GOS – Working with government: Opportunities for scientists and engineers

Welcome, scientists and engineers interested in developing their career through policy, engagement, secondments or working for the Civil Service.

As a scientist or engineer, your expertise can shape national priorities and improve public services. Whether you’re seeking a short-term placement, advisory opportunities, or a permanent role, the Civil Service values your skills and perspectives.

Discover a range of opportunities to use your expertise in government. Here you can find advice, guidance, and resources, whether you want to advise government, take on a permanent role, or explore short term placements. You can also find inspiring stories from people who have already made the transition. We will be developing and updating the advice and resources on this page, so make sure to revisit to stay up to date.

The importance of scientists and engineers in government

Scientists and engineers bring valuable skills and ways of thinking that can be applied across the full range of Civil Service roles, from technical analysis to policy development, programme delivery, strategy, and leadership. Government Chief Scientific Adviser Professor Dame Angela McLean champions the value of scientists and engineers in government and wants to see more people like you embedded in the Civil Service. To find out more about how scientists and engineers contribute to government explore the GSE Careers Civil Service Careers page.

“It is hard to think of a policy or operational area that cannot be improved by engaging with science and engineering experts.”

Professor Dame Angela McLean

Government Chief Scientific Adviser

Opportunities for scientists and engineers in Civil Service

Show video transcript

0:00 Science and engineering lie at the heart of government decision making. From adapting to climate change to improving public health, we rely on evidence and insight to inform decisions. Thousands of scientists and engineers are already making a difference, but we need more in leadership roles.
00:20 If you have experience from academia, industry, or the public sector and you want to make a difference then you can join us through a permanent role, a secondment, fellowship, or advisory board. Whatever path you take, you can make a real difference. If you’re ready to bring your expertise and leadership to government, explore our science and engineering careers page, where you can find information on career benefits, case studies from people who've moved to the civil service, and much more.

“I wasn’t actively seeking a Civil Service role, but when the opportunity arose, I saw
the chance for a new challenge and a broader set of experiences. Knowing I could
influence outcomes that generate economic growth and create jobs gave me a real
sense of purpose and job satisfaction.”

Dr Thanuja Galhena, Head of Advanced Materials in Department for Business and Trade

Read about Thanuja’s move to the Civil Service

Opportunities available to scientists and engineers

Providing expert advice

Whether you’re an academic, an industry professional, or a scientific specialist, there are opportunities for you at every career stage, to make an impact using your expertise to advise government.

Find out about ways you could get involved and work with the government.

Join advisory groups or networks of experts

Respond to areas of research interest or calls for evidence

Explore opportunities within government for scientists and engineers

As a scientist or engineer, your skills are highly valued in government, not only in STEM roles, but also in shaping policy and delivering public services. Your analytical mindset and evidence-based approach can help solve complex challenges and improve decision-making across departments.

Whether you want short-term experience or a long-term career, there are many ways to get involved through fellowships, secondments, or permanent Civil Service roles.