DSTL

Application Advice:

Be honest, show you're a great communicator.

Interview Advice:

My interview contained a team work element, so make sure you show your enthusiasm. Don't be afraid to ask questions about the work, you might not get answers to everything until you start but everyone is very friendly.

Graduate, Counter Terrorism and Security at DSTL
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Application Advice:

Have good examples of projects you have done related to your degree and don't be afraid to use the sample examples to show different competencies.

Interview Advice:

Look through the MOD competency framework while doing your application and interview. Pick a topic you really enjoy to present on as this will come across during the questions and answer part at the end. Also ask lots of questions about the role at the end to show your interest.

Analytical Chemist, EAG at DSTL
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Application Advice:

Demonstrate an enthusiasm for the defence industry and what additional skills you have gained from university.

Interview Advice:

Be prepared to demonstrate some knowledge of the military and its equipment. Show you are a team player in group tasks and prepare answers for competency based questions.

Platform Systems Graduate, Platform Systems at DSTL
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Application Advice:

Goood examples of relevant research work

Interview Advice:

Try to get your interviewers interested in your chosen subject

Graduate Engineer, Platform Systems at DSTL
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Application Advice:

Use all your experiences when answering the competency questions. Don't tailor your answers to what you think they want to hear.

Interview Advice:

Make sure you have a broad understanding of Dstl/MOD as a whole. E.g. where are the British Military currently deployed?

Research Scientist, CTS at Other (please specify)
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Application Advice:

Tell the truth and don't exaggerate, but don't underestimate yourself!

Interview Advice:

Stay calm, talk through your process and answer the questions as thoughtfully as you can - don't be afraid to ask questions.

EPM Scientist, CIS at DSTL
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Application Advice:

Clearance forms take a while to complete, be prepared to set a substantial chunk of time aside for this.

Interview Advice:

Prepare for questions outside your area. It doesn't matter if you get an answer wrong, interviewers are looking for how you answer the questions and the methods you apply to your thinking.

Physicist, PLSD at DSTL
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Application Advice:

There are quite a few stages but they are not overly difficult and are designed to find out more about you rather than catch you out.

Interview Advice:

Very nice 2 person technical interview rather than an assessment centre. I wasn't very knowledgeable about the subject matter for the role I was applying for, but that was expected. They were more interested in the way I approached problems and could transfer knowledge. Also Included a short 10 minute presentation on a university project and Q and A after. Overall it was actually a nice interview and I came out of it feeling I'd given a good account of myself rather than my normal anxious mess.

Graduate Engineer, Counter Terrorism ans Security at DSTL
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Application Advice:

Make sure to look up the civil service competencies beforehand and structure your application answers in a way that demonstrates these clearly.

Interview Advice:

Read some recent news around the defence industry and make sure to speak your thought process when answering technical questions. They want to see how you think and work through a problem.

Graduate Engineer, Platform Systems at DSTL
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Application Advice:

The adverts are vague but this is due to security, don't let it put you off.

Interview Advice:

Be able to answer both technical and company based questions and have examples for competencies.

Scientist, Counter Terrorism and Security at DSTL
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Application Advice:

Sell yourself as the whole package, not just technically

Interview Advice:

Show your interest and passion in the subject matter

Graduate Engineer, Platforms Systems at DSTL
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Application Advice:

give specific examples to show your experience and knowledge.

Interview Advice:

be willing to admit when you do not know the answer to a question, and actively engage in conversation with the interviewers.

Team Member, Counter Terrorism and Security at DSTL
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Application Advice:

Think creatively about your competencies and try to source them from different experiences, rather than just one previous job or degree programme.

Interview Advice:

Come prepared with knowledge about UK defence, especially if applying for an analytical role. Dstl is a defence organisation and this knowledge is very beneficial.

Know your competencies and situations in which you have demonstrated them.

DSTL
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Application Advice:

Research the company

Interview Advice:

Brush up on presentation skills and technical knowledge from your degree (basic maths and physics)
Use the STAR format for answering competency questions
Ask about the specific work you will do in the role

Team member, Counter Terrorism and Security at DSTL
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Application Advice:

Don't only apply if you have a technical degree - there is a real variety of work and pretty much any degree can be applied.

Interview Advice:

Be prepared to talk about yourself as a person not just a potential employee - they value having a large variety of employees and personality is rated as well as skills.

Operational Analyst, Defence and Security Analysis at DSTL
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Interview Advice:

Be prepared for a combo of technical questions and more general questions. Especially regarding what the organisation does.

Be prepared for a long wait for clearances!

Systems Engineer, Systems Engineering at DSTL
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Application Advice:

Standard application got me an interview but things that apparently stood out was my interests outside of work, examples of good work ethic and reliability, as well as examples of problem solving.

Interview Advice:

Interview involved talking about what I knew about DSTL as a company as well as what I thought my department did. I'd recommend researching DSTL with a focus on your applied department before the interview to show your interest.

Team Member, ECM at DSTL
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Application Advice:

Include anything about yourself which is interesting eg. I spent a year studying in Lausanne - employers are looking for team fit as much as capabilities.

Interview Advice:

Just be yourself and be friendly!

Scientist, CIS at DSTL
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Application Advice:

Same with any application, make sure you do some practice verbal/numerical reasoning tests before you do the actual ones!

Interview Advice:

If asked to do a presentation, practice, practice, practice it because it's a key part of work at Dstl and something that really sticks in interviewers minds.

DSTL
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Application Advice:

Carefully read the person specification and pick out key words. You can then see where your previous experience fits the role that's being recruited. Do some practice before completing the online tests.

Interview Advice:

Be yourself. Don't be afraid if you can't answer a question in the technical interview - the interviewers have to see where the limit of your knowledge is. Really prepare if they ask you to present on previous work - it's your chance to shine.

Forensic Researcher, FEL at DSTL
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Application Advice:

Be honest and show your interests! They want people that can apply themselves to different roles, using different skills. If you're better at one thing than another, but really enjoy something else entirely, don't be afraid to show it.

Interview Advice:

They're going to ask you something you don't know about; don't worry! They're not interested in what you know, but how you think about it. Talk as you go, explain what you're thinking.

Graduate Scientist/Engineer, Platform Systems at DSTL
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Application Advice:

Report writing and communication skills have been incredibly useful in my role to date, so would perhaps be useful in the application. Keeping track of my own tasks and taking charge of my role have been required skills, so examples of where you have had to work independently as a part of a team would also look good.

