The Department for Energy Security and Net Zero (DESNZ) plays a leading role in delivering the UK's ambitions to become a clean energy superpower and to reach net zero emissions. DESNZ is central to the UK's response to climate change, the transformation of our energy systems, and ensuring long-term energy security. The Department is mission-led, defined by its commitment to excellence, inclusion and innovation.
Job description
As the Department continues to deliver against this ambitious agenda, it is seeking to appoint a new Chief Scientific Adviser (CSA). This is a vital leadership role at the heart of Government science and policy. Reporting directly to the Permanent Secretary and sitting on both the Departmental Board and Executive Committee, the CSA provides independent and impartial scientific and engineering advice to Ministers and senior leaders across DESNZ's full portfolio. The CSA ensures that science and evidence are embedded across the Department's strategy, operations and culture, supporting the delivery of the Clean Energy Superpower Mission. The role also involves direct access to Ministers, representing the Department publicly on matters of scientific evidence, and contributing to major cross-Government science and technology policy.
Person specification
The CSA will be a figure of national and international standing in science or engineering, with a track record of distinction through peer-reviewed publication or equivalent professional achievement. The successful candidate will bring experience of providing trusted advice to senior decision-makers, ideally in complex, high-profile or politically sensitive environments. They will have outstanding communication skills, the ability to operate with authority and credibility at the highest levels, and a strong personal commitment to evidence-based policymaking. Strategic vision, sound judgement and an appetite for innovation will also be essential.
Alongside your salary of £149,000, Department for Energy Security & Net Zero contributes £43,165 towards you being a member of the Civil Service Defined Benefit Pension scheme. Find out what benefits a Civil Service Pension provides.
nationals of the EU, Switzerland, Norway, Iceland or Liechtenstein and family members of those nationalities who have made a valid application for settled or pre-settled status under the European Union Settlement Scheme (EUSS)
individuals with limited leave to remain or indefinite leave to remain who were eligible to apply for EUSS on or before 31 December 2020
Turkish nationals, and certain family members of Turkish nationals, who have accrued the right to work in the Civil Service
The Civil Service embraces diversity and promotes equal opportunities. As such, we run a Disability Confident Scheme (DCS) for candidates with disabilities who meet the minimum selection criteria.
The Civil Service also offers a Redeployment Interview Scheme to civil servants who are at risk of redundancy, and who meet the minimum requirements for the advertised vacancy.
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