The British Antarctic Survey (BAS) is part of the Natural Environment Research Council (NERC) within the non-departmental public body of UK Research and Innovation (UKRI). UKRI is a sponsored by the Department for Science, Innovation and Technology (DSIT).
BAS offers opportunities for individuals passionate about polar research, operations, and support.
BAS conducts interdisciplinary research in the polar regions, advancing understanding of Earth and humanity’s impact on it. BAS is at the forefront of scientific discovery and committed to fostering a fair, inclusive, and diverse workplace. We have over 500 highly skilled and professional staff.
Organisation and people
BAS operates with an annual budget of approximately £50 million, primarily funded by NERC. Additional money comes from international collaborations and specific governmental activities. BAS is the UK’s focal point for Antarctic research and operations, and manages the NERC-funded Arctic Research Programme and the UK’s Arctic research station at Ny-Ålesund.
International collaboration is vital to polar research. BAS actively shapes and supports global research programmes.
BAS employs over 130 scientists who annually publish numerous peer-reviewed papers on global issues in physical, biological, and geological sciences.
Field Team of scientists and Field assistant on King George Island
BAS also nurtures the next generation of polar scientists through its doctoral training programme, supporting around 70 postgraduate researchers.
The leadership team, including professor Jane Francis and directors of science, operations, and innovation and impact, guide BAS to improve planetary knowledge and predict environmental change. This, in turn, informs government policy and economic decision-making.
A strong emphasis is placed on staff development. We conduct extensive training, continuous professional development, and annual performance appraisals, particularly for those working in extreme polar environments. This dedication to excellence in our people is reflected in our Athena Swan silver award.
Cultural values
BAS’s core cultural values are known by the acronym PRICE: positive, responsible, innovative, cooperative, and excellent. These values cultivate a respectful and inclusive work environment.
BAS is committed to equality, diversity, and inclusion (EDI). We recognise that a diverse workforce fosters creativity, collaboration, and dynamic research. Over a third of our people, including in leadership roles, are women. But we acknowledge the need for further diversity, particularly as regards ethnic backgrounds and disabilities.
BAS Doctor on RRS Sir David Attenborough
To address this, BAS actively implements its EDI framework, aligning with UKRI’s EDI policy and integrating it into its broader strategy and people strategy through a three-year plan and an active EDI network.
Employee wellbeing and benefits
The wellbeing of our people is a priority for BAS. The Safety Together campaign, launched in 2023, emphasises the integration of mental health and social wellbeing into overall safety culture. This initiative promotes continual learning, prevention, and constant improvements, encouraging employees to prioritise their mental health, report concerns, and speak up against unwanted behaviour.
SDA crew during a brief break in cargo operations
BAS maintains a zero-tolerance policy for bullying, harassment, and discriminatory conduct. Support resources include an employee assistance programme, welfare officers, and mental health first aiders.
BAS offers a comprehensive and generous employee benefits package that varies based on contract type and work location. For those based in Cambridge or on combined Cambridge/Antarctica contracts, benefits include:
- defined-benefit pension scheme
- additional allowances for Antarctic deployments
- employer discounts
- 30 days of annual leave
- flexible hours
- family-friendly policies including generous parental leave and career breaks.
Antarctic-only contracts provide a set starting salary with staged increases, a 10% bonus on completion of a tour, pre-deployment training, and accommodation.
Marine contracts also feature a generous pension, comprehensive sick pay, and support for further training.
As an Investors in People-accredited employer, BAS prioritises learning and development, offering personal and professional training, polar survival skills, access to learning resources, and a mentoring scheme.
Employees benefit from a stimulating work environment with state-of-the-art facilities, diverse teams, and opportunities to work in unique wilderness areas.
Further details on benefits for UKRI can be found here: Providing opportunities, support, and benefits to you when working at UKRI.
Life in Cambridge
Our Cambridge facility offers a vibrant setting for life and work. BAS assists new employees with information on accommodation, providing resources for both short-term and long-term housing through the University of Cambridge Accommodation Service, an internal BAS bulletin board, and external letting agents. Hotels, guest houses, and self-catering options are also listed for staff and visitors.
Working for BAS means becoming part of an extraordinary organisation dedicated to pioneering science, and embarking on a rewarding career with exceptional benefits in a unique field.