17 Sep 2025
17 Sep 2025
Teddington, United Kingdom
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Data Science
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Starting from £69,560– dependant on experience
Permanent

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Principal Scientist - Biometrics

About the Role
Our world-leading Laboratory is seeking a Data Scientist with experience in Biometrics.

As a Data Scientist, you will collaborate as part of a team to develop innovative solutions to societal and National Challenges. Excitingly, this role offers scope to develop new collaborations across NPL, government, industry, and academia. You’ll enjoy developing, applying and sharing knowledge and skills with colleagues, collaborators, and the wider scientific community.

In this role you will be undertaking research in biometrics and the application of machine learning methods to specific problems, as well as general aspects of quality management, risk management, testing and assessment of machine learning algorithms and artificial intelligence (AI) systems.

You will become part of a community of Data Scientists working in a variety of projects in AI and Machine Learning, Synthetic or Simulated Data and Biometrics. There is also the opportunity to be involved in projects internally across NPL, focusing on a wide variety of possible metrology applications.
About You
Essential experience:
- A degree in Mathematics, Statistics, Computer Science, or relevant science or engineering discipline, with related post doctoral experience and extensive research track record
- Experience in the field of Biometrics, both research and operational aspects
- An extensive track record in research and the ability to drive ideas forward in a collaborative manner
- Experimental data analysis, including design of experimental trials and analysis of data from experimental trials
- Deep knowledge of methods of machine learning and deep learning and proficiency in the practical application of those methods
- Testing and assessment of machine learning algorithms and AI systems that include machine learning.
- Proficiency in programming languages such as Python or MATLAB
- Demonstrable ability in developing a technical roadmap and strategy.
- Interest and involvement in standards
- Experience of dealing with customers
- Uncertainty quantification.
  
  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. However, to work in this role in the Data Science department, you will need to have an SC clearance with no restrictions, or you must have the ability to obtain an SC 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
About Us
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. Find out more about what it is like working here - The measure of us - Overview

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 ensure we’re creating an environment where all our colleagues feel supported and welcome. More about this on 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 rewards, benefits and recognition. 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.