UK Research and Innovation
Science Communication Industrial Placement
Job Location
Didcot, United Kingdom
Job Description
Science and Technology Facilities Council
Salary: £23,328 per annum
Hours: Full time
Contract Type: Fixed Term (12 months)
Location: Science and Technology Facilities Council, Rutherford Appleton Laboratory Harwell, Oxfordshire
Closing date: 20th October 2024
Interview date: December 2024/January 2025 (travel and accommodation will be reimbursed)
Start date: September 2025
Please note that we can only accept a maximum of 2 applications per candidate.
ISIS Neutron and Muon Source (ISIS)
ISIS Neutron and Muon Source produces beams of neutrons and muons that allow scientists to study materials at the atomic level using a suite of instruments, often described as 'super-microscopes'. It supports a national and international community of more than 3000 scientists who use neutrons and muons for research in physics, chemistry, materials science, geology, engineering, and biology.
The Particle Physics Department (PPD)
The Particle Physics Department builds detectors to answer fundamental questions in physics: collaborating on experiments around the world, including the Large Hadron Collider at CERN and neutrino detectors in the USA and Japan. Our physicists also analyse the data from these facilities and collaborate with researchers at various UK universities.
STFC Scientific Computing (SC)
STFC Scientific Computing is an international centre of excellence for advanced computing expertise and digital research infrastructure. We have a multidisciplinary, collaborative approach to addressing complex research and development challenges. Whether it's accelerating new drug discoveries, finding sustainable materials and new methods of tackling climate change, supporting the detection of gravitational waves or unlocking the secrets of the universe, we generate new technologies and discoveries that have real-world applications to benefit people worldwide.
The Central Laser Facility (CLF)
The Central Laser Facility (CLF) is one of the world's leading laser facilities providing scientists from the UK, Europe and around the world with an unparalleled range of state-of-the-art laser technology to carry out a broad range of pioneering experiments in physics, chemistry and biology. Our work impacts on the biggest challenges facing humanity - access to clean energy, health and wellbeing, the preservation of the environment which we all share and sustainable food production. We train people in advanced skills, drive economic innovation and encourage excellence in all that we do. We are currently on the path the building the world's most powerful laser, Vulcan 20-20 (20 Petawatts, 20 Kilojoules)
Brief overview of the scheme
STFC's incredibly diverse range of placements allow you to work alongside world leading engineers, scientists, and technicians in highly collaborative environments. Whichever you choose, you will become a critical member of the team in which you will be exposed to exciting projects and challenges from the start. You will be supported every step of the way by our dedicated Early Careers Development Team who will also ensure you benefit from a range of personal development opportunities.
STFC offers a benefits package crafted to provide an excellent work/life balance including 30 days' annual leave, 10.5 public and privilege days, Christmas closure and flexible working hours. For more information on our full list of benefits, please visit here .
About the role and a summary of key duties & responsibilities
We are looking to fill five science communication positions to play a full role in promoting STFC science to a range of audiences. You will join a departmental team that plays a major role within STFC, promoting science through a range of channels including websites, social media, video/audio/graphics, specialist and national media, events, exhibitions and education activities.
A passion for science and technology, an enjoyment of writing, a willingness to learn new things and the ability to explain sometimes complex subject matter in an engaging and understandable way to the general public is key for this role. This placement will allow you to develop your communication skills, both through written and other formats, by promoting our science to a wide range of audiences. You must be able to work well both individually and as part of a team and be interested in a wide range of scientific areas and how science impacts on society. You might be a science student wanting to switch into science communication or you might be a journalism student seeking to specialise in science.
The five positions will be based in the following departments:
The roles for each department differ slightly, but your responsibilities will generally include:
The above responsibilities will be conducted with the support and guidance of your manager. The placement will also include opportunities to drive your own communications projects and develop new skills via guidance, training, and the attendance of conferences.
To apply for this placement, we are looking for the following:
Key - Shortlisting (S), at Interview (I) or both (S&I)
Essential:
Part of our application process involves submitting your CV and a cover letter. Your cover letter should address your suitability for the opportunity based how you meet each essential criteria stated in this advert.
