Deputy Chief Scientific Adviser (CSA) and Deputy Director of Health Security

About us

The Department of Health & Social Care supports ministers in leading the nation’s health and social care to help people live more independent, healthier lives for longer. Our purpose is to lead, shape and fund health and care in England, making sure people have the support and treatment they need, with the compassion, respect and dignity they deserve. Join us, and you’ll get a chance to impact thousands of lives across the country.

Your work with us

This is a rare opportunity to take on a high-profile scientific leadership role that sits at the heart of health and government decision-making. As Deputy Chief Scientific Adviser, you’ll support the CSA in shaping DHSC’s scientific priorities, strengthening the department’s research capability, and contributing to cross-government science and technology strategy. With a broad remit that spans both immediate policy needs and long-term strategic planning, you’ll ensure DHSC’s scientific activity is robust, future-focused and aligned to the needs of the health and care system. You will also act as Head of the Science and Engineering Profession in DHSC, helping to maintain a strong, skilled and confident scientific workforce.

Alongside this, you’ll serve as a Deputy Director within Science, Research and Evidence (SRE), leading significant areas of the NIHR portfolio. These include health protection research – covering environmental hazards, infectious diseases, climate and health, and pandemic preparedness – as well as global health research and innovation programmes. Your work will involve coordinating research priorities across government, guiding investment in emerging technologies, and ensuring that NIHR programmes deliver value for money and real-world impact. You’ll also provide strategic oversight of ODA-funded programmes and help shape NIHR’s response to health and security challenges at home and internationally.

You’ll be part of the SRE Senior Management Team and will work closely with colleagues across DHSC, UKHSA, NHSE, UKRI and other departments. Whether representing the department in cross-government meetings, supporting ministerial priorities, or leading the DCSA Branch, you’ll bring thoughtful leadership, strong scientific judgement and a collaborative approach.

Who we’re looking for

You’ll bring a strong scientific foundation to the role, backed by a PhD in health or biomedical sciences and experience either conducting research or directing research funding. That background means you understand the real-world impact health research has on improving outcomes and driving economic growth, and you’re confident engaging with senior scientific and policy stakeholders as a result. You’ll be agile in your thinking, able to pick up new concepts quickly, and comfortable bringing the right people together to shape clear, evidence-based decisions.

As a leader, you’ll be inclusive, calm under pressure and skilled at managing competing priorities in fast-moving and often sensitive environments. You’ll motivate teams to deliver, support colleagues’ development and maintain strong working relationships at all levels. With highly developed communication, negotiation and networking abilities – and ideally a respected domestic or international scientific reputation – you’ll bring the credibility, adaptability and collaborative approach needed to thrive in a role that spans science, strategy and government.

The benefits you’ll receive

Join us, and you’ll get a comprehensive Civil Service package designed to support your career, wellbeing and work–life balance. This includes generous annual leave, a highly competitive pension scheme, flexible working options and enhanced maternity, paternity and parental support. You’ll also have access to strong staff networks, wellbeing initiatives, professional development opportunities and, where available, onsite facilities such as fitness centres and canteens.

We value diversity and inclusion and actively encourage and welcome applications from everyone, including those who are underrepresented in our workforce. We promote equality of opportunity in all aspects of employment and a working environment free from discrimination, harassment, bullying and victimisation.

Closing date: 4 January 2026.