Research Scientist - Physical Oceanography

Job Details

Job Reference: NOC
12169

Location:

Southampton

Salary: £43,703 - £47,941

Closing Date: 29 June 2026

Position:
Physical Oceanography Research Scientist

Employment type:

Permanent, Full time (37 hours per week)

The National Oceanography Centre (NOC) is the UK’s leading institution for integrated coastal and deep ocean research. Through our ground‑breaking research, collaboration, and innovation we work to gain a deeper understanding of our ocean, helping every living thing on our planet flourish.

You will contribute to the delivery of major observational programmes, including RAPID AMOC measurements at 26°N, Argo, and GO‑SHIP hydrographic surveys. The role is for a scientist who contributes to the collection and analysis of high‑quality, long‑term datasets that underpin climate science and environmental policy. You will also be responsible for undertaking scientific research, presenting and publishing results with a focus on observational analysis.

You are a motivated and practically minded physical oceanographer with a strong interest in ocean circulation and sustained observing systems. You enjoy working at sea and are confident operating in a variety of environments, bringing a proactive and solution‑focused approach to fieldwork. You have experience in collecting and handling oceanographic data, and a solid understanding of the principles underpinning physical ocean measurements.

You work well as part of a multidisciplinary team, communicating effectively with scientists, engineers and technicians to deliver data sets and contribute to journal publications. You are organised, adaptable, and able to balance operational responsibilities at sea with post‑cruise data processing and analysis. A willingness to spend extended periods offshore (up to two expeditions a year) is essential, along with a commitment to maintaining high standards of data quality, safety and scientific integrity.

• 30 days contractual annual leave, plus 3.5 extra closure days and bank holidays
• 10% employer contribution pension scheme (with a 15% NI saving on employee contributions made above 5%, if in the salary sacrifice scheme)
• Death in Service (3 times annual salary) provided by Aviva from day one of employment, plus access to a range of other Aviva wellbeing services
• Financial support for relocation
• Salary sacrifice scheme for electric / hybrid vehicles (qualifying period applies)
• Access to our Employee Assistance Programme, offering free and confidential support on mental, physical, emotional, health and financial issues
• Access to a flexible benefits portal offering online discounts, cashback and eGift cards
• Cycle2
  
  Work scheme allowing employees to acquire bikes and accessories
• A great working environment with a number of social events, including summer and Christmas celebrations
• Living Wage Employer status

This position will be based in Southampton. The centre is well connected by public transport and has ample cycle parking in addition to free onsite car‑parking with over 40 EV charging points.

We have a hybrid working approach where staff can work from home up to two days per week. If you require a more flexible working arrangement, please contact the recruitment team.

Please submit an up‑to‑date CV and a cover letter highlighting your relevant experience and why you are interested in the position. Applications without a cover letter may not be considered.

We are committed to fostering diversity and inclusion in our workplace. We actively encourage qualified candidates from all backgrounds to apply for this position, as we strive to create a supportive and equitable environment where all voices are valued and heard. Those seeking employment at NOC are considered solely on their qualifications, skills and experience, without regard to gender, gender identity, age, race, religion, disability, sex, sexual orientation, relationship status, family status (including pregnancy / maternity leave) or any other protected characteristic.

There is a guaranteed interview scheme for candidates who meet the minimum criteria of the position and declare a disability.