Interview Advice:

The questions I was asked seemed based on my CV, including some programming and physics-related questions. Although it was quite a while ago now and I can't remember the HR questions particularly well. Relax and come across positively, this will be much more effective than being a stoic and answering everything well. My interviewers are now people on my team so were also looking for a colleague, not just someone who is all singing and dancing.

Graduate Scientist, CTS at DSTL
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Application Advice:

Explain what technical skills you have, for example any computer programming skills. Even if you are only a novice, it helps!

Interview Advice:

Try to think outside the box when it comes to the technical questions and don't rush them.

Data Scientist, Defence and Security Analysis at DSTL
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Application Advice:

Start early; the application process is very long-winded and thorough

Interview Advice:

Read up on your specialist area and expect challenging questions relating to your expertise and its applications to work

DSTL
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Application Advice:

Go in open minded and accept all opportunities.

DSTL
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Application Advice:

Focus on your skills and projects undertaken in your application. Also look through the DSTL job website to find out about the different areas of DSTL and what skills they use then apply to specific departments.

Interview Advice:

You will be asked for a 10 minute informal presentation, so pick a project that you have completed that you thoroughly understand. The interviewers are mainly looking for people who can think critically and analyse information. So it is alright to not know the answer to a question, but you should attempt an answer in which you explain your thinking that lead you to that answer.

DSTL
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Interview Advice:

Read about defence

Application Advice:

The Civil Service works by giving examples of competencies so back everything up with evidence.

DSTL
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Application Advice:

Don't get put off by the bureaucracy.

Interview Advice:

Know the company well. Expect technical based questions relevant to the group you're applying to.

DSTL
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Application Advice:

Be honest and make sure you read the job description to try and match what skills and competencies you have to that required of the job role.

Interview Advice:

Research the Civil Service competencies framework since they use this across the civil service to help with asking you competency questions. Ensure you have examples to back these up.
Also expect to be asked questions relevant to your degree as well as questions related to defence (e.g. radar, platform protection etc).

Graduate Scientist, Platform Systems Division at DSTL
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Application Advice:

Focus on what you did when discussing competencies. 'I' did this, rather than 'we'.

Emphasise any self-driven learning you have completed.

Read up on the Civil Service competency framework.

Interview Advice:

Focus on what you did when discussing competencies. 'I' did this, rather than 'we'.

Emphasise any self-driven learning you have completed.

Do some background research into defence and the UK Armed Forces.

Graduate Engineer, Platform Systems at DSTL
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Application Advice:

Have clear motivations for joining and state these clearly on the form.

Be clear as to where your expertise lies, as this will result in you being interviewed for the best-suited role.

Interview Advice:

Be able to explain in depth your final year project, including how you see it fitting into the real world of science and technology.

Come prepared with examples of working with others and multitasking, as these are the skills that will be assessed with emphasis.

Engineer, CT&S at DSTL
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Interview Advice:

Go over the job description and make sure that you are confident with the background skills that your job would require.

Graduate, Cyber and Information Systems at DSTL
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Application Advice:

Get involved with year in industry/ summer placement opportunities.
Have an open mind about the kind of things you want to be involved in.

Interview Advice:

Have a wide knowledge about defence and its relation to current events.

Graduate Analyst, Defence Security Analysis at DSTL
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Application Advice:

If you enjoy solving real world problems and working with a wide variety of people go for it!

Interview Advice:

Be yourself and relax. Make sure you understand who your audience is (for example I was doing a presentation on my Mathematics Masters project but my interviewers didn't have a background to I changed how I was going to present).
Also ask questions about the role/area you will be working in and show enthusiasm.

Graduate Analyst, DSA at DSTL
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Application Advice:

The money may not be the highest on offer (being Civil Service) but the work/life balance and other benefits make up for that in my eyes so don't let that put you off.
With the application, just be yourself and convey why you want the job and why you'd be a good fit.

Interview Advice:

Hard to say, they can vary greatly based on the Division you're applying for and who's conducting the interview. Just be relaxed and be yourself.

Graduate, Platform Systems at DSTL
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Application Advice:

Look at the civil service competencies.

Interview Advice:

Be yourself and be honest.

Application Advice:

Use examples in your application and interview that are not exclusively university based. It is important to show that you have taken part in other areas such as clubs and societies.

Interview Advice:

Make sure you are aware of current affairs relating to the field you are going into.

Research Scientist – Graduate, Explosives Detection at DSTL
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Application Advice:

The work will not be immediately obvious but highlight your broad range of experience.

Interview Advice:

Know an explosive structure.
Know analytical techniques.
Research current military operations/deployments.

Scientist, CTS at DSTL
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Application Advice:

Show that you're interested and enthusiastic about the subject of work. If you have any work experience that is related to the job subject, make sure that you mention it. Show that you're a friendly and approachable person. Don't go on about your leadership skills too much as the company is looking for people who can work hard rather than lead, first and foremost.

Interview Advice:

I was asked quite a lot about the work I did at university. Specifically, my final year project work. Knowing basic engineering equations (such as Newton's laws of motion) and what they mean off by heart is very useful as you will likely be asked about them.

Application Advice:

Make sure to mention extracurricular activity.

Interview Advice:

Describe your best strength and explain why it is.

Graduate – Engineer, at DSTL
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Application Advice:

Be enthusiastic and open minded.

Graduate Engineer, Platform Systems at DSTL
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Application Advice:

A good place to gain some experience in a variety of work for a couple years after graduation but not a long term career.

Graduate – Team Member, at DSTL
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Application Advice:

Think critically about what it is you wish to do within the company, but importantly what Dstl actually do. Job roles are not always specific or clear given the work we conduct but if you have a good broad understanding of the field and how Dstl's work may input into that you will be in a good position for the interview.

Interview Advice:

Be open and honest with your answers. If you do not know an answer say so, it is often a test of how good you are at thinking critically. It is perfectly acceptable to not know, but suggest how you would find out the answer, or suggest possible answers based on your current knowledge.

Scientist, Explosive detection at DSTL
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Application Advice:

Demonstrate an interest in your chosen field on your CV and any leadership responsibilities.

Interview Advice:

You'll be expected to show analytical thinking and answer some basic questions on the theory of your chosen subject. Do some background reading on the role you have applied for.

Graduate – Team Member, Sensing and Detection at DSTL
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Application Advice:

Learn how to write concisely and to the point: Situation-Task-Action-Response.

Interview Advice:

Give up on your ego: don't let shyness get in the way, be friendly to everyone.

In the group discussion, be the "timekeeper" and ask quiet group members for their input.

You don't have to be passionate or knowledgeable about military things, but a dim awareness of current affairs is helpful.

Application Advice:

Be open to trying new areas of work, DSTL are good at allowing new graduates to try a lot of different things before refining what you actually do.