Please note that we hold the right to close this vacancy early if a sufficient number of applications have been received.
About The Science and Technology Facilities Council (STFC)
As one of Europe's largest research organisations, we ask the biggest questions in the universe to find answers that change the world around us. We seek understanding. We're proud of the impact we make. And we're committed to helping build a globally competitive, knowledge-based UK economy. Being part of all this means contributing to work that pushes boundaries and creates possibilities. You'll work with, and learn from, true experts. Whatever your role, you'll be free to question, and encouraged to share ideas. And, in a positive and supportive culture, you'll discover just what a difference you can make when you're equipped and inspired to excel.
We're a place where curious minds thrive. Not bound by profit, we explore ideas that others don't, ask questions that others won't, and discover answers that others are not equipped to find. And, alongside Mars landings and black holes, we also explore diverse, international projects in everything from science and engineering to computing and technology. Whether it's at the cutting edge or behind the scenes, our work is intellectually challenging. It's very often ground-breaking. And it's endlessly, irresistibly fascinating.
For more information about STFC please visit https://stfc.ukri.org/
You can also visit our careers site https://www.stfccareers.co.uk/
About UK Research Innovation (UKRI)
UKRI is an organisation that brings together the seven disciplinary research councils, Research England and Innovate UK. Together, we build an independent organisation with a strong voice and vision ensuring the UK maintains its world-leading position in research and innovation.
Supporting some of the world's most exciting and challenging research projects, we develop and operate some of the most remarkable scientific facilities in the world. We are pushing the frontiers of human knowledge through fundamental research and delivering benefits for UK society and the economy through world-class research, skills and business-led innovation.
More information can be found at www.ukri.org .
Choosing to come to work at UKRI means that you will have access to a whole host of benefits from a defined benefit pension scheme, excellent holiday entitlement, access to employee shopping/travel discounts and salary sacrifice cycle to work scheme. For more details, visit benefits of working for UKRI .
The role holder will be required to have the appropriate level of security screening/vetting required for the role. UKRI reserves the right to run or re-run security clearance as required during the course of employment.
How we support EDI in the workforce
At UKRI, we believe that everyone has a right to be treated with dignity and respect, and to be provided with equal opportunities to thrive and succeed in an environment that enables them to do so. We also value diversity of thought and experience within inclusive groups, organisations and the wider community. For further information, please visit 'How we support EDI in the workforce' .
Disability Confident Employer
As users of the disability confident scheme, we guarantee to interview all disabled applicants who meet the minimum criteria for the vacancy/ies. We will ensure that individuals with disabilities are provided reasonable accommodation to participate in the job application or interview process, to perform essential job functions, and to receive other benefits and privileges of employment. Please contact us to request accommodation.
How to apply
Online applications only preferred for this role. Please submit a CV and covering letter which clearly outlines how you fulfil the criteria specified along with your motivation for UKRI and the role. Ensure that the job reference number is included in the filename description of each document uploaded. Note that failure to address the above criteria or submit an application without a covering letter may result in the application not being considered. Assessment will only be based upon the content of your submitted covering letter and CV and not the 'experience' section of the application.
UKRI seeks to ensure it creates and maintains a system of openness, fairness and inclusion - a collaborative, trusted environment, which is attractive to and accessible to everyone who is interested in developing their career with us.
Additional Information
Location: Didcot, GB
Posted Date: 9/30/2024
Salary: £23,328 per annum
Hours: Full time
Contract Type: Fixed Term (12 months)
Location: Science and Technology Facilities Council, Rutherford Appleton Laboratory Harwell, Oxfordshire
Closing date: 20th October 2024
Interview date: December 2024/January 2025 (travel and accommodation will be reimbursed)
Start date: September 2025
Please note that we can only accept a maximum of 2 applications per candidate.
ISIS Neutron and Muon Source (ISIS)
ISIS Neutron and Muon Source produces beams of neutrons and muons that allow scientists to study materials at the atomic level using a suite of instruments, often described as 'super-microscopes'. It supports a national and international community of more than 3000 scientists who use neutrons and muons for research in physics, chemistry, materials science, geology, engineering, and biology.
