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.

About the role

NOC is on an ambitious and exciting journey to become the world’s most innovative ocean science research organisation, and our expertise are in demand. Our Applied Science team are key to delivering our ambitions, sitting at the intersection between marine business and ocean research, building compelling partnerships and delivering impactful commercial projects. Our team needs experienced scientists with a good understanding of marine businesses, who are passionate about linking science, technology and innovation with the evolving needs of marine industries.

We are seeking a specialist with knowledge and expertise in marine geotechnics, geophysics, or a closely related topic, to join our Applied Science team to develop and deliver commercial products and services for industry, government, and NGO clients. This role will be based in NOC Innovations (NOCi), a commercial subsidiary of the National Oceanography Centre (NOC). The NOCi team leverages the NOC’s scientific and technological capabilities to diversify income streams to the organisation and provide research-driven solutions that align with the NOC’s broader mission and strategic goals.

You will have the opportunity to take ownership of this topic within the Applied team, working closely with our Commercial Development Managers to identify external stakeholders and their needs, map these onto NOC capabilities and ultimately design commercial products and services. This includes identifying new business opportunities, preparing proposals and speculative tenders and responding to direct client requests. You will work closely with clients to understand their objectives and build projects together, ultimately producing evidence-based insights of benefit to both the client and NOC’s research ambitions. Findings will be delivered in detailed reports and presentations, with opportunities to present at industry or scientific conferences and publish in peer-reviewed journals. Some UK and overseas travel will be expected, both broaden NOC exposure and for personal development opportunities.

This is a dynamic role that will suit someone comfortable working both independently and as part of a team, offering what we believe is a unique opportunity to work both with NOC scientists of global renown and key players in the evolving world of marine business.

About you

We’re looking for someone that’s passionate about the ocean, who really understands the importance of engaging with industry to deliver a better future for our blue planet and those who share it.

You will be experienced with marine industries, understanding their drivers and ways of working. Coupled with this should be a background of working within marine geotechnics, geophysics, or closely related topic. You will have a track record of work in one of these areas, either from within a commercial service provider, consultancy, research institute commercial division, or comparable knowledge. Experience with business development, implementing new ideas and solutions and a familiarity with commercial process within marine industries would be advantageous, as would a strong academic background.

Being able to manage collaborative projects with a focus on well-defined deliverables is essential, as is the ability to build relationships with both commercial clients and academic stakeholders.

You will be environmentally aware, scientifically curious and commercially astute, ideally with a network of relevant contacts. Expert communication skills are essential, as will being a self-starter with the ability to work independently and as part of a team, and manage multiple priorities.

Why NOC?

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 will be based in Southampton. The centre is well connected by public transport and has ample cycle parking in addition to free onsite car-parking with over 40 EV charging points.

We have a hybrid working approach where for most positions staff can split their time working from home and in the office. 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 careers@noc.ac.uk / 07955 851648.

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: 20 August 2025.

Closing date: 17 September 2025. This vacancy may close earlier depending on the number of applicants.

Please note we are not accepting applications via recruitment agencies for this position.

Applied Scientist - Geoscience and Geotechnics