NPL is the UK’s National Metrology Institute. Our role is to research, create and deliver the measurement infrastructure that underpins the UK’s prosperity and quality of life across many fields of industry. 

We are seeking an experienced Senior Scientist to join our team in Teddington. The NPL Optical Radiation Metrology Group spearheads global initiatives to improve the quality and reliability of measurement data for Earth observation and climate monitoring. Additionally, we provide precise and reliable SI-traceable data to industries where understanding optical radiometric quantities is crucial. 

In the field of earth observation, precise measurements of optical quantities play a key role in collecting reliable data. These measurements help us continuously improve our understanding of climate change, track environmental shifts, and inform our assessment of the overall health of our planet. Our group has expertise in absolute radiometry based around low-temperature physics and cryogenic radiometry, a foundational discipline that ensures SI-traceable calibration of optical sensors with utmost accuracy and precision. Our active research programme aims to complement our knowledge in these areas through the development of ambient-temperature absolute radiometry supporting our work in primary spectral responsivity. Additionally, we remain committed to providing commercial services to industries, granting them access to our specialised knowledge. 

We are now looking for a highly experienced scientist to contribute to the scientific leadership of the group to help our scientists to achieve maximum impact for the earth observation and climate monitoring industries. This role will include delivery of impactful, high-quality research and commercial services to agreed time, cost and quality. 

This role is offered for a fixed two-year term in either a full-time or flexible working pattern. We work in a hybrid way, with a mix of remote and office working. 

You will be a highly experienced scientist with good track record (a minimum of 5 years) of working at a National Metrology Institute (NMI) in the following optical radiation metrology areas: low temperature physics and cryogenic radiometry, predictable quantum efficiency detectors, absolute radiometry and primary spectral responsivity. 

A key role will be to provide scientific leadership to the team working in these areas, but sharing of knowledge across other aspects of the group’s work would be of great value too. You will be comfortable leading aspects of the group’s laboratory-based work, where you will ensure use of best practice in scientific method, quality, and health and safety. You must be at ease working with a multidisciplinary team with diverse backgrounds. 

This role requires a relevant academic qualification to at least degree level, ideally Masters or PhD in an Engineering or Science subject. 

The Group works extensively with the Earth Observation and Climate Monitoring community as well as industries where absolute optical radiometry is critical. It is important that you demonstrate experience in scoping and delivering projects within or in collaboration with industrial companies, academic organisations, research bodies, and national measurement institutes and can discuss the impact of your work. 

In addition to the above technical skills, essential skills include: 

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.

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.