The Particle Physics Department (PPD)
The Particle Physics Department builds detectors to answer fundamental questions in physics: collaborating on experiments around the world, including the Large Hadron Collider at CERN and neutrino detectors in the USA and Japan. Our physicists also analyse the data from these facilities and collaborate with researchers at various UK universities.
STFC Scientific Computing (SC)
STFC Scientific Computing is an international centre of excellence for advanced computing expertise and digital research infrastructure. We have a multidisciplinary, collaborative approach to addressing complex research and development challenges. Whether it's accelerating new drug discoveries, finding sustainable materials and new methods of tackling climate change, supporting the detection of gravitational waves or unlocking the secrets of the universe, we generate new technologies and discoveries that have real-world applications to benefit people worldwide.
The Central Laser Facility (CLF)
The Central Laser Facility (CLF) is one of the world's leading laser facilities providing scientists from the UK, Europe and around the world with an unparalleled range of state-of-the-art laser technology to carry out a broad range of pioneering experiments in physics, chemistry and biology. Our work impacts on the biggest challenges facing humanity - access to clean energy, health and wellbeing, the preservation of the environment which we all share and sustainable food production. We train people in advanced skills, drive economic innovation and encourage excellence in all that we do. We are currently on the path the building the world's most powerful laser, Vulcan 20-20 (20 Petawatts, 20 Kilojoules)
Brief overview of the scheme
STFC's incredibly diverse range of placements allow you to work alongside world leading engineers, scientists, and technicians in highly collaborative environments. Whichever you choose, you will become a critical member of the team in which you will be exposed to exciting projects and challenges from the start. You will be supported every step of the way by our dedicated Early Careers Development Team who will also ensure you benefit from a range of personal development opportunities.
STFC offers a benefits package crafted to provide an excellent work/life balance including 30 days' annual leave, 10.5 public and privilege days, Christmas closure and flexible working hours. For more information on our full list of benefits, please visit here .
About the role and a summary of key duties & responsibilities
We are looking to fill five science communication positions to play a full role in promoting STFC science to a range of audiences. You will join a departmental team that plays a major role within STFC, promoting science through a range of channels including websites, social media, video/audio/graphics, specialist and national media, events, exhibitions and education activities.
A passion for science and technology, an enjoyment of writing, a willingness to learn new things and the ability to explain sometimes complex subject matter in an engaging and understandable way to the general public is key for this role. This placement will allow you to develop your communication skills, both through written and other formats, by promoting our science to a wide range of audiences. You must be able to work well both individually and as part of a team and be interested in a wide range of scientific areas and how science impacts on society. You might be a science student wanting to switch into science communication or you might be a journalism student seeking to specialise in science.
The five positions will be based in the following departments:
- ISIS Neutron and Muon Source
- The Central Laser Facility
- STFC Scientific Computing
- Particle Physics Department
The roles for each department differ slightly, but your responsibilities will generally include:
- Researching and presenting our science through a range of written, verbal and visual channels.
- Support website and social media content creation and development.
- Developing case studies of staff and industrial work.
- Working with scientists and engineers to help deliver events.
- Supporting other communication team activities.
- Photography, videography and graphic design of promotional material.
The above responsibilities will be conducted with the support and guidance of your manager. The placement will also include opportunities to drive your own communications projects and develop new skills via guidance, training, and the attendance of conferences.
To apply for this placement, we are looking for the following:
Key - Shortlisting (S), at Interview (I) or both (S&I)
Essential:
- Currently enrolled on an undergraduate degree course and returning to university/studies to complete your undergraduate degree following the placement (S)
- Are required or have requested to take an industrial placement year (S)
- Have the right to live and work in the UK for the duration of the placement (S)
- Able to commence employment in summer 2025 (S)
- GCSE English or equivalent (S)
- Keen interest in science and science communication (S&I)
- Excellent writing, presentation and organisational skills (S&I)
- Demonstrate good team working capabilities (S&I)
- The willingness to learn new skills, both technical and non-technical (I)
- Open minded and flexible in relation to the type of work assigned to them (I)
- A-levels or equivalent in Science and English (S)
- Experience in graphic design, social media or video/audio production (S&I)
- Experience in writing for publication (S&I)
- Experience in STEM outreach to a non-scientific audience (S&I)
Part of our application process involves submitting your CV and a cover letter. Your cover letter should address your suitability for the opportunity based how you meet each essential criteria stated in this advert.