Interview Advice:

Have confidence in your abilities. Try and do some background research into the company and the MOD. You may be given some example problems to solve in the interview, the interviewer is looking to see how you tackle a problem so it is not always essential that you get to the answer; try not to panic too much and do your best.

Graduate – Survivability Engineer, Platform Survivability at DSTL
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Application Advice:

If you're genuinely interested in the area of work, apply. Show that you're innovative, working for DSTL is all about being innovative in overcoming challenges, and thinking of new ways to exploit current or future technologies.

Interview Advice:

Background/fundamental knowledge in your degree area. I was asked questions based around the fundamentals of my degree (Mechanical engineering), the questions were mostly based around physics and mechanics and how they apply to real world applications. I was also asked questions about how I would react in certain situations i.e. if I don't know something - how do I find out.

Graduate Mechanical Engineer, at DSTL
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Application Advice:

Stay open minded and flexible, as you never know what opportunity is going to be around the corner at this organisation.

If your colleague fancies a chat in the corridor always take the time to speak to them and never be dismissive, you will find that these random experiences will often lead to answering an important question or finding niche contacts / areas of expertise.

Interview Advice:

Military equipment procurement and production e.g. respirators.

Knowledge gleaned through military experience or experience gained from cadets at school.

Graduate – Analyst, Defence Security Analysis at DSTL
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Application Advice:

There is a wide array of opportunities and various projects to get involved in so you will find something that you enjoy.

Application Advice:

- Knowledge of area you are applying for
- Knowledge of military and Dstl's role/support to the MOD

Interview Advice:

- Technical questions based on area of potential work
- Short, informal presentation of Final Year Project
- Typical interview questions "Give me an example of when...", "What would you do if..." etc.
- How dealing with military personnel would be diff

Graduate, Cyber and Information Systems at DSTL
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Application Advice:

Think about how your degree can relate to current scientific research.

Application Advice:

Understand the organisation and what it does i.e. its' objectives, goals, principles ethics etc.

Interview Advice:

Be open and honest.

Application Advice:

Be confident in your abilities and make sure you know the basics very well.

Interview Advice:

Just make sure you know the basics of the field you are interviewing for.

Physicist, Semiconductors at DSTL
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Application Advice:

Make sure you fill out the application form fully with as much detail as you can. I've seen the recruiters here dismiss any application with empty boxes on the form, I know it's long, but it's worth taking the time to do properly.

Interview Advice:

Make sure you're aware of current affairs, especially with regards to defence. But more importantly, relax! Everyone here is lovely and pretty chilled, provided you answer the question as well as you can, they don't mind if you're nervous or take some time to think. Also, don't stress too much about the assessment centre element, it's really not as bad as it sounds.

Graduate Scientist, Platform Systems at DSTL
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Application Advice:

Don't rush the application form, take the time to properly go over the questions and draft answers and have someone else take a look at them before you send them off.

Interview Advice:

Be prepared to have examples of displaying various competencies. Most of these you can probably find through things you have done at university or previous jobs.

Application Advice:

Demonstrate an ability to problem solve. Show willingness to learn.

Graduate Scientist, Cyber and Information Systems at DSTL
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Application Advice:

Be honest, and discuss your subject specific interests. Due to the nature of the work being classified until after acceptance, what you say about your interests can have an impact on what you end up working on.

Graduate, Counter Terrorism & Security at DSTL
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Application Advice:

Have the best relevant information on your CV related to the job description. Answer the question of 'why should DSTL hire you?' If you can answer that question on your CV you will have a good chance. Keep the CV to 2 pages maximum. Search how to write and present a CV.

Interview Advice:

Practice group discussion tasks. Contribute as much as you can but not too much, don't be overpowering with other candidates. The interview panel are looking for team players so be a team player in the group task. Be prepared for answering questions on what you studied. Based on your CV and experiences, DSTL should match you to a team leader who works in that field and they will question you on your knowledge, so read up. Be open, honest and don't make stuff up because they will see right through it. Arrive on time for your interview.

Scientist, at DSTL
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Application Advice:

Be enthusiastic about the role.

Graduate Engineer, Weapons Platforms at DSTL
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Application Advice:

The interviews and your potential future line management are interested in you being well rounded, having both technical skills as well as leadership and communication skills. It is more than simply having a good grade, it's about what you can prove that you have done that highlights your ability to work as a team, to communicate to your leaders and others your work and your ability to adapt and overcome rapidly changing situations.

Interview Advice:

I was asked the basics (why you want to work here etc.) but was also asked technical "out of the box" questions, questions which required application of the physics that I had learnt to find solutions to the questions. It wasn't the solution they were looking for and more about the process that I took to reach my answer.

Scientist, Cyber and Information Systems – Sensor Protection Team at DSTL
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Application Advice:

Match personal skills to Civil Service competencies.

Interview Advice:

Get involved in any group tasks at the interview. Again, match personal skills to Civil Service competencies.

Operations Analyst, Defence and Security Analysis at DSTL
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Application Advice:

Good first job!

Analyst, Maritime Integrated Survivability at DSTL
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Application Advice:

Make sure you get someone to read over the application.

Interview Advice:

Make sure you contribute to the group exercise as you cannot be marked on what you don’t say. During the interview make sure you comment on what you did during any projects, so say I not we, to make sure they know exactly what you did.

Operational Analyst, at DSTL
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Application Advice:

Highlight projects you have been involved in as a lot of the work here is project based so team work etc. are probably what HR will be looking for.

Interview Advice:

As above.
With the technical questions the interviewer will be looking for you to work through the problem, even if you don't know the answer the point is to make an educated guess that you have arrived at through prior knowledge and logical reasoning.

Graduate Engineer, Weapon Systems at DSTL
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Application Advice:

Gather examples of teamwork, projects undertaken, and examples of successful achievements outside of work/study - e.g. sports teams, hobbies, interests.

Interview Advice:

Research the military aspect of the role/technology area applied for. Prepare for competency questions such as teamwork, problem solving, colleague relations, strengths, weaknesses.

Application Advice:

Align your answers to the competency based questions to Level 3 (HEO & SEO or equiv) of the Civil Service Competency Framework. This document is freely available on the web. Graduate jobs are a Dstl Level 4 which aligns to Level 3 on the Civil Service Competency Framework.

Make sure your CV is up-to-date and looks professional. Keep it to about 2 sides of A4. Tailor it to the job.

