Job Description

NPL is seeking an experienced Higher Scientist based in Teddington to plan and deliver a number of technical activities to take our research to the next level. This a fixed term contract of 12 months to cover a period of maternity leave and comes with a generous salary and benefits package.

Air Quality is a significant issue for UK and global societies; this is reflected in its increasing prominence globally, and its presence on national and local government agendas. NPL's Air Quality & Aerosol Metrology Group manages several UK Air Quality Networks, delivers essential metrological support to industry and is a recognised science and technology leader in the air quality field. We are looking for a dynamic and motivated individual to join work in our calibration laboratories on a fixed term contract of 12 months to cover a period of maternity leave.



You will have a degree or higher qualification in a physical science or related discipline, and experience of developing and applying robust scientific method to your work. Practical experience of carrying out scientific work in a laboratory is essential. Experience of performing instrument calibrations, working withing a quality system and a having strong eye for detail would be highly beneficial.



You will also have strong data processing and critical judgement and communication skills, be able to identify and implement improvements to processes and have a good working knowledge of data analysis methods and measurement uncertainty analysis.




As a Higher Scientist, you'll be expected to acquire new knowledge to find solutions to advance our research. Also, if commercial opportunities arise from your work, you'll need to flag these - as this is how new products and services are born. At NPL, we learn from each other, respect each other, and work together to do better for ourselves and our customers.

Your primary responsibilities will include:

Sharing your learnings so that we all benefit and mentoring those with less experience than you Developing partnerships to strengthen our capability Acting as an ambassador for our work externally and being willing to promote what we do

Key Responsibilities:

Independently carrying out the full calibration process from instrument receipt, setup, calibration, data analysis, to certificate production and verification under our quality system. Deliver work to external customer deadlines, whilst maintaining safety and quality. Actively contribute and implement ideas for continuous improvement of measurement services. Follow established Health and Safety protocols, particularly when handling chemicals and radioactive sources. Actively contribute and collaborate with the wider group to solve complex, non-routine calibration challenges in the evolving field of airborne and aerosolised nanoparticles. As work will be at NPL Teddington and Air Quality monitoring stations across the south of England, you must be prepared to work outdoors. Some sites are sited in urban areas so you must feel comfortable driving in busy city centre traffic; a current UK driving licence is essential.

We actively recruit citizens of all backgrounds, but the nature of our work in specific departments means that nationality, residency and security requirements can be more tightly defined than others. You will be asked about this throughout the recruitment process. To work at NPL, you will need to obtain BPSS security clearance.

Please note: Applications will be reviewed, and interviews conducted throughout the duration of this advert therefore we may at any time bring the closing date forward. We encourage all interested applicants to apply as soon as possible.




The National Physical Laboratory (NPL) is a world-leading centre of excellence that provides cutting-edge measurement science, engineering and technology to underpin prosperity and quality of life in the UK.



NPL and DSIT have strong commitments to diversity and equality of opportunity, and welcome applications from candidates irrespective of their background, gender, race, sexual orientation, religion, or age, providing they meet the required criteria. Applications from women, disabled and black, Asian and minority ethnic candidates in particular are encouraged. All disabled candidates (as defined by the Equality Act 2010) who satisfy the minimum criteria for the role will be guaranteed an interview under the Disability Confident Scheme.



At NPL, we believe our success is a result of the diversity and talent of our people. We strive to nurture and respect individuals to ensure everyone feels valued by treating everyone on the basis of their own individual merits and abilities regardless of their own or perceived identity, as part of our commitment to diversity & inclusion, we hold memberships and accreditations to ensure we're creating an environment where all our colleagues feel supported and welcome, please see our Diversity & Inclusion page.



We are committed to the health and well-being of our employees. Flexible working and social activities are embedded in our culture to create a positive work-life balance, along with a broad range of benefits. Our values are at the heart of what we do, and they shape the way we interact, develop our people and celebrate success.



To ensure everyone has an equal chance, we're always willing to make reasonable adjustments to the recruitment process. If you would like to discuss, please contact us.