Social Science Adviser

Our mission is:

1. Science advice mechanisms that are efficient, effective, speak truth to power and are embedded irreversibly in Government systems.
2. Visible impact through both pro-active and demand-led science advice that is relevant, excellent, and delivered fit for purpose.

Further information can be found here:

https://www.gov.uk/government/organisations/government-office-for-science

We strongly believe diversity of experience, thought, perspectives, skills, and background makes us a more innovative, welcoming Department, thus making better decisions and better delivering our objectives. We are actively seeking applications from every part of the community and particularly welcome applications from candidates of any age, background, disability, or from an ethnic minority background and any other protected characteristics. This will help us move to a workforce that reflects the people we serve to deliver better policies.

We are a friendly, inclusive team and emphasise personal development. We will ensure individuals with disabilities are provided adjustments to participate in the job application and interview process. We support your wellbeing by putting flexible working at the heart of our offer.; if successful, you will be able to discuss working arrangements with your new manager.

We maintain an internal surge capability of staff who may be called at short notice to support an activation of the Scientific Advisory Group for Emergencies (SAGE). Training and support will be provided. This is an excellent opportunity to develop crisis management skills.

Please note

Former DSIT recruitment campaigns are continuing as usual, but candidates should be aware that following the Governments announcement on the changes to some civil service departments, roles will be subject to the machinery of government moves and will ultimately be in one of the new departments. We will provide more information if you are selected for a role. This work remains of high importance to the civil service, and we thank you for your continued interest.

The Government Office for Science works at the heart of Government, ensuring policies and decisions are informed by the best scientific evidence and strategic long-term thinking. It's an exciting time to join the organisation; we have outstanding and high-profile positions providing you an opportunity to inform and influence policy-making and the systems for use of science and engineering across government. If you are highly motivated and looking for your next career challenge we want to hear from you.

Our Team

The Government Office for Science (GOS) works at the heart of government to ensure policies and decisions are informed by the best scientific evidence and long-term strategic thinking. We are seeking an HEO to join the Social Science team within the wider Climate, Society and International (CSI) Deputy Directorate in GOS. We welcome a range of social and behavioural science disciplinary and methodological expertise, particularly from candidates with experience applying social and behavioural science to emergency preparedness and/or emerging technology.

The Role

This role would suit someone who can apply social and behavioural science expertise to practical government challenges. The successful candidate will be comfortable working across disciplinary, organisational and policy boundaries, translating complex evidence into clear advice, and helping colleagues understand how this expertise can support decision-making.

Key activities for the role include:

• Leading discrete projects or workstreams with a social or behavioural science focus, managing short timelines and producing clear outputs for policy or analytical customers.