Give an example of when you have worked to meet a deadline?
Give an example of when you have worked as a team?
Give an example of when you have had to make a difficult decision?
List what you have done at university particularly if you have held positions of responsibility.
List any scholarships you have been awarded.
Write down what modules you have studied.
List what voluntary work you have done.
Write down if you have had any military experience - Cadets, Officer Training Corps/University Air Squadron/University Royal Naval Unit, Reserve Forces, Regular Forces.
Write down if you have held any placements at Dstl or other Defence industry partners (e.g. Selex, BAE Systems, Thales, etc.)
State if you have student/associate membership of any professional bodies relevant to your degree (e.g. IET, IChemE, IMechE, RAeS, IOP, RSC, etc.)

Interview Advice:

Learn about what Dstl does from the website.
You will have a group discussion exercise.
At the interview centre you will have opportunities to speak to current graduates.
General Questions:
Why do you want the job?
Give an example of when you worked as a team?
Give an example of when you have worked to change or improve something?
Give an example of how you have dealt with conflict?
Give an example of when you had to meet a deadline?

Technical questions:
Give a presentation on your final year project?
What do you think the definition of "survivability" is in the context of the Ministry of Defence?
Give examples of what can be used to improve aircraft survivability. Think chaff, flare, camouflage, reduce radar cross section, etc.
How would you develop and test a system so that it could be used operationally on an aircraft?
Current affairs in aviation/military aviation.

Graduate Engineer, Platform Systems at DSTL
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Application Advice:

If you can convey your enthusiasm for R&D applied to defence that is a large part of what they are looking for. For example, if you have been in cadets or the reserves that is a helpful thing to mention.

Interview Advice:

The competencies written by government science and engineering (GSE) are the things they will be looking for in your answers so prepare examples that demonstrate these.

Scientist, Sensors at DSTL
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Interview Advice:

Read (and understand) what is in the news for a sustained period. The interviewer will want to know how you analyse trends - it is not good enough just to repeat today's headlines.

Analyst, Geopolitical analysis at DSTL
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Application Advice:

Fill out the competency questions properly.

Interview Advice:

Read up about the lab and defence in general. Go over your application so you can prepare for the competency part of the interview.

Graduate Analyst, Operational Analysis at DSTL
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Application Advice:

Show how your degree has a high core Chemistry component and for the competencies questions give examples outside of university and work, try and show you do other activities in your free time.

Interview Advice:

Research different analytical technique especially spectroscopy, be aware of current issues and threats to the UK and in general what the wider MOD does, come prepared with knowledge of common explosives and the molecular structure of them, give examples for the competencies questions outside of university and work, try and show you do other activities in your free time.

Scientist, Explosives Detection at DSTL
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Application Advice:

Be aware of current affairs and have broad horizons as the nature of the work is diverse. Degree knowledge alone won't stand you out from other applicants - be ready to apply broader skills or knowledge to new scenarios.

Interview Advice:

My interview was quite intimate and not conducted in a large room with a large panel, just two employees in a small room and followed a short presentation. I was asked to prepare an area of study/work that I had conducted, delivered and enjoyed. This was then followed by current affairs questions and a couple of short technical questions.

Graduate Analyst, Tactical and Medical Logistical Analysis at DSTL
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Application Advice:

If applying for a technical role try to also focus on your leadership skills and show that you can juggle multiple projects at once.

Interview Advice:

I interviewed for a physicist position and so my interview was focused on technical questions, the interviewers were looking for how I broke problems down and solved them by asking "left-field" questions. Don't be afraid to take a few minutes to think, it's better than rushing to give answers and if you don't know but have an idea to describe it. They're looking for how you attempted to tackle the problem not the solution itself.

Graduate Scientist, Sensor Protection at DSTL
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Application Advice:

Nothing specific.

Physicist, Platforms Division at DSTL
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Interview Advice:

Be yourself, take an interest in the role and don't be afraid to ask lots of questions.

Application Advice:

They're usually looking for a solid physics background; you don't always have to be a specialist in anything, but an all-rounder always does well. They also consider how diplomatic you are and how well you'll fit into a team, so be pleasant and polite, but not too rigid or afraid.

Ask a lot of questions about the team, people's experiences here are either fantastic or not so good because of the team environment.

Interview Advice:

I was asked a lot of fundamental physics that I didn't actually know the exact answer to, but I walked them through what I would do to find out the answer and it seemed to work.

Scientist, at DSTL
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Application Advice:

Application is the usual array of online tests, group exercises and a technical interview.

Interview Advice:

You can't really prepare for this, just make sure you know your subject.

Graduate Scientist, Platform Systems at DSTL
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Interview Advice:

Be prepared to answer questions on a range of technical disciplines - the interviewers will push to find the limits of your knowledge.

Computer Scientist, at DSTL
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Application Advice:

Give as many of your technical skills as possible, sometimes recruiters are looking for a particular skill for their team. Don't talk about a skill unless you are happy with that being latched onto as your only skill and being dragged into that as your job.

Interview Advice:

Expect a competency interview with questions like 'How do you optimize your time?'

Team Member, at DSTL
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Application Advice:

Experience, however big or small always helps.

Interview Advice:

Research the company
Be confident
If you don't know, ask.

RF Threat Engineer, Platform systems at DSTL
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Application Advice:

There must be a better job out there for you. You will have an interview assessing technical and competency skills, a debate and a written exercise. The written exercise was harder than the interview. Do not try and take charge of the group during the debate.

Interview Advice:

There may be a five minute presentation required as part of your interview.

Application Advice:

Know the basics of the area/field you apply for.

Graduate Scientist, Naval Sensors at DSTL
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Application Advice:

Make sure you read up about the area you've applied for. It's so easy to find even simple information about the aircraft, ships or land equipment the MOD uses, but it's more important if you've applied for a more focused technical area. Also make sure you have plenty of competency examples for both the application and interview.

Interview Advice:

A lot of questions in my interview were based on what the company does and systems thinking. In other interviews I've been asked more technical questions, so again, read up about the area you've applied for.

Graduate Analyst, Air and Maritime Power Projection at DSTL
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Application Advice:

Show that you enjoy what you do! Show that you can learn.

Don't think that you can't do the job, DSTL like cross discipline people - Our section has Computer Scientists, Computer Forensic experts, Physicists and Mathematicians.

Interview Advice:

Don't panic at the interview. The interviewers genuinely want to find good employees and are willing to give you a chance to show how good you are. They are human too!

Cyber graduate, Cyber at DSTL
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Application Advice:

Be enthusiastic about what you know.

Interview Advice:

Answer the questions as best you can and don't be afraid to say you don't know.

