European Southern Observatory Council: UK science delegate

• Closing date: 27 April 2026
• Number of positions: One
• Length of term: A three-year term from 1 September 2026.
• Time commitment: ESO Council normally holds four meetings per year in Europe with the expectation of in person attendance.
• Remuneration: £170 per day
• Interview date: To be confirmed
• Outcomes communicated: To be confirmed

The European Southern Observatory (ESO) builds and operates some of the most technologically advanced terrestrial telescopes in the world. It is an intergovernmental organisation supported by 16 Member States including the UK.

ESO’s ruling body is its Council, which delegates day-to-day responsibility to the Executive under ESO’s Director General. ESO Council is composed of two delegates from each of the Member States, at least one of whom is an astronomer.

In accordance with the membership rotation, STFC is seeking to appoint a new UK science delegate to ESO Council.

What you’ll be doing

The successful applicant will have the opportunity to represent the UK’s strategic interests in ESO and contribute to the future direction of ESO’s programme.

How to apply

Check the specific details of the ESO Council UK Delegate selection criteria before deciding to apply for it.

Read the application guidance documents, which include:

• a preview of the application form
• questions and answers from a webinar we held in 2021
• testimonies from members of STFC panels, boards and committees

Apply using the online form on the UKRI Engagement Hub

How we’ll assess your application

ESO Council UK Science Delegate selection criteria:

• proven track record in astronomy with experience of ESO facilities and projects
• employment at a UK-based institute or facility
• demonstrate an understanding of the national and international context of the UK’s membership of ESO
• demonstrate strong diplomatic and communication skills with the discretion required to handle sensitive or confidential information
• demonstrate excellent strategic thinking and collaborative working skills

Further information

We are committed to the principles of fair and transparent decision-making, promoting equality, diversity and inclusion (EDI). In addition to UK Research and Innovation (UKRI) principles on EDI, STFC continues to develop a range of measures and objectives around EDI. We have undertaken an equality, diversity and inclusion impact assessment (EIA) for this opportunity, see application guidance documents.

Appointments to ESO’s governing body are made on merit. However, we are keen to maintain diversity in its membership. We especially welcome applications from:

• women
• those with a disability
• members of minority ethnic groups

Read further information regarding the role of ESO and ESO Council’s Rules of Procedure , or contact Jenny Hiscock, email: jenny.hiscock@stfc.ukri.org

Last updated: 31 March 2026