Please note that we hold the right to close this vacancy early if a sufficient number of applications have been received.
About The Science and Technology Facilities Council (STFC)
As one of Europe's largest research organisations, we ask the biggest questions in the universe to find answers that change the world around us. We seek understanding. We're proud of the impact we make. And we're committed to helping build a globally competitive, knowledge-based UK economy. Being part of all this means contributing to work that pushes boundaries and creates possibilities. You'll work with, and learn from, true experts. Whatever your role, you'll be free to question, and encouraged to share ideas. And, in a positive and supportive culture, you'll discover just what a difference you can make when you're equipped and inspired to excel.
We're a place where curious minds thrive. Not bound by profit, we explore ideas that others don't, ask questions that others won't, and discover answers that others are not equipped to find. And, alongside Mars landings and black holes, we also explore diverse, international projects in everything from science and engineering to computing and technology. Whether it's at the cutting edge or behind the scenes, our work is intellectually challenging. It's very often ground-breaking. And it's endlessly, irresistibly fascinating.
For more information about STFC please visit https://stfc.ukri.org/
You can also visit our careers site https://www.stfccareers.co.uk/
About UK Research Innovation (UKRI)
UKRI is an organisation that brings together the seven disciplinary research councils, Research England and Innovate UK. Together, we build an independent organisation with a strong voice and vision ensuring the UK maintains its world-leading position in research and innovation.
Supporting some of the world's most exciting and challenging research projects, we develop and operate some of the most remarkable scientific facilities in the world. We are pushing the frontiers of human knowledge through fundamental research and delivering benefits for UK society and the economy through world-class research, skills and business-led innovation.
More information can be found at www.ukri.org .
Choosing to come to work at UKRI means that you will have access to a whole host of benefits from a defined benefit pension scheme, excellent holiday entitlement, access to employee shopping/travel discounts and salary sacrifice cycle to work scheme. For more details, visit benefits of working for UKRI .
The role holder will be required to have the appropriate level of security screening/vetting required for the role. UKRI reserves the right to run or re-run security clearance as required during the course of employment.
How we support EDI in the workforce
At UKRI, we believe that everyone has a right to be treated with dignity and respect, and to be provided with equal opportunities to thrive and succeed in an environment that enables them to do so. We also value diversity of thought and experience within inclusive groups, organisations and the wider community. For further information, please visit 'How we support EDI in the workforce' .
Disability Confident Employer
As users of the disability confident scheme, we guarantee to interview all disabled applicants who meet the minimum criteria for the vacancy/ies. We will ensure that individuals with disabilities are provided reasonable accommodation to participate in the job application or interview process, to perform essential job functions, and to receive other benefits and privileges of employment. Please contact us to request accommodation.
How to apply
Online applications only preferred for this role. Please submit a CV and covering letter which clearly outlines how you fulfil the criteria specified along with your motivation for UKRI and the role. Ensure that the job reference number is included in the filename description of each document uploaded. Note that failure to address the above criteria or submit an application without a covering letter may result in the application not being considered. Assessment will only be based upon the content of your submitted covering letter and CV and not the 'experience' section of the application.
UKRI seeks to ensure it creates and maintains a system of openness, fairness and inclusion - a collaborative, trusted environment, which is attractive to and accessible to everyone who is interested in developing their career with us.
Additional Information
- Organisation: Science and Technology Facilities Council (STFC)
- Contract Type: Fixed Term Contract
- External Closing Date: Oct 20, 2024
- Minimum Salary: Pound Sterling (GBP) 23,328
- Hours: Full-time
Location: Didcot, GB
Posted Date: 9/30/2024
Contact Information
| Contact | Human Resources UK Research and Innovation |
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