Science and Technology Facilities Council (STFC)

About Science and Technology Facilities Council (STFC)

At STFC, we don’t just support science — we enable it. As part of UK Research and Innovation (UKRI), we fund and operate some of the UK’s most advanced research facilities, helping scientists and engineers push the boundaries of knowledge in areas like particle physics, space exploration, materials science, and computing.

Our work is focused on inspiring impact – to make a real-world difference to people’s lives and the environment around us. Whether it’s sending probes into space or finding new ways to treat cancer, everyone here plays a vital role in making a positive difference to society.

We offer a range of early career opportunities, including apprenticeships, placements, internships and graduate roles. These programmes provide hands-on experience at the cutting edge of science and engineering, supported by expert mentorship and professional development.

If you're curious, driven, and ready to contribute to something bigger, STFC is a place where your ideas and energy can help shape the future.

Our Culture, Values, and Community

At STFC, our culture is shaped by curiosity, collaboration, and a shared commitment to making a real-world impact. We are home to a diverse mix of individuals who bring their whole selves to work — united by a passion for discovery and a drive to improve lives through science and innovation.

Our values shape how we work with each other and our partners — we collaborate across sectors, strive for excellence in everything we do, embrace innovation to stay at the forefront of research, and act with integrity to deliver public value through evidence-led decisions.

We believe that a supportive and inclusive environment is essential for people to thrive. Flexible working, hybrid arrangements, and a strong emphasis on wellbeing help our teams balance professional and personal responsibilities. We actively encourage diversity of thought and background, recognising that varied perspectives lead to better science and stronger solutions.

Whether you're contributing to space exploration, advanced computing, or cancer research, you’ll be part of a community that’s generous with knowledge, driven by purpose, and proud to make a difference.

Why join STFC?

Student life is great but taking time out to gain experience of the workplace can be both a rewarding and invaluable experience as you choose your path ahead. STFC can offer you the opportunity to make a difference from day one, while earning a competitive salary.

Everything we do has an impact globally and our industrial placements are no exception.

We can offer an incredibly diverse range of Engineering, Computing, Science and Technology and Business Support placements which you will be working alongside world leading engineers, scientists and technicians in highly collaborative environments. Whichever you choose, you’ll become a critical member of the team in which you will be exposed to exciting projects and challenges from the start.

We don’t believe that one size fits all – so we’ll provide challenges that match your ability, and each placement is a unique opportunity to pursue your career interests while developing the skills that will give you a head start once you graduate. You’ll be supported every step of the way by our dedicated Early Careers Team who will also ensure you benefit from a range of personal development opportunities.

Life at STFC

STFC offers a benefits package crafted to provide an excellent work/life balance including 30 days’ annual leave, an outstanding index linked pension scheme, 10.5 public and privilege days, Christmas closure and flexible working hours.

We believe that everyone has a right to be treated with dignity and respect, and to be provided with equal opportunities to flourish and succeed in an environment that enables them to do so. We have a range of employee diversity, inclusion and network groups, including but not limited to a Women in STEM network, a Carers Network, Parents Support Group, LGBTQ+ network and Mental Health First Aiders.

These networks provide our people with peer support, networking opportunities and the chance to lead positive change

We are aiming to be bold. In July 2019, the UK government committed to achieving ‘net-zero’ by 2050. Not only is research and innovation critical to delivering this national ambition, we must also take a lead in our own operations. Therefore, we are aiming to be ‘net-zero’ a decade earlier, by 2040 at the latest.

Hear from STFC's Central Laser Facility Placement students here

Join us and discover what’s possible