Location
Bristol

Hours
Full Time

Salary
£42,616 per annum

About the Role
The Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra) is the UK government department responsible for safeguarding our natural environment, supporting our world-leading food and farming industry, and sustaining a thriving rural economy. Science, analysis and data are at the heart of Defra’s work. The Science, Data & Analysis Group (SDA) provides specialist analytical, scientific, policy and systems-thinking expertise to deliver high quality, impactful analysis, assurance and insight to underpin Defra’s work and inform decision-making.

This role sits within the SDA’s Central Science Division (CSD), working on the priorities of the Chief Scientific Adviser (CSA). The CSD provides three key functions across Defra science: enabling a strong science system with clear strategy and skills; supporting priority policy areas through research, innovation and partnerships; and taking a strategic role in identifying and supporting cross-cutting and emerging scientific issues.

The Science Strategy and Professions Officer will help put science at the heart of Defra policies and champion science and scientists across the Defra Group. This dynamic role within a small team offers the opportunity to lead on discrete projects, update guidance and policies, support larger initiatives, and engage broadly with the science profession in Defra.

Successful candidates will be expected to work primarily from a UK location, with flexible working options available. The role requires basic security clearance, with potential for higher clearance depending on location. A reserve list may be held for 12 months for further appointments.

Experience
- Postgraduate science degree or equivalent professional experience in a science or engineering discipline.
- Understanding of how evidence, R&D, innovation and external expertise support policy, delivery and organisational resilience.
- Experience briefing senior leaders, influencing stakeholders and communicating complex evidence or delivery issues clearly.
- Strong organisational skills and experience delivering projects or programmes with multiple stakeholders, governance requirements and delivery milestones.
- Ability to build productive relationships within and across organisational boundaries, including with academia, research organisations, PSREs, government departments or industry.
- Ability to prioritise and align activities with wider team priorities, senior leadership expectations and future evidence needs.
- Ability to identify emerging risks, opportunities and delivery gaps and translate them into practical interventions.

About you
Dynamic, proactive and collaborative professional with strong communication and influencing skills. Able to work effectively in a small team environment and manage multiple projects. Committed to championing science and scientists within a government setting and supporting evidence-based policy making.

Qualifications
A postgraduate qualification in science or engineering or equivalent professional experience in a science or engineering discipline.