The Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) is recruiting a Deputy Chief Scientific Adviser to lead its Science Cell and make sure ministers and senior officials get fast, authoritative science advice. The post, based in East Kilbride, was added to the government’s hiring page for senior scientific experts on 11 November 2026, and carries a salary of £86,000.

As the Chief Scientific Adviser’s principal deputy, the successful candidate will shape the FCDO’s strategic scientific direction and strengthen the systems through which evidence informs policy, diplomacy and programming. The role also covers scientific preparedness for emergencies, including natural disasters, health threats and chemical, biological, radiological and nuclear risks.

Leading the Science Cell

The Deputy Chief Scientific Adviser will lead a team of 20 staff and oversee around 300 science professionals across the department. The postholder will also oversee the FCDO’s contribution to the Government Science and Engineering profession, setting professional standards and developing capability, and will provide technical oversight of the department’s Senior Research Fellows.

Applicants need a PhD or a Masters degree, or equivalent standing through senior scientific leadership, plus deep expertise in one of the FCDO’s priority areas, which include climate, nature, energy, food security, engineering-biology, geopolitics, humanitarian work, migration, national security and artificial intelligence. The FCDO will hold a candidate engagement call on Monday 23 November from 3pm to 4pm for anyone considering applying. Applications are made through Civil Service Jobs, via the advert for the East Kilbride post, and candidates should check the advert for the closing date before applying.