Science Communication Industrial Placement

ISIS Neutron and Muon Source (ISIS)

ISIS Neutron and Muon Source produces beams of neutrons and muons that allow scientists to study materials at the atomic level using a suite of instruments, often described as ‘super-microscopes’. It supports a national and international community of more than 3000 scientists who use neutrons and muons for research in physics, chemistry, materials science, geology, engineering, and biology.

The Particle Physics Department (PPD)

The Particle Physics Department builds detectors to answer fundamental questions in physics: collaborating on experiments around the world, including the Large Hadron Collider at CERN and neutrino detectors in the USA and Japan. Our physicists also analyse the data from these facilities and collaborate with researchers at various UK universities.

STFC Scientific Computing (SC)

STFC Scientific Computing is an international centre of excellence for advanced computing expertise and digital research infrastructure. We have a multidisciplinary, collaborative approach to addressing complex research and development challenges. Whether it’s accelerating new drug discoveries, finding sustainable materials and new methods of tackling climate change, supporting the detection of gravitational waves or unlocking the secrets of the universe, we generate new technologies and discoveries that have real-world applications to benefit people worldwide.

The Central Laser Facility (CLF)

The Central Laser Facility (CLF) is one of the world’s leading laser facilities providing scientists from the UK, Europe and around the world with an unparalleled range of state-of-the-art laser technology to carry out a broad range of pioneering experiments in physics, chemistry and biology. Our work impacts on the biggest challenges facing humanity – access to clean energy, health and wellbeing, the preservation of the environment which we all share and sustainable food production. We train people in advanced skills, drive economic innovation and encourage excellence in all that we do. We are currently on the path the building the world’s most powerful laser, Vulcan 20-20 (20 Petawatts, 20 Kilojoules)

Brief overview of the scheme

STFC’s incredibly diverse range of placements allow you to work alongside world leading engineers, scientists, and technicians in highly collaborative environments. Whichever you choose, you will become a critical member of the team in which you will be exposed to exciting projects and challenges from the start. You will be supported every step of the way by our dedicated Early Careers Development Team who will also ensure you benefit from a range of personal development opportunities.

About the role and a summary of key duties & responsibilities

We are looking to fill five science communication positions to play a full role in promoting STFC science to a range of audiences. You will join a departmental team that plays a major role within STFC, promoting science through a range of channels including websites, social media, video/audio/graphics, specialist and national media, events, exhibitions and education activities.

A passion for science and technology, an enjoyment of writing, a willingness to learn new things and the ability to explain sometimes complex subject matter in an engaging and understandable way to the general public is key for this role. This placement will allow you to develop your communication skills, both through written and other formats, by promoting our science to a wide range of audiences. You must be able to work well both individually and as part of a team and be interested in a wide range of scientific areas and how science impacts on society. You might be a science student wanting to switch into science communication or you might be a journalism student seeking to specialise in science.

The five positions will be based in the following departments:

• ISIS Neutron and Muon Source
• The Central Laser Facility
• STFC Scientific Computing
• Particle Physics Department

The roles for each department differ slightly, but your responsibilities will generally include:

• Researching and presenting our science through a range of written, verbal and visual channels.
• Support website and social media content creation and development.
• Developing case studies of staff and industrial work.
• Working with scientists and engineers to help deliver events.
• Supporting other communication team activities.
• Photography, videography and graphic design of promotional material.

The above responsibilities will be conducted with the support and guidance of your manager. The placement will also include opportunities to drive your own communications projects and develop new skills via guidance, training, and the attendance of conferences.

To apply for this placement, we are looking for the following:

Key - Shortlisting (S), at Interview (I) or both (S&I)

Essential:

• Currently enrolled on an undergraduate degree course and returning to university/studies to complete your undergraduate degree following the placement (S)
• Are required or have requested to take an industrial placement year (S)
• Have the right to live and work in the UK for the duration of the placement (S)
• Able to commence employment in summer 2025 (S)
• GCSE English or equivalent (S)
• Keen interest in science and science communication (S&I)
• Excellent writing, presentation and organisational skills (S&I)
• Demonstrate good team working capabilities (S&I)
• The willingness to learn new skills, both technical and non-technical (I)
• Open minded and adaptable in relation to the type of work assigned to them (I)

Desirable:

• A-levels or equivalent in Science and English (S)
• Experience in graphic design, social media or video/audio production (S&I)
• Experience in writing for publication (S&I)
• Experience in STEM outreach to a non-scientific audience (S&I)

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.

Please note that we hold the right to close this vacancy early if a sufficient number of applications have been received.