Application Advice:

I’d suggest being honest in the application. The organisation has a diverse range of roles, and giving a good idea of what you are interested in maximises the potential that you are placed in an appropriate area. There is a risk you may become ‘lost’ in the application process and end up in the wrong area. Demonstrate understanding of Defence and Security issues in the short, medium and long term.

Interview Advice:

My only advice is to make sure you demonstrate a genuine interest in the field of work. Keep really up to date with current events and think about the biggest Defence and Security pressures likely to affect national security in the last 10 years. Highlight how defence issues are interconnected. For example, the threat of x is compounded by restrictions in public sector expenditure, legal issues, technological concerns, etc.

Defence Analyst, Defence and Security Analysis at DSTL
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Application Advice:

Just be yourself, I know that sounds cliche, but be yourself. They are an organisation that works in a sensitive area, not being entirely honest will hurt your chances.

Interview Advice:

Same as above. Oh and practice.

Graduate Scientist, Physics and Sensors at DSTL
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Application Advice:

Research Military areas and show an interest in this when you apply.

Engineer, Platform Survivability at DSTL
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Application Advice:

Make sure you actually enjoy the area of science you are applying to do before you apply. Attempt to understand military applications for your subject area.

Graduate Scientist, Physics at DSTL
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Application Advice:

Check what they're looking for in the job role and think about how you've done things which might demonstrate what they're looking for. Even if it's not engineering based put it in; it will show you know what you're talking about.

Interview Advice:

I was shown a wireless router circuit board and asked to point out where the radio circuit was; now I'd never seen inside a wireless router before and was very nervous. So I asked for a moment to check it over and take a look before calming down and applying what I know about circuits to the problem and correctly identified the appropriate section.

Therefore my advice is don't rush into things; take it at your own pace and if asked a question feel free to ask for clarification or time to think it over. Within reason of course.

Team member, Spectrum Assurance at DSTL
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Application Advice:

We're looking for interesting people with hands on experience, tell us about your interests and passions, what you've tried and failed at can be just as interesting to us as when you've succeeded.

Interview Advice:

Be open and honest, don't be afraid to tell us if you don't know the answer to a technical question, they're designed to reveal your way of thinking, not what you know.

Cyber Scientist, Software Techniques at DSTL
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Application Advice:

Be yourself and answer the questions truthfully - they just want to know who you are. Don't be worried if you can't find out much information about the company... you learn it all when you get here.

Interview Advice:

Be yourself... I am a physics graduate so was asked typical physics questions such as could I describe the EM spectrum and properties of different types of EM radiation. There were also some general physics questions such as 'How do ice skates work?' - (friction, high pressure from thin blade etc), and 'how do aeroplanes fly?'. It is better to try and answer even if you aren't sure - my interviewers were really friendly and I didn't know all the answers!

Graduate Scientist, Optics and Lasers at DSTL
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Application Advice:

Ask questions at the interview as to what department you are being interviewed for.

Interview Advice:

Display competencies from all of your backgrounds. Work experience, uni, volunteering to show breadth.

Application Advice:

If you want to do some fairly interesting applied work then apply, if money is one of the higher priorities then look elsewhere as not only does industry pay better but other related government bodies pay better also.

Interview Advice:

Stick to what you know, too many candidates seem to embellish the truth about how much they know about topic areas then fail to adequately explain them when asked.

Software Engineer, at DSTL
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Application Advice:

Problem solving and being able to think around a problem are great.

Able to express yourself as you might be meeting clients.

Able to meet deadlines and get work done in both a team and yourself.

Interview Advice:

Some basic physics problems that might relate to work you've done or is related.

Questions to think about (no expertise expected!) practically related to the job being applied for.

Team Member, Defence at DSTL
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Application Advice:

Keep in mind the civil service competencies when answering the questions.

Interview Advice:

Don't panic, you aren't expected to know everything.

Team Member, Defence at DSTL
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Application Advice:

Don't worry too much about military knowledge; it's useful if you have some, but it's not expected, and can be picked up quickly. Scientific credentials are more important.

Application Advice:

Show how interested you are in your area.

Interview Advice:

Group activity - speak up, be heard.
Technical questions included in interview.

Team Member, Counter Terrorism & Security at DSTL
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Application Advice:

Sell yourself to show that you can work in a team, provide evidence of this. List modules associated with microelectronics, solid state physics.

Interview Advice:

Be prepared for questioning on anything related with Physics, especially solid state physics.

Application Advice:

Be aware there is a pay freeze with a maximum of 1% a year pay increase. Hard to get higher up and to do so is the equivalent of applying for a new job.

Interview Advice:

Prepare like any other interview, try and find information on the team you are being interviewed for (this may prove difficult depending on what the team does).

Project Engineer, Vehicles at DSTL
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Application Advice:

Have an interest in defence.

Team member, Security sciences at DSTL
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Application Advice:

Make sure that you keep up with current affairs, especially defence related things!
Make sure you have plenty of practical examples of things that you have done.

Analyst, PCS at DSTL
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Application Advice:

if you're going for a technical role, try to have a genuine interest in the area you apply for.

Interview Advice:

Try to be natural, most of the time they're just checking whether you'll be capable of handling the work and good at getting on with the rest of the team.

Scientist, Space systems at DSTL
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Application Advice:

Information about the work can be a bit vague in job adverts as there are so many different types of roles to fill, but the company sorts people into interviews for areas that they think will suit the candidate best. With this in mind it is best to shape your CV and application to the types of work you enjoy and are good at rather than having a generic CV you send to everyone.

Interview Advice:

Don't be afraid to say you don't know something about questions asked as there are a wide variety of disciplines that you could end up doing. You won't know exactly what the role is prior to joining. When you get to interview then the topics you have indicated in your CV are most likely to be relevant to the work you would be doing so don't put something on their that you don't know that much about, just because you think it will get you a better shot at the job.

Computer Scientist, Cyber at DSTL
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Application Advice:

Science/ Maths/ Engineering/ Programming backgrounds are always wanted/ needed. DSTl doesn't normally consider applicants unless you have a 2.1 degreee or higher.

DSTL currently works across three main sites (Portsdown West, Porton Down or Sevenoaks). Different jobs are based at different sites.

Interview Advice:

Asked if have any militatry background or knowledge as general questions. Particularily favour data analysis, expecially if you can prove that's what you've worked on for your dissertation.

Maritime Analyst, Underwater Analysis at DSTL
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Application Advice:

Be honest about your skills, identify key experiences and how you utilised skills, don't just describe what you've learned in education, explain how you can apply the skills learned.

Interview Advice:

Understand what the organisation does and do some research by looking at the website into what areas and fields are covered by the organisation.

Application Advice:

Having worked as a summer student/intern here helped at the interview stage as they try to put you back into the group you were in.

