At Dstl, you’ll not only be involved in tackling and solving some of the most challenging science and technology problems facing the UK Government, Armed Forces and security services. You’ll be using state-of-the-art technology and know that the work that you do really does make a difference.

Why we exist

As the Defence Science and Technology Laboratory (Dstl) a trading fund of the Ministry of Defence (MOD), much of our work has to be confidential. But behind the scenes, approx 3,500 of the most talented, inspirational and innovative scientists in their fields are pushing back the frontiers of knowledge, delivering solutions that impact on the security of the UK.

We help to keep the MOD, the Armed Forces and the security services ahead of the increasingly complex challenges they face on the battlefield and the home front - defining threats, devising effective countermeasures, and advising on future policy.

It’s demanding, exciting and rewarding work. And each year, we recruit 150 graduates to become part of it by joining the Dstl team.

The work we do

Our work is wide-ranging, from urgent support for ongoing military operations to detailed research that helps define the next generation of military equipment. We modify existing technology or develop new technologies - whatever the situation demands. We work in our own state-of-the-art laboratories and we deploy team members to the MOD, Armed Forces and other government departments to provide local resources of expertise.

At Dstl, you’ll not only be involved in tackling and solving some of the most challenging science and technology problems facing the UK Government, Armed Forces and security services. You’ll be using state of the art technology and know that the work that you do really does make a difference.

Our future

Dstl is a trading fund of the Ministry of Defence. The work we do is extraordinarily diverse and the range of skills we need reflects that. We’re not just looking for fresh, early twenties graduates either. You’ll find us just as welcoming if you’re a mature graduate, currently working for another organisation or returning to work. Of course, whatever your background, we’ll expect you to have a passion for developing knowledge.

You and your degree

Throughout your development, regular performance reviews and our ’buddy’ scheme ensure advice and support is always on hand.

We’ll give you the chance to put academic theory into practice and to explore the limits of your creativity. We’ll give you responsibility and provide full support for self development. Our chartership scheme will help you gain membership of a relevant professional body. And we’ll encourage and fund you to take further qualifications. There’s even a real prospect of UK and overseas secondments through our partnerships with industry and NATO allies.

Training details

Graduates receive a balanced programme of courses to develop technical and non-technical skills. Sponsorship is available to gain chartered status and take further qualifications. And there are opportunities for secondments, both in the UK and overseas.

Work/life balance

Yours is important to us! To help you achieve it, we offer fully flexible working patterns, childcare support, and a host of on-site sporting, social and recreational facilities. You’ll also enjoy an excellent benefits package. Starting salaries are designed to attract the most creative minds, there’s a generous holiday allowance - and we offer a final salary pension scheme.