Job Description The Head of Research leads the scientific research that takes place in the Chief Scientist’s Group. They provide professional science advice and maintain standards of science and research across the Environment Agency. Their relationships with the science community in government and beyond further the science of the organisation. Lead, plan and monitor the strategic direction and delivery of around £7m p.a. Research in support of the corporate strategy and outcomes. They must adapt to and support the changing needs of research customers and explore new ways of delivering our research needs through others. Lead, develop and motivate their teams to deliver and communicate results on time, to required quality standards and cost, supporting staff development and Health, Safety and Wellbeing. They lead by example, conducting their own research as part of internal and collaborative projects to maintain scientific understanding and credibility. Influence and engage in external science programmes to optimise the benefits for the Environment Agency, advising the Chief Scientist on funding applications to Research Councils. Provide scientific advice for emergencies and to senior managers, with particular responsibility for radioactive incident response. Represent the Chief Scientist at SAGE if necessary. Maintain scientific quality throughout the organisation, including planning the right work, approving large projects and projects initiated by direct reports, and approving the final summaries of projects, including Chemicals Analysis Unit reports that go to HSE as part of our contribution to the UK Chemicals Agency. Responding to incidents is a central part of what we do. You will be required to have an incident role and make yourself available to respond to incidents or provide business continuity support during an incident. This may attract an additional payment and full training and alternative working arrangements will be available to support you with your incident role. The team You will be a part of the Chief Scientist’s Group leadership team alongside two other Deputy Directors. You will lead a team of researchers and science managers and communicators within the Chief Scientist’s Group. The post currently has 75 people within its organisational structure, with a number of senior scientists as direct reports leading research themes, and a small “hub” delivering programme planning and finance, and supporting science communication and partnership working. Experience/skills Required Doctorate or equivalent research-based post-graduate qualification or professional standing is required for external credibility, in a science subject related to the work of the Environment Agency. Proven experience of inclusive leadership in a technical or scientific environment, delegating management through direct reports and managing significant budgets. The ability to understand, analyse and derive insight from scientific based information to enable decision making. Track record of influencing partners and others to maximise the leverage we can obtain in the wider science world. Experience of external dissemination of compelling science and evidence. Recent experience of working in a research and development environment. Knowledge of the science done by the Environment Agency would be advantageous. Key skills include leadership, communication, building and sustaining relationships, programme/financial management and delivering results through others Contact and additional information Extensive national travel required. Some international travel is likely For further information please contact: Dr Robert Bradburne - ChiefScientistPA@environment-agency.gov.uk Candidate Assessments will take place in person at 2 Marsham Street, London on 24th June 2025. Further details will be provided to shortlisted candidates. If you are applying from the Civil Service please note that the Environment Agency is not a part of HM Civil Service and you would not be a Crown Servant in the event of being appointed. Therefore, you will not be eligible for continuous service. For applicants who currently work in local government or other bodies listed in the Redundancy Payments (Continuity of Employment in Local Government etc) (Modification) Order 1999, you may be eligible for continuous service for the purpose of calculating any future redundancy payment. If you are unsure of your status then you should contact your own HR Team. We are fully committed to having a diverse and inclusive workforce to reflect the communities we serve. We welcome flexible working patterns for all our vacancies, including job share, so please include clearly any information regarding your preferred working arrangements on your application. We also have a Guaranteed Interview Policy to support those with a disability who are seeking employment. We have committed to guaranteeing an interview to anyone with a disability whose application meets the minimum criteria for the post. The Environment Agency, as a Non-Departmental Public Body, is committed to providing value for money and utilises Central Government frameworks and contracts for all external recruitment needs. For this reason, we are unable to engage with the market directly through post, email or phone calls . Should you wish to become a support supplier on one of these frameworks or contracts please visit https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/become-a-crown-commercial-service-supplier/becoming-a-supplier-through-the-crown-commercial-service-what-you-need-to-know for more information.. Location : England, United Kingdom