Graduate scientist, at DSTL
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Application Advice:

Read core defence documents before you join because it gives you a baseline understanding which aids work. E.g. "How Defence Works", "SDSR".
Be open minded. You will be put on projects which aren't your speciality or match your interests but you will be surprised at what you get into.

Interview Advice:

Be friendly and open during the interview and group work. They are not looking for strong leaders and people who know all there is to know about defence, but someone who will work hard and fit into the team.

Strategic Analyst, Strategic Analysis and Futures at DSTL
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Application Advice:

Don;t expect to be given opportunities you will have to find them and fight for them yourself. Also those opportunities are getting fewer due to budget constraints.

Interview Advice:

Be calm, know your subject area well and know the blurb on the website

Engineer, Research at DSTL
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Application Advice:

If interested in a specific area (e.g. Air warfare, Cyber) say so, as you do not apply to a specific team.

Interview Advice:

If applying for a technical/scientific role there will be technical questions about the area of work.

Graduate Scientist, Naval Systems at DSTL
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Application Advice:

None really, pretty standard application

Interview Advice:

Some of the technical questions revolved around fundamental science understanding and others were about general engineering principals

Graduate Engineer, Hypersonics at DSTL
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Application Advice:

Ensure you have a sound knowledge of current affairs and what could potentially happen in the future.

Interview Advice:

Core competency questions
Examples of work that you have done at University that used soft and hard analysis techniques.

Engineering Graduate, Land Battlespace at DSTL
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Application Advice:

Be honest and interesting.

Interview Advice:

Have some interesting questions to ask and read up on the industy and the company.

Graduate Engineer, Platforms at DSTL
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Application Advice:

Be very thorough on your application

Interview Advice:

There is a technical interview after the assessment day so make sure you come prepared for both.

Application Advice:

Have a very good CV, dont use the standard one the university trys to get you to use.

Interview Advice:

Be confident. Dress smart. Be yourself

Application Advice:

Look online at what Dstl is/has been doing
Speak to members of staff at recruitment fairs
Give examples to the application questions
Be honest

Interview Advice:

Find out a bit about Dstl
Know the job application - questions will be based around a lot of the words in that.
Be prepared to talk about your studies/ projects at Uni
Give examples of everything

Forensic Researcher, Forensic at DSTL
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Interview Advice:

You will be asked technical questions. Know your subject.

Forensic Researcher, FEL at DSTL
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Application Advice:

Make sure you understand the type of work you will be expected to undertake within your chosen department as some do no technical or scientific work.

Interview Advice:

Previous experiance in any industry is always useful as it gives you the opportunity to discuss the compentency question with an actual answer other than "when I was in Universirty". This helps seperate you from other graduates.

, LBSD at DSTL
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Application Advice:

Show passion for both your subject area and national security/defence. Be honest about your skills, there is always room for development here.

Graduate Technologist, Information Management at DSTL
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Application Advice:

Highlight any particular areas of interest and/or skills. With the broad range of work that is done here, it is likely that you will find a role suited to that skill/area of interest.

Interview Advice:

Research as much as you can about the area you'll be interviewed for, the interviews can get fairly technical. If you don't know an answer, don't be worried, the interviewers are just trying to grasp where you are on a knowledge base.

Forensic Researcher, Forensic Explosives Laboratory at DSTL
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Application Advice:

Most of the work is associated with the military, but they didn't seem to expect/require much military knowledge (I certainly didn't have any); more important was the technical aptitude with relation to the specific area you're interviewing for.

Interview Advice:

For me, the interview/assessment day consisted of three things; a written exercise, a group discussion exercise, and an interview.

Graduate Scientist, Signatures, Naval Systems Department at DSTL
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Application Advice:

Be prepared to learn on the job. Dstl works in a lot of niche areas, so it's unlikely you'll know it all straight out of University. There's an emphasis here on competency, honesty and team-working, so highlight those things in your application.

Interview Advice:

Standard interview advice books will help with the more general questions. In terms of technical knowledge, doing some revision in advance would be wise, but it's more the way you think that counts, rather than knowing all the answers. Be sure to tell or show the interviewers what you're thinking.

Engineer, Sensors and Countermeasures at DSTL
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Application Advice:

Check over your CV, answer truthfully and honestly

Interview Advice:

Revise technical knowledge suitable to role, think about/plan answers for behavioural questions such as how you (emphasis on "you") have lead a team, how you have been part of a team etc.

Scientist, Physical Sciences at DSTL
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Application Advice:

Research defence! Knowing about the area is very useful

Analysis, Force structure at DSTL
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Application Advice:

Customise your application, specifying why you want to work for DSTL, rather than using a generic CV/answers for all job applications.

Interview Advice:

Brush up on all elements your course as they ask a wide range of technical questions, whilst also trying to gauge your depth of knowledge on different areas.

Team Member, Security Sciences Department at DSTL
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Application Advice:

Managers will first look for a relevant degree, and make sure you have a mark of 2:1 or higher. They then check for any evidence of relevant activities you have done, and interest in their teams activities. Your CV probably won't get looked at directly until near the end of the application process, but that might only count for technical roles.

Interview Advice:

I went to two sets of interviews, this is not normal.
The first set was a standard assessment centre. A briefing on DSTL, followed by a group activity, a writing exercise and a competency interview. The interview consisted of questions about my projects at uni, my time planning skills and what I consider to be a job well done.
The second interview was purely technical. It was a discussion of any interesting projects I have done, both in and out of uni, and some questions related to the work to test my interest in the subject and to see if I had the right logic for the work. The only preparation possible for this is to re-read your project reports.

Team Member, Air Survivability at DSTL
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Application Advice:

Don't use generic CV templates. Tailor the application to the company.

Interview Advice:

Be natural, be confident
Admit when you don't know the answer to a technical question and ask for an explanation of how to get to the answer.

Team Member, Communications Reaserch at DSTL
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Application Advice:

To have good overall competencies
Do not use general CV competencies
Have a good, well written CV
Understand the job you are applying for

Interview Advice:

Prepare well
Know your CV
Know your competencies
Know your technical knowledge
Dont be afraid to say you don't know
Try to be relaxed and talk to the interviewers calmly and be as freindly as possible

Team member, Communications research at DSTL
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Application Advice:

1. Be prepared to use fundamental physics - you will be expected to remember/relearn it quickly and offer suggestions based on your calculations/reading.
2. Be methodical and detailed about documenting your work in as many ways as possible (lab book, spreadsheets, reports). This helps other people working on a project avoid duplication of efforts and you to track your contribution to your job.
3. If you believe you have a relevant knowledge or skill set make sure you show willing to involved where you can to help as many projects as possible. It will be appreciated if you can speed up a process.

