Creating An Environment Where People Can Thrive
At NOC, our Values reflect who we are, how we work, and the impact we strive to have on the world. They guide our decisions, shape our partnerships, and help us create an environment where people and science can thrive.
The ocean is a shared global resource, and understanding it requires diverse perspectives, talents and ideas. We recognise that diversity in all its forms fuels innovation and strengthens our ability to deliver world-leading science. Our Values help ensure everyone at NOC feels included, respected and empowered to make a difference.
Excellence
We pursue excellence in everything we do.
It is the foundation of our scientific reputation and the quality of our contributions to society. We create an environment where people feel valued, supported, and encouraged to grow — because exceptional science comes from exceptional people.
Innovative Thinking
We are driven by curiosity and creativity.
Innovation thrives when people are open to new ideas and different ways of working. We encourage flexible thinking, collaboration and continuous improvement to ensure our research remains at the forefront of global ocean science.
Empowerment
We believe people are our greatest asset.
At NOC, everyone has the opportunity to shape our success. We support personal development, encourage leadership at all levels, and foster a culture where individuals and teams feel confident, trusted, and able to contribute fully.
Environmental Responsibility
We care deeply about the ocean and the planet.
Our work is rooted in understanding the environment, and we take responsibility for minimising our impact on it. From the decisions we make to the way we operate daily, we consider how we can protect and preserve the natural world.
Integrity
We act with independence, honesty and respect.
Scientific integrity and trust underpin all our work. We hold ourselves accountable, treat each other fairly, and make decisions that uphold the highest ethical standards — both within our organisation and in collaboration with others.
Working in Partnership
We achieve more when we work together.
Ocean science is a collaborative endeavour, and we actively seek to share knowledge, resources and expertise. Whether partnering with global research institutions, industry or local communities, we believe in building strong, purposeful relationships that amplify our impact.
Values Awards
Every year, the NOC Values Awards shine a spotlight on colleagues who bring our Values to life. Led by our Culture Club, these awards recognise individuals whose outstanding, values-driven actions make a meaningful difference to our organisation and community.
What makes the NOC Values Awards unique is that they are entirely peer-to-peer. Anyone can nominate a colleague, regardless of role, team, location or grade. It’s our way of celebrating the people who go above and beyond — those who inspire, support and innovate every day. The awards are presented at our annual Summer Celebration, where we come together to honour the people who make NOC such a special place to work.
Staff Events
In addition to our annual Summer Celebration, we also host Christmas events across all our locations, bringing colleagues together to mark the festive season with food, entertainment and our much‑loved Christmas quiz, which attracts an impressive number of enthusiastic teams each year.
What matters most to us is ensuring that everyone—whether based at one of our land‑based sites or working at sea on our research ships—has the opportunity to take part. We work closely with teams across the organisation to make sure celebrations are accessible and enjoyable for all, adapting activities so that staff at sea can join in the fun and feel connected to the wider organisation, no matter where they are in the world.
Want to Work at NOC?
We are a world-leading oceanographic centre employing over 700 people. We provide excellent opportunities for staff from the UK and around the world, and from a range of backgrounds, to collaborate and contribute their experience and ideas to produce the highest quality research.