Human Behavioural Scientist

Are you passionate about understanding how people interact with technology and how human behaviour influences cyber security outcomes?

Dstl is seeking a Human Behavioural Scientist to join a multidisciplinary team delivering cutting-edge research at the intersection of behavioural science, human-computer interaction and emerging technologies. In this role, you will help shape the UK's response to some of the most significant defence and national security challenges by investigating how people engage with digital systems, respond to cyber threats and interact with increasingly complex technologies, including AI-enabled systems.

Why join us?

Working collaboratively with colleagues across government, industry and academia, you will design and deliver research that improves understanding of human behaviour in cyber environments and informs the development of safer, more effective technologies. You will apply evidence-based approaches to explore user needs, human performance, decision-making and the human factors that influence cyber resilience.

This is an exciting opportunity for someone with expertise in behavioural science, human-computer interaction, human factors, user experience, interaction design or a related field who wants to see their research translated into real-world impact. You will be encouraged to develop your professional expertise while contributing to nationally important programmes in a supportive and collaborative environment.

This role is eligible for an additional specialist allowance of £2758 annually subject to meeting extended onboarding requirements. The role may be eligible for additional skills allowances depending on the skills and experience of the applicant.

What you'll do;

• Design, plan and deliver behavioural science and human-computer interaction research within the cyber domain.
• Lead or contribute to research projects, trials and experimental studies from concept through to completion.
• Apply specialist knowledge of human behaviour, cognition and interaction with digital technologies to solve complex defence and security challenges.
• Assess evidence and provide recommendations that support informed decision-making.
• Evaluate how people interact with cyber systems, AI-enabled technologies and digital environments.
• Produce high-quality technical reports, presentations and research outputs for a range of audiences.
• Work closely with colleagues, customers and stakeholders across Dstl, government, industry and academia.
• Support innovation and continuous improvement by sharing expertise and identifying new research opportunities.
• Ensure all work is delivered to appropriate quality, safety and security standards.

For more information on the job responsibilities, please see the job profile attached below.

A degree (BSc) in Human and Behavioural Sciences, or related discipline, with expertise in Human-Computer Interaction. A post-graduate qualification (MSc) in Human and Behavioural Sciences, or related discipline, with expertise in Human-Computer Interaction.

Open to UK nationals only.

This job is not open to candidates who hold a dual nationality.

This vacancy is using Success Profiles (opens in a new window), and will assess your Behaviours and Experience.

We want you to have your best chance of success in our recruitment process, so If at any stage of the application process you would like help or assistance please contact the Dstl Recruitment Team dstlrecruitment@dstl.gov.uk and we will do all we can to support you.

At the application stage, we will assess your submitted application against the essential criteria set out in the job profile.

Sifting will take place week commencing the 9th of November 2026 with interviews taking place from the 23rd November 2026

Your interview will consist of behavioural and technical competency-based questions. You will also be required to deliver a 10-minute presentation. Further details for the presentation will be provided to candidates invited to interview.

Feedback will only be provided if you attend an interview or assessment.