Interview Advice:

1. Read about the company and the people they work for (the types of activities they do etc.) Be aware of what is going on in the the world of research generally, too.
2. If you are unsure of or can't remember an answer, be honest and try to explain your thought process as much as possible - the interviewers can then give you more information regarding what they want from you. If you don't speak it is difficult to know what the problem is.
3. Smile and try and keep your tone conversational. It is important you are willing to ask questions and discuss answers in your job, so show this skill in your interview!

Graduate, High Energy Physics at DSTL
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Application Advice:

Check your spelling on your application. Make it clear how your skills relate to the defence industry if possible, but don't make tenuous assertions.

Interview Advice:

Read up on current affairs and look to gain at least a little military awareness (issues facing defence etc.)

Senior Analyst, Historical Analysis at DSTL
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Interview Advice:

ask relevant questions

Application Advice:

Getting a degree is important, but it is also important to have gained experience. Use your time at university to do voluntary work. This is what helps stand out from other candidates.

Interview Advice:

Questions over experience were the major component. They asked for examples of a piece of work that did not go to plan and what I would do differently.

, Environment at DSTL
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Application Advice:

Read up on the DSTL site to find out what sort of work is done and convey what you have found out through the application questions.

Team Member, Security Sciences at DSTL
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Application Advice:

- be yourself, although they are looking for high calibre graduates they want people who will fit into their team.
- read up on DSTL what are their goals and abit of history
- normally you apply for a engineering or scientist position but if you get an

Project Engineer, Vehicle Assessment at DSTL
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Application Advice:

In your application, give examples of where you have shown the types of competencies/soft skills that you have but also be sure to highlight technical skills you have gained and/or other things you have done that will set you apart.

Interview Advice:

Come prepared with competency-based examples and re-read your application and CV as they will probably ask about these.
Don't worry if you are asked technical questions that you can't answer straight away - it is more about how you attempt to work out an answer with these questions.

Graduate Scientist, Sensors at DSTL
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Application Advice:

Make sure you have plenty of competencies ready (teamwork, leadership, etc.)

Interview Advice:

Don't panic and read up on areas applicable to your potential area and also about the company.

Graduate Analyst, Combat Air Analysis at DSTL
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Application Advice:

Look at the job description and pick out the buzzwords, then try and use them in your application.

Interview Advice:

The interview is the least stressful thing about the whole process, and it is was fairly relaxed. It was basically a nice chat about what are your interests, what are you good at and the normal competencies and what not. I am a mechanical engineer and know nothing about biology and the human body. So in my interview, when I had to answer questions about predicting injury and things to take into account when trying to predict injury I had no idea what I was saying, but I got the feeling it didn't matter if what I said was exactly right, it mattered if my thought process was right for the job. One thing to remember is that you won't be able to stroll into a job and be amazing (Well, I was but I am one of a kind). Everything you need to know you will be taught, you need the right thought processes and be able to work well in the team you are joining. Everyone here is happy to help and if you show that you don't know everything but you are willing to be taught you are a good clean slate. But at the same time, if you know stuff, wow them with it!! Also, I would recommend reading up on defence news and new tech and think about how it can be applied to the defence industry. Show that you have an interest. Lastly a top tip: Most interviews have a time limit, so talk quite a bit if you know the answer to a question, the more time you take up being amazing, the less time they have to ask you a question that will make you stumble. They normally have core questions and extra questions, the extra questions are the hard ones so keep on chatting!!

Graduate biomedical engineer, Biomedical Sciences at DSTL
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Application Advice:

Be specific about skills/training you have. Know why you want to apply to DSTL and research as much as you can about the company so you have an idea of your preferred department to be in. Look at the Civil Service Competency framework and tailor your application to cover the competencies relevant to the job advert.

Interview Advice:

Interviews are split into competency and technical aspects. Have answers prepared which cover all the competencies in the job advert, e.g. how have you demonstrated teamwork? Be specific about what you personally did within team etc.
Make sure you know any project/dissertation inside out. Be able to justify the way you conducted the project/research, plus anything you think could have been done differently.

Team Member, at DSTL
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Application Advice:

The company loves to see technical knowledge on an application

Interview Advice:

Conveying a real passion for defence and how you have applied your technical knowledge to give real benefit

Computer Scientist and Analyst, Policy and Capability Studies at DSTL
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Application Advice:

Make sure you can work in a politically driven environment.

Interview Advice:

Be confident in yourself.

Scientist, SSPA at DSTL
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Application Advice:

As it's in defence, I would look through some basic details of the MOD to get an understanding of how it generally works.

Interview Advice:

Be as open and honest as you can and revise your technical knowledge as there are some incredibly smart people who work here.

Signature Engineer, Defense at DSTL
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Application Advice:

Be concise
Apply your own relevent experience to each competency
Use any buzz words
Relate your examples to any organisational priorities / goals

Interview Advice:

Research the organisation in terms of business aims / objectives and try and tie your answers in where relevant
Don't be afraid to ask for clarity
Use some of the key competency buzz words
Prepare an example against each comptency

Crime Scientist, National Resilience and Protection at DSTL
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Application Advice:

Be enthusiastic need a passion to work in forensics.

Interview Advice:

Be confident in your answers. Take your time to answer the questions

Forensic Reasercher, FEL at DSTL
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Application Advice:

Make sure to include experiences that can directly be applied to the job, working as a team and managing people in a scientific environment.

Interview Advice:

Just be yourself, DSTL look for people who can slot into a team and add to it. Everything you do will be working as a team/unit with a variety of people.

Research Physicist, Energetics at DSTL
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Interview Advice:

Techinical, Competency, Debate and written assessment.

Application Advice:

I would advise those wishing to apply to any role at Dstl to do further research into what area of work they want to be involved in and be technically well-informed about that area. When completing the application form, use the 'STAR' system to describe types of work you have been involved with and the details of which you will be able to remember during the interview process.

Interview Advice:

The interview questions I had mostly tended to start off with competency based questions and delved deeper into very technical aspects of the work I have been involved with. Completing an industrial placement year personally helped me to be more aware of technical applications of electronics engineering, which I believe came out in the answers I gave during the interview process.

Graduate EMC Systems Engineer, EMC at DSTL
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Application Advice:

Keep within the word limits on the competency questions and use a mixture of Uni, work & extra curricular examples.

Interview Advice:

Review your final year project and modules for technical questions. Competency questions and exercises are the usual team working, deadlines and prioritising, communication, etc.

