Join to apply for the Applied Scientist - Habitat Mapping role at National Oceanography Centre

National Oceanography Centre, Southampton

Permanent

Full time (37 hours per week)

Overview

The National Oceanography Centre (NOC) is the UK’s leading institution for integrated coastal and deep ocean research. We are a dynamic and vibrant community focused on solving challenging marine science problems and underpinning international and UK public policy, business and societal outcomes. We seek to shape the future of oceanography by placing ocean research, science and discovery at the heart of our culture.

About the role

NOC is on an ambitious journey to become the world’s most innovative ocean science research organisation. Our Applied Science team sits at the intersection between marine business and ocean research, building partnerships and delivering impactful commercial projects. We are seeking a specialist with knowledge and expertise in marine habitat mapping to join our Applied Science team to develop and deliver commercial products and services for industry, government, and NGO clients. This role is based in NOC Innovations (NOCi), a commercial subsidiary of the National Oceanography Centre. The NOCi team diversifies income streams and provides research-driven solutions aligned with the NOC’s mission and goals.

You will have the opportunity to develop this topic within the Applied team, working with other group members and our Commercial Development Managers to identify external stakeholders, map their needs to NOC capabilities and design commercial products and services. This includes identifying new business opportunities, preparing proposals and tenders, and responding to client requests. You will work with clients to understand objectives and build projects, producing evidence-based insights for both the client and NOC’s research ambitions. Findings will be delivered in detailed reports and presentations, with opportunities to present at industry or scientific conferences and publish in peer-reviewed journals. Some UK and overseas travel will be expected.

This is a dynamic role that suits someone who can work independently and as part of a team, offering a unique opportunity to collaborate with NOC scientists and key players in the marine business sector.

About you

We’re looking for someone passionate about the ocean who understands the importance of engaging with industry to deliver a better future for our blue planet. You will have experience with marine industries, understand their drivers and ways of working, and possess a background in marine habitat mapping. A track record in this area—whether from a commercial service provider, consultancy, research institute, or equivalent—would be expected. Experience with business development, implementing new ideas and solutions, and familiarity with commercial processes within marine industries would be advantageous, as would a strong academic background.

Strong project management skills, the ability to manage collaborative projects with well-defined deliverables, and the capability to build relationships with both commercial clients and academic stakeholders are essential. You should be environmentally aware, scientifically curious, commercially astute, and ideally have a network of relevant contacts. Excellent communication skills, the ability to work independently and in a team, and the capacity to manage multiple priorities are important.

Why NOC?

We offer a generous set of benefits, including:

• 30 days contractual annual leave, plus 3.5 extra closure days and bank holidays
• Access to our Employee Assistance Programme, offering free and anonymous support on mental, physical, emotional, health and financial issues
• Access to a flexible benefits portal offering online discounts, cashback and eGift cards
• A Cycle2Work scheme allowing employees to acquire bikes and accessories
• A great working environment with social events, including summer and Christmas celebrations
• We are proud to be a Living Wage Employer

Location

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 split time between home and the office. If you need a more flexible arrangement, please contact the recruitment team.

We can support visa applications where required and may offer financial support for applicants who need to relocate.

Submitting an application

Please click ‘Apply for this job’ and submit an up-to-date CV and cover letter. If you are unable to apply online, please contact the NOC recruitment team at careers@noc.ac.uk / 07955 851648. Before submitting your application please review the attached job description and person specification.

We are committed to fostering diversity and inclusion in our workplace. Qualified candidates from all backgrounds are encouraged to apply, and 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 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. NOC is an Investors in People organisation.

Date advert posted: 20 August 2025.

Closing date: 17 September 2025. This vacancy may close earlier depending on the number of applicants.

Please note we are not accepting applications via recruitment agencies for this position.

Seniority level

• Mid-Senior level

Employment type

• Full-time

Job function

• Science

Industries

• Research Services

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