Science Communications Summer Placement Didcot, England
Job description
Hours: Full time
Contract Type: Fixed Term
Location: Science and Technology Facilities Council, Rutherford Appleton Laboratory Harwell, Oxfordshire
ISIS Neutron and Muon Source is a state-of-the-art research centre that generates beams of neutrons and muons for research in physics, chemistry, materials science, geology, engineering, and biology. ISIS supports an international community of more than 3000 scientists, who visit the facility to make use of the unique and advanced instrumentation for their research.
We are looking for two students with a passion for science and the enthusiasm to engage a wide range of audiences on the important contributions of large-scale research facilities. Based at the Rutherford Appleton Laboratory, the students will have the opportunity to engage directly with staff and users to learn about, and disseminate the broad range of science that takes place at ISIS. The role would be ideal for students who enjoy using different types of media to communicate technical concepts to non-expert audiences. The students must be able to work well on their own and as part of a team, and be interested in a wide range of scientific areas and their impacts on society.
Summary of Key Duties and Responsibilities
- Speaking with staff and users to collect information about the technical capabilities and key research outputs of the instruments at ISIS.
- Writing clear, consistent and engaging content on the instruments at ISIS.
- Designing large- and small-scale print materials and digital communications to present the information collected about ISIS instruments.
In order to apply for the role we are looking for the following:
Essential
- Are in full-time education at university and returning to university/studies following the placement
- The right to live and work in the UK for the duration of the placement
- Strong communication skills
- Experience of producing physical and/or digital communication materials
- The willingness to learn new skills, both technical and non-technical
Desirable:
- Experience in graphic design, or video/audio production
- Experience of managing a project
Part of our application process involves submitting your CV and a cover letter. Your cover letter should address your suitability for the opportunity based how you meet each essential criteria stated in this advert.
We would recommend you to submit your application as soon as possible as we reserve the right to close this vacancy once we have received sufficient applications.
- Please note, we can only accept a maximum of 2 applications per candidate.
About The Science and Technology Facilities Council (STFC)
As one of Europe’s largest research organisations, we ask the biggest questions in the universe to find answers that change the world around us. We seek understanding. We’re proud of the impact we make. And we’re committed to helping build a globally competitive, knowledge-based UK economy. Being part of all this means contributing to work that pushes boundaries and creates possibilities. You’ll work with, and learn from, true experts. Whatever your role, you’ll be free to question, and encouraged to share ideas. And, in a positive and supportive culture, you’ll discover just what a difference you can make when you’re equipped and inspired to excel.
We’re a place where curious minds thrive. Not bound by profit, we explore ideas that others don’t, ask questions that others won’t, and discover answers that others are not equipped to find. And, alongside Mars landings and black holes, we also explore diverse, international projects in everything from science and engineering to computing and technology. Whether it’s at the cutting edge or behind the scenes, our work is intellectually challenging. It’s very often ground-breaking. And it’s endlessly, irresistibly fascinating.
For more information about STFC please visit https://stfc.ukri.org/
You can also visit our careers site https://www.stfccareers.co.uk/
About UK Research Innovation (UKRI)
UKRI is an organisation that brings together the seven disciplinary research councils, Research England and Innovate UK. Together, we build an independent organisation with a strong voice and vision ensuring the UK maintains its world-leading position in research and innovation.
Supporting some of the world’s most exciting and challenging research projects, we develop and operate some of the most remarkable scientific facilities in the world. We are pushing the frontiers of human knowledge through fundamental research and delivering benefits for UK society and the economy through world-class research, skills and business-led innovation.
More information can be found at www.ukri.org.
Choosing to come to work at UKRI means that you will have access to a whole host of benefits from a defined benefit pension scheme, excellent holiday entitlement, access to employee shopping/travel discounts and salary sacrifice cycle to work scheme. For more details, visit benefits of working for UKRI.
How we support EDI in the workforce
At UKRI, we believe that everyone has a right to be treated with dignity and respect, and to be provided with equal opportunities to thrive and succeed in an environment that enables them to do so. We also value diversity of thought and experience within inclusive groups, organisations and the wider community. For further information, please visit ‘How we support EDI in the workforce’.
Disability Confident Employer
As users of the disability confident scheme, we guarantee to interview all disabled applicants who meet the minimum criteria for the vacancy/ies. We will ensure that individuals with disabilities are provided reasonable accommodation to participate in the job application or interview process, to perform essential job functions, and to receive other benefits and privileges of employment. Please contact us to request accommodation.
How to apply
Online applications only preferred for this role. Please submit a CV and covering letter which clearly outlines how you fulfil the criteria specified along with your motivation for UKRI and the role. Ensure that the job reference number is included in the filename description of each document uploaded. Note that failure to address the above criteria or submit an application without a covering letter may result in the application not being considered. Assessment will only be based upon the content of your submitted covering letter and CV and not the ‘experience’ section of the application.
UKRI seeks to ensure it creates and maintains a system of openness, fairness and inclusion – a collaborative, trusted environment, which is attractive to and accessible to everyone who is interested in developing their career with us.
