NCAS Head of Observations

Department

Chemistry

Salary

£58,225 - £67,468 per year

Grade

Grade 8

Contract status

Open or fixed-term (see job details)

Hours of work

Full-time

Based at

University of York campus

Interview date

To be confirmed

Posted Date

14/09/2026

Apply by

12/10/2026

Job Reference

15343

Documents

• Job description 15343.pdf (PDF, 418.32kb)
  
  

Role Description

Department

The National Centre for Atmospheric Science (NCAS) is a world leading research centre, dedicated to the advancement of atmospheric science. We provide the UK with state-of-the-art services for observing and modelling the atmosphere, advanced ground-based observational facilities, computer modelling and support, and data facilities. NCAS is seeking a new Head of Observations, who will oversee the design, coordination, and delivery of cutting-edge measurements and research initiatives that deepen our understanding of our changing atmosphere.

The role will be based in the Wolfson Atmospheric Chemistry Laboratories, the Department of Chemistry at the University of York.

Role

NCAS is seeking an exceptional leader to guide our world-class Atmospheric Observations research and services into its next chapter. This is a rare opportunity to shape national and international scientific efforts, drive innovation in observational technologies, and lead a talented team dedicated to generating high-quality data that underpins critical environmental decisions. If you are a strategic thinker with a passion for environmental science and a commitment to excellence, we'd love to hear from you.

As Head of Atmospheric Observations, you will provide vision and leadership for a diverse portfolio that includes long-term atmospheric measurement sites, advanced gas and aerosol observations, remote-sensing facilities, and cutting-edge sensor development. You will lead and support a highly skilled community of scientists across NCAS and partner universities, ensuring the delivery of world-class data and research that underpin national capability in atmospheric science.

Skills, Experience & Qualification Needed

• Experience of managing a multi-disciplinary team and projects, including budget planning and delivery of complex technical activities, with an ability to direct NCAS Observations across a number of distributed sites.
• A track record in developing and deploying excellent atmospheric observations and an ability to deliver high quality and high value datasets.
• A PhD in a relevant field, or equivalent experience, with an excellent understanding of atmospheric observations and/or facilities management
• Knowledge of, and the ability to maintain awareness of, the latest technological and application developments in the broad fields of analytical, environmental and atmospheric observations
• Knowledge of national and international frameworks for environmental observations (e.g. AURN, WMO, ICOS, ACTRIS)
• The ability to support NCAS observations staff to develop novel data products and visualisation tools and promote their use by new user communities
  
  

Interview date: To be confirmed

For informal enquiries: please contact Professor Jacqui Hamilton at [Confidential Information]

The University strives to be diverse and inclusive – a place where we can ALL be ourselves.

We particularly encourage applications from people who identify as Black, Asian or from a Minority Ethnic background, who are underrepresented at the University.

We also encourage applications from women for senior roles.

We offer family friendly, flexible working arrangements, with forums and inclusive facilities to support our staff. #EqualityatYork

As a Disability Confident employer, we will ensure that a fair and proportionate number of disabled applicants that meet the minimum (essential) criteria for each position will be offered an interview. Read more about the University of York's commitments under the Disability Confident scheme.