ROE Public Engagement Manager

UK Astronomy Centre, Edinburgh

About us

The Science and Technology Facilities Council (STFC) is a partner organisation within UK Research and Innovation (UKRI). UKRI is a new entity that brings together nine partners to create an independent organisation with a strong voice for research and innovation, and a vision to ensure the UK maintains its world-leading position in research and innovation. 

About the role

The UK Astronomy Technology Centre is an international leader in the development of astronomy technology and astronomical research and is based on STFC’s the Royal Observatory Edinburgh (ROE) site. We have leading roles in building the world’s largest astronomical observatories, including the James Webb Space Telescope (Webb) and the Extremely Large Telescope (ELT). We are strongly committed to engaging both the public and schools with our exciting work.

The Royal Observatory Edinburgh Visitor Centre (VC) is the local part of the STFC National Laboratories Public Engagement team. The ROE site also hosts the Institute for Astronomy of the University of Edinburgh. The main focus of the Visitor Centre activities is the excellent astronomical research and astronomy instrumentation programmes that are carried out at the ROE. The VC delivers a highly regarded vibrant programme of public and schools’ activities including continuing professional development for teachers. The programme is delivered with the support of the UKATC and University of Edinburgh students and staff.

We are seeking an ambitious public engagement manager to lead our small PE team. The programme is primarily local with some national activity, and a strong focus on improving engagement with the most deprived communities and involving our engineers and scientists more closely with the programme. Previously, the programme comprised mainly face to face activities at the ROE Visitor Centre and off-site. Under COVID, we have successfully moved to an online programme. 

Key duties include:

• People management: manage the ROE PE team which typically includes 4-6 people in a variety of roles, including direct line management of several staff.
• External relationships: develop and manage external relationships with key stakeholders such as SSERC, Institute of Physics Scotland and the National Museums of Scotland, delegating to team members as appropriate.
• Internal relationships: develop and manage relationships at the Royal Observatory Edinburgh site, building working relationships with the staff of the UK ATC and If and A, and knowledge of their work.
• Ensure the PE programme is based around the highlights of the observatory science and technology. Develop and support an overall approach to involving ROE staff and students in the PE programme.
• Budget management.
• Fulfil all SHE responsibilities as line manager and programme manager including Visitor Centre day-day operations.

Please visit our website for the full description, including more information on the centre, role and requirements. 

About you

It is essential that you can demonstrate experience of programming, development, delivery and evaluation of STEM public engagement with schools and public with knowledge of public engagement methodologies and issues, including science capital. Additionally, you must also have experience of managing small projects and budgets. You will be a self-starter with the ability to lead and work with others.

What we offer

As part of UK Research and Innovation, STFC offers a benefits package that includes 30 days annual leave, 10.5 public and privilege days, Christmas shut down, an excellent defined-benefit pension scheme, and flexible working options that support a good work-life balance. Within this post there will be opportunities for professional development courses, both through STFC and support of other training that will help your career development

How to apply

Applicants are required to include a cover letter outlining their suitability for this role.

Applications are handled by UK Shared Business Services, to apply please click the apply button. Applicants who are unable to apply online should contact us by telephone on +44 (0)1793 867000.

The closing date for applications is 8 February 2021.