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews like a pro! Research UKCEH and their projects, especially the Floods & Droughts Research Infrastructure. Show us how your experience aligns with their goals and be ready to discuss your ideas on advancing flood and drought science.
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t underestimate the power of follow-ups! After an interview, drop a quick thank-you email to express your appreciation. It keeps you fresh in our minds and shows your enthusiasm for the role.
✨Tip Number 4
Be proactive and apply through our website! The sooner you get your application in, the better your chances are. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take the initiative to reach out early.
We think you need these skills to ace Principal Hydrologist in Bangor
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the Principal Hydrologist role. Highlight your hands-on field experience in hydrology and any relevant projects you've worked on. We want to see how your skills align with what we're looking for!
Craft a Compelling Supporting Statement: Your supporting statement is your chance to shine! Use it to explain your key knowledge and skills gained from your field experience, and share insights from your work on complex projects. Keep it between 300-500 words and make it engaging!
Showcase Your Communication Skills: Since you'll be explaining complex ideas to non-specialists, it's crucial to demonstrate your communication skills in your application. Use clear and concise language, and maybe even include examples of how you've successfully communicated scientific concepts in the past.
Apply Early!: Don't wait until the last minute to submit your application. We might close the advert early if we find the right candidate, so get your application in as soon as possible through our website. We can't wait to hear from you!
How to prepare for a job interview at UKCEH
✨Know Your Hydrology
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of field hydrology and geomorphology. Be prepared to discuss your hands-on experience and how it relates to the role. Highlight specific projects you've worked on, especially those that involved complex data analysis or innovative monitoring techniques.
✨Showcase Your Communication Skills
Since you'll need to explain complex ideas to non-specialist audiences, practice articulating your research in simple terms. Think about examples where you've successfully communicated technical information to diverse stakeholders, and be ready to share these during the interview.
✨Demonstrate Project Management Experience
Be ready to discuss your experience with project management methods. Prepare examples of how you've successfully delivered projects in a research setting, particularly those involving collaboration across multiple organisations. This will show your ability to lead and motivate teams effectively.
✨Engage with UKCEH's Vision
Familiarise yourself with UKCEH's mission and current projects, especially the Floods & Droughts Research Infrastructure. Be prepared to discuss how your vision aligns with theirs and how you can contribute to their goals. Showing genuine interest in their work will set you apart from other candidates.
