Research Scientist - Bathing Waters & Shellfish Waters - Temporary Appointment - 20176

This is an exciting assignment opportunity for someone with a strong scientific background who can plan, co-ordinate and carry out research to support the Environment Agency's work on marine water quality, with a focus on Bathing and Shellfish Waters.

Some of the work will require you to either undertake desk-based research or to design, commission and manage external research undertaken by contractors or academics. A key part of the role is to establish good working relationships with internal partners and with researchers outside the Environment Agency including with other regulatory agencies. There is also the opportunity to work towards the development of a work programme of long-term research needs in relation to marine water quality.

You will be expected to maintain awareness of emerging issues for Bathing and Shellfish Waters through scientific literature and professional networks and to develop and maintain strong links to external research groups, identifying opportunities to collaborate. Within the Chief Scientist’s Group, you will be the main point of contact on all scientific aspects of marine water quality, including research.

Self-reliance will be important, as well as the ability to establish yourself as a credible scientist in this field.

The Research team within the Chief Scientist’s Group provides scientific expertise on a wide range of topics and lead the delivery of new research findings and tools to the Environment Agency. We work closely with colleagues across the organisation as well as external organisations to deliver functional, business focused solutions based on sound science.

You will have a degree, and possibly a higher degree, in a relevant scientific discipline e.g. marine science, environmental science, or microbiology. Experience of working on bathing or shellfish waters will be highly desirable. It is also important to show you are able to plan, deliver and report research, and to manage research projects conducted externally by contractors or academics. Flexibility is important as you may be involved in some projects that lie outside your expertise. The ability to cultivate effective relationships with colleagues and researchers internally and externally is essential.

This is a temporary appointment until end Dec 2022 to backfill for a member of the team currently on assignment. The post location is flexible and we support flexible working hours and practices to help you strike a good balance between your work life and your personal life. We are committed to diversity and inclusion. We want all our staff to feel valued and respected and to see this as a great place to work. We will also encourage you to keep developing your skills and professional knowledge. The post is desk-based and is not expected to require field-work or laboratory work. For an informal conversation about the vacancy, please contact Stuart Kirk on 07824 431 002 or Wiebke Schmidt on 078 330 469 83.

Sets and delivers high work standards, demonstrates the drive to meet targets. Prioritises and organises tasks and resources to ensure timely achievement of results

Applies scientific knowledge (various disciplines, depending on team role) to provide sound, science-based evidence to our internal and external customers.

Listens and questions to understand and engage. Conveys information and ideas clearly, accurately and persuasively through speech and writing.