Scientist - Radiation Biology

About the Role

We are looking for a talented and motivated Scientist to join the Radiation Biology Programme within NPL’s Radiotherapy and Radiation Dosimetry Group. This is a permanent position offering the opportunity to contribute to and shape a diverse portfolio of radiation biology projects that support both scientific excellence and real-world impact. The successful candidate will play a leading role in selected research activities while working across a broad range of programmes and collaborations spanning research, industry and healthcare.

At NPL, our radiation biology research is underpinned by metrology. We focus on improving the quality, robustness and standardisation of measurements to increase confidence in radio-biological data and support better decision-making across the research and clinical communities. Alongside this, we are working to improve our mechanistic understanding of radiation response through the development and application of new and more rigorous and reproducible radiobiological methodologies. The role offers a unique opportunity to work at the interface between measurement science, biology and healthcare. Our work is closely connected to academic researchers, industrial partners, healthcare providers, regulators and government organisations. As a result, the successful candidate will see the direct impact of their work in helping to address real-world challenges and improve outcomes across the radiation sciences community.

A key part of the role will involve engaging with a broad range of stakeholders to understand their needs and translate these into innovative metrological solutions. You will work closely with government bodies, regulatory organisations, clinical teams, industrial partners and academic institutions to ensure that NPL research delivers meaningful and lasting benefit.

About You

We are looking for someone who is curious, adaptable and enthusiastic about learning. Experience in radiation physics/biology would be advantageous but is not essential. More important is a strong scientific background, a proactive and positive attitude and the ability to quickly develop expertise in new areas. You should enjoy working across a variety of activities and be motivated by the opportunity to tackle complex scientific challenges in a collaborative environment.

• Be a highly motivated scientist with a degree (or equivalent qualification) in a relevant scientific discipline such as physics, biology, biomedical sciences or a related field
• Have a proactive, can-do attitude and a willingness to take ownership of projects and activities.
• Be a quick learner who is comfortable developing knowledge in new scientific areas.
• Enjoy working across a varied portfolio of research, development and stakeholder engagement activities.
• Be an effective communicator who can build relationships with colleagues, collaborators and external stakeholders.
• Be motivated by delivering impact and contributing to improvements in research quality, reproducibility and clinical outcomes.

Why join NPL?
Joining NPL means becoming part of a world-leading measurement science organisation where your work will have tangible impact across research, healthcare, industry and government. You will have the opportunity to collaborate with leading experts, help establish best practice and standards and contribute to advances that improve confidence in radiation science and its applications. This is an exciting opportunity for an individual who wants to work at the forefront of radiation biology while helping to deliver measurement solutions that benefit the wider scientific and clinical communities.

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. You will be asked about this throughout the recruitment process. To work at NPL, you will need to obtain BPSS security 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.

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.