Research Scientist - Physical Oceanography
National Oceanography Centre, Southampton
Permanent
Full time (37 hours per week)
£43,703 - £47,941
Who are we?
We are the National Oceanography Centre (NOC) - the UK’s leading institution for integrated coastal and deep ocean research. Through our ground-breaking research, collaboration, and game-changing innovation we work to gain a deeper understanding of our ocean, helping every living thing on our planet flourish.
We are made up of a dynamic and vibrant community focused on solving challenging long-term marine science problems, underpinning international and UK public policy, business and societal outcomes.
The ocean has the potential to provide the solutions to so many of the social, economic and environmental challenges we face worldwide. To truly harness the value of the ocean, we put ocean research, science and discovery at the heart of our culture.
Join us in shaping the future of oceanographic research and contribute your unique perspective to our organisation.
About the role
The National Oceanography Centre (NOC) is seeking a talented and motivated Physical Oceanographer to join its world-leading research programmes in ocean circulation and climate.
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 as well as presenting and publishing results with a focus on observational analysis.
About you
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 2 expeditions a year) is essential, along with a commitment to maintaining high standards of data quality, safety, and scientific integrity.
Why NOC?
We offer a generous set of benefits, including:
- 30 days contractual annual leave, plus 3.5 extra closure days and bank holidays
- a 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
- a 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
- a Cycle2Work scheme allowing employees to acquire bikes and accessories
- a great working environment with a number of 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 for most positions staff can work from home up to 2 days per week. If you are interested in this position, but require a more flexible working arrangement, please contact the recruitment team using the contact details below.
Submitting an application
Please submit an up-to-date CV and cover letter highlighting your relevant experience and why you are interested in the position. Applications submitted without a cover letter may not be considered. If you are unable to apply online, please contact the NOC recruitment team at [email protected] / 07955 851648.
Before submitting your application please ensure you have reviewed the attached job description and person specification.
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.
Date advert posted: 1 June 2026.
Closing date: 29 June 2026. This vacancy may close earlier depending on the number of applicants.
Please note we are not accepting applications via recruitment agencies for this position.
