Head of Project Science Strategy

UKRI; City of Edinburgh; On-site; GBP 75,000 - 76,000

Job description

Science and Technology Facilities Council

Salary: Band G (S2) £75,382 per annum
Hours: Full-Time (We understand the importance of work-life balance, and are happy to discuss the possibility of flexible working with applicants)
Contract Type: Open Ended
Location: Science and Technology Facilities Council, UK Astronomy Technology Centre, Edinburgh

The UK ATC is the UK’s national centre of expertise for the design and delivery of world-class astronomical instrumentation. We are involved in a wide range of instrumentation projects for current and future major ground- and space-based astronomical facilities, including ESO’s VLT and ELT, ALMA, ESA’s LISA, and the SKA.

Together, our scientists, technologists, engineers, technicians and business support team explore the unknown and turn what they find into work that changes the world around us. Whether it’s sending probes into space or finding new ways to treat cancer, everyone here plays a vital role in making a positive difference to society.

Come and discover how much you can achieve when you’re surrounded by world-leading experts, encouraged to constantly learn and empowered to explore your curiosity.

The UK Astronomy Technology Centre (UK ATC) is seeking an experienced astronomer to join our leadership team as Head of Project Science Strategy (HPSS). This critical role will ensure that the UK remains at the forefront of international astronomy through the development of world-leading astronomical instrumentation.

As HPSS, you will report to the UK ATC Director and work collaboratively with other members of the Senior Management Team to:

1. Identify and develop new strategic opportunities for science instrumentation.
2. Develop the UK ATC’s strategic roadmap to ensure alignment with both national and international research priorities, and implement UK ATC’s strategic delivery plan.

In this role, you will actively engage with the UK and international astronomical communities, forging and maintaining collaborative relationships with internal and external stakeholders, including funding bodies, to support current and future projects.

As a scientist, you will also lead and manage the UK ATC’s Project Science Group and are expected to maintain an active research programme, ideally with connection to the instrumentation projects under development at the UK ATC.

Person Specification

• A PhD in astronomy, astrophysics, or a closely related field.
• Demonstrable expertise in multi-disciplinary astronomical instrumentation, including experience leading collaborative, cross-institutional projects.
• A proven track record of leadership in research, strategic planning, or programme delivery within an academic or technology-focused environment.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability and credibility to build consensus and sustain effective partnerships.
• Ability to work with a high degree of autonomy together with the capability and flexibility to work well within a team as projects demand.
• A high-level understanding of the strategic needs and priorities of STFC, UKRI and relevant stakeholders within the field of international astronomy.

How to Apply
Please submit the following documents:

• A CV (2 pages max)
• A cover letter (2 pages max) outlining your reasons for applying, your vision for the role, and your research interests.

The UK ATC is committed to promoting diversity and equality in science and encourages applications from underrepresented groups.

For more information about STFC please visit https://stfc.ukri.org/

You can also visit our careers site https://www.stfccareers.co.uk/