Senior marine geoscientist

TN United Kingdom; City of Edinburgh; Hybrid; GBP 40,000 - 70,000; Full time

Job summary

An exciting opportunity has arisen for a Senior Marine Geoscientist to join a leading geoscience research center. In this role, you will lead projects that develop seabed geology maps and models, contributing to vital offshore renewable infrastructure. The position offers a chance to engage with cutting-edge research, collaborate with European partners, and share your findings through publications and conferences. With a strong commitment to diversity and inclusion, this role is perfect for those eager to make a significant impact in marine geoscience while enjoying a comprehensive benefits package, including an outstanding pension scheme and flexible working options.

Benefits

Outstanding pension scheme

30 days annual leave

Flexible working options

Remote working options

Qualifications

• PhD or equivalent experience in marine geoscience.
• Recognized expertise in areas like Quaternary geology and GIS analysis.

Responsibilities

• Lead projects developing seabed geology maps and models.
• Manage projects integrating seismic interpretation and borehole datasets.

Skills

Marine Geology

Quaternary Geology

GIS Analysis

Project Management

Communication Skills

Education

PhD in Marine Geoscience

Post-graduate experience in relevant fields

Tools

Seismic Interpretation Software

Kingdom

Petrel

Job description

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A great benefits package is offered including an outstanding pension scheme (with an extremely generous employer contribution – on average 27% of your pay), 30 days annual leave plus bank holidays.

Contract Type: Permanent

Hours: Full-time – 37 hours a week (some flexible and remote working options may be available)

Location: The Lyell Centre, BGS offices in Edinburgh (which are situated on the Heriot-Watt University campus)

About the role

An exciting opportunity has arisen for an enthusiastic and highly motivated Senior Marine Geoscientist to join the BGS Marine Geoscience Team at our offices in Edinburgh.

The Marine Geoscience Team is actively developing new maps and models of the seabed and shallow geology of the UK continental shelf. We provide expert geological knowledge to support a range of sectors (e.g., offshore renewable infrastructure, nature and conservation) and work closely with European partners to develop harmonised datasets that inform planning in the marine environment. We have a research portfolio that focuses on spatial characterisation of seabed geology and understanding past and present processes relevant to the UK continental shelf (e.g., former glaciation, marine geohazards).

As a senior marine geoscientist, you will contribute to and lead projects developing new seabed geology maps and models of the shallow subsurface. You will contribute to and manage commissioned projects integrating seismic interpretation, borehole datasets, and knowledge of Quaternary and marine processes to develop geological ground models supporting offshore renewable infrastructure development. You will also seek external funding through project bids and research grant applications. Sharing your knowledge externally through conferences, research papers, blogs, etc., will be encouraged.

Key duties and responsibilities

1. Contribute to and lead projects developing new seabed geology maps and models of the shallow subsurface.
2. Manage projects integrating seismic interpretation, borehole datasets, and marine processes to support offshore renewable infrastructure development.
3. Deliver written reports and outputs timely to project deadlines.
4. Seek external funding via project bids and research grants.
5. Share knowledge and communicate externally (e.g., conferences, publications, blogs).
6. Continuously develop your knowledge through training and engagement with the marine community.

About you

This role may suit someone with a marine geoscience PhD (or equivalent experience) with experience in a research or industry environment. Recognized expertise in marine geoscience and excellent specialist knowledge in areas such as Quaternary geology, GIS analysis, engineering geology, applied marine geology, or seabed geomorphology is essential. Experience leading project teams, delivering projects, and publishing peer-reviewed work is required. Skills in writing project bids or research grants, effective communication, teamwork, and project management are also important. The role may involve occasional travel.

The specific essential and desirable skills will be assessed at Shortlist and/or interview stages.

ESSENTIAL

• Post-graduate experience in relevant fields (e.g., Marine Geology, Quaternary Geology, Engineering Geology).
• Recognized expertise and specialist knowledge in at least one of the listed areas.
• Experience leading datasets interpretation and development of geological maps/models.
• Strong written communication and presentation skills, with a record of peer-reviewed publications or reports.
• Experience in writing research grants or project bids.
• Commitment to diversity and inclusion in geosciences.

DESIRABLE

• Skilled in seismic interpretation software (e.g., Kingdom, Petrel).
• Experience developing geological maps and models for decision-making.
• Ability to communicate science clearly to non-scientists.

Note: Security screening/vetting will be required, and UKRI may re-run security clearance during employment.

About us

The British Geological Survey (BGS) is an applied geoscience research center under UKRI, affiliated with NERC. It is a world-leading geological survey advising government and conducting applied research on earth and environmental issues globally. Funded by UKRI, grants, and private contracts, BGS employs around 650 staff with main sites in Keyworth and Edinburgh. It collaborates with private sector, universities, and sponsors PhDs.

How to apply

Applicants must include a CV and cover letter demonstrating their suitability, with specific examples matching the essential and desirable criteria. Applications should be well thought out and tailored. Interviews are expected in December 2024 in Edinburgh. For issues applying, contact [emailprotected].