Job Description

Put simply, we set the standards by which everything is measured. In doing so, the National Physical Laboratory is helping to combat issues on a global scale such as climate change, curing diseases and the development of cutting-edge communications technology. At NPL, we touch ordinary lives in extraordinary ways and you could too.




Research sits at the very core of our business. This is your chance to make an impact to our ground-breaking work as you apply your established knowledge and solutions to a range of technical activities. As we're always looking to stretch our capabilities, we'll look to you to spot potential commercial opportunities and to help raise our profile as and when you can. We work as a team here, so any learnings you do make, we'll expect you to share to support in our continued development (you might also turn your hand to mentoring more junior members too). Naturally, you'll keep your technical knowledge up-to-speed with the latest advances and take responsibility for completing your work to the highest standards, on time and within budget.

This role, in the Air Quality and Aerosol Metrology group, will be supporting day-to-day running of the UK Heavy Metals Air Quality Monitoring Network and delivering measurement service jobs in the heavy metals lab. This will be a combination of desk-based management of the network and analytical chemistry in the lab.


With a science-related degree, you have a solid background in research, able to work alone as well as part of a team.



You need to have experience of planning and delivering tried and tested procedures, as well as having the potential to explore new ideas yourself. You'll be expected to apply wet chemistry experience in both routine and investigative work. Experience in sample preparation and inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS) is desirable but not necessary - you will receive all required training on the job.



In addition, you will:


Produce routine and non-routine measurement results for inclusion in test reports and check reports produced by colleagues. Provide advice and support to customers, including capturing customer requirements and contributing to quotations, including scheduling of jobs. Deliver routine maintenance of facilities to an agreed schedule and ensure that standard operating procedures and equipment records are kept up to date. Ensure equipment records are current and that all equipment used has a valid calibration.

Beyond that, we're looking for someone who'll thrive in an environment like ours.



At NPL we learn from each other, respect each other and work together to do better for ourselves and for our customers. Whilst we're always looking to stretch beyond what we know, we don't make things more complicated when there's no need.

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 practical.




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.