Technical Director

Department for Environment, Food & Rural Affairs (DEFRA); City of Westminster; On-site; GBP 43,000; Full time

Job summary

A UK government department is seeking a Senior Scientific Officer to lead research projects and support policy development related to soil and peatlands. The role requires a postgraduate qualification in a relevant natural science discipline and involves engaging with various stakeholders to provide expert evidence-based guidance for policy decisions. The position offers a salary of £42,665, flexible working options, and a supportive culture.

Benefits

Defra pension contributions

Flexible working options

Supportive and inclusive culture

Qualifications

• Postgraduate qualification (preferably doctorate) in soil science, environmental science, geography, or agronomy.
• Experience in research and project management.
• Ability to communicate complex information effectively.

Responsibilities

• Support and critique policy on soil and peatland matters.
• Develop and manage research projects to fill evidence gaps.
• Act as key contact for soil and peatland science activities.

Skills

Scientific understanding of soil science

Excellent communication skills

Project management skills

Education

Postgraduate qualification in relevant natural science discipline

Job description

Overview

Defra’s Soil and Peat Science Team is looking for a Senior Scientific Officer to support policy development and deliver scientific evidence on soil and peatlands. The role requires an expert in soil science or a closely related discipline who can lead research projects, provide evidence‐based policy guidance and engage with a wide range of stakeholders.

Responsibilities

• Support, guide and critique policy on soil and peatland matters, ensuring evidence‑based decision making.
• Scope, develop, procure and manage research projects and contracts to fill evidence gaps.
• Act as the key point of contact for soil and peatland science activities across Defra.
• Build effective relationships and networks with leading academics, researchers and external partners.
• Provide expert input into official correspondence, briefings and ministerial submissions.

Essential Criteria

• Scientific understanding of soil science and broad awareness of policy issues affecting soils and peatlands in England.
• Experience of undertaking research and in the development and management of research projects.
• Excellent oral and written communication skills, with the ability to distil complex information and advise senior and non‑scientific audiences.
• Good project management skills, including leading the delivery of research projects, monitoring budgets and managing multiple works.

Qualifications

Postgraduate qualification (preferably doctorate) in a relevant natural science discipline (soil science, environmental science, geography, agronomy or similar), or significant related experience.

Behaviours

Assessment will focus on Communicating and Influencing, Making Effective Decisions, and technical skills such as Communicating science and handling evidence for government.

Selection Process

Applicants will submit a CV, a personal statement (max 750 words) and two behaviour statements (max 250 words each). The selection will involve a success‑profile sift followed by a full sift or interview, with a video interview, behavioural questions and a 10‑minute presentation.

Benefits and Working Arrangements

Salary band £42,665 plus Defra pension contributions; flexible working options; supportive and inclusive culture.