Graduate Engineer, Security sciences department at DSTL
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Application Advice:

Sell yourself but don't lie. You will be caught out!

Application Advice:

Learn the competencies and use the STAR structure for your answers and be honest.

Interview Advice:

Prepare as above(!).

Associate Project Manager, at DSTL
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Application Advice:

Do your research. The organisation covers so many areas it really helps to try and look at things that people have worked on here in the past and where Dstl have been in the press.

Interview Advice:

Remember to brush up on your Uni modules and be prepared to talk about any practical work you have done.

Graduate Analyst, PCS at DSTL
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Application Advice:

Look at the job profile to establish what the requirements are - both in terms of technical skills but also behaviours.
Make sure you use examples that give you the most evidence of these skills.

Interview Advice:

What's currently the biggest challenge for UK defence?

Graduate Analyst, at DSTL
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Application Advice:

Do your research.
You will be asked questions about your technical skills & degree but also asked to give examples of team working, managing priorities and deadlines and of what you've done for your professional development.

Interview Advice:

Sometimes you can be asked quite deep technical questions - the interviewers don't necessarily expect you to know the answer, but want to see how logical your thought process is & whether you would know where to go to in order to gain information. They will keep probing to see how deep your technical knowledge is.

Graduate Scientist, Biomedical Sciences at DSTL
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Interview Advice:

Why do you want to work in the Defence industry?
Why do you want to work for DSTL?

Cyber Graduate, Cyber at DSTL
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Application Advice:

Refresh on your modules & final year project for interview.
Be enthusiastic about your technical area & interests.

Interview Advice:

1/2 day Assessment centre:
> Online test beforehand
> Competency & technical questions at interview
> Usual group exercise to assess team working & communication
> Written test - completed on laptops

Application Advice:

Apply against the requirements for your selected role
Include notes on any computer modelling experience (not an absolute requirement - I didn't have any)
Make sure you are to-the-point and keep away from large blocks of text where possible.
Do some research into the military and their relationship with Dstl.

Interview Advice:

Go to 'The Student Room' forums for good advice.
Do not try to be anyone but yourself.
Think about answers to certain questions before you go (see the above forum and the information that Dstl will send you prior to the interviews).
Do not be afraid to say 'I don't know'.
Try to smile and be enthusiastic.

Graduate Analyst, Complex Weapons at DSTL
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Application Advice:

If you are given a choice of roles try and find out who you would be working with for those roles and find out what the job really is about.

Team Member, System Studies at DSTL
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Application Advice:

Be succinct, provide evidence of core skills and competencies

Interview Advice:

Know as much as you can about defence, and wider politics. Make sure you know the required skills and competencies for the advertised role. Be friendly and not too formal.

Application Advice:

The application process has changed considerably since i joined and now has an assessment process. From what I have heard from friends applying you will need to be patient as the process is somewhat long.

Interview Advice:

Read the job specification and the civil service framework which is available online.

Application Advice:

Read about defence, but be prepared to work in unexpected areas.

Graduate analyst, Air and Weapons Systems at DSTL
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Application Advice:

Scientific background, willingness to engage with and be interested in science is valued very highly.

Interview Advice:

Know some military lingo and be up to date on current events.

Team Member, Sensors at DSTL
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Application Advice:

Ensure you do your research on DSTL as an organisation and understand the role which it plays in MOD and wider government.
Ensure that you are technically competent - I had a particularly gruelling technical interview so be prepared!

Interview Advice:

Be prepared for a long interview which consists of multiple stages. Although I think it has changed format now, when I was interviewed I had a combined competency (HR) interview and a technical interview with no break between them and lasted over 2 and a half hours!

Research Scientist, Detection Department at DSTL
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Application Advice:

Take care to answer all competancy questions carefully, as progress of your application is dependent on these. HR review soft skills and select your application based on this before passing it to technical staff to assess your academic acheivements.

Interview Advice:

Prepare by doing some basic research into the function of the military and MoD.

Application Advice:

When I applied, it was an online form, an online test, and an interview with a presentation in it. I think nowadays it's a full-blown assessment centre!

Interview Advice:

I've heard from people doing the interviewing that the candidates that do worst are the ones that have to be constantly prompted for response. Like getting blood from a stone! Try to be sociable, and be able to talk freely about your past experience that makes you ideal for the role. Also, make sure you know your final year project backwards - and please don't just hand them a folder, saying "it's all in here" (yes, apparently someone actually did this!)

Cyber Scientist (Graduate), Cyber Group at DSTL
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Application Advice:

Be succinct, don't ramble.
Give enough evidence to show that you have the competencies required for the role - any unusal examples will make you stand out so use them!

Interview Advice:

Be confident, seem like you want to be there!
Do your research before you arrive - come prepared to ask questions as well as answer them.
The interviewers want to see that you are suitable for the role, but they also want to see that you are able to fit into the pre-existing team, so be yourself!

Maritime Scientist, Maritime Systems Engineering at DSTL
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Application Advice:

As with any job, take the time to make your CV look tidy and legible. This is the first time anyone knows of you and it creates an initial impression.

Don't be put off because you think some of your grades aren't good enough.

Be sure to include hobbies and interests.

You may be asked to give a technical presentation at the interview. Start thinking now on what you would want to do it on. In most cases, it this will likely be your final year project at university.

If you have had previous SC or DV clearance, mention it.

Interview Advice:

Research the defence industry and current events, particularily those in your field of choice. You will be asked.

Know your CV, you may be asked about what is on it. Particularily any hobbies and interests.

When it comes to classic "competency" questions, try, where possible, to have examples that are beyond "my project at university".

Ensure you have a good understanding of your chosen field, it is highly likely you will be asked a number of questions to gauge your knowhow (whether this is technical or process related depends on the job you're trying to get)

Do not try any "bull", the folk here are experienced and wil see right through it. It's better to say that you don't know.

Ask the folk here about what they think of Dstl and what its like to work for them.

At the end of the interview, ask them about what they feel you were weak on. This shows that you care and want to improve. Dstl are very big on personal development.

Analyst/Sotware Developer, Air Platform Survivability at DSTL
Read the full review »

Interview Advice:

be yourself

Analyst, Land at DSTL
Read the full review »

Application Advice:

Be yourself, but stress the importance of science/engineering to you.

Interview Advice:

Don't be frightened to ask for clarification on questions.

Forensic Researcher, Forensic Science at DSTL
Read the full review »

Application Advice:

Learn about the defence industry as a whole such as the MOD, various military branches and industry leaders.

Interview Advice:

Honestly just be yourself, nothing different from any other interview

Team Member, Land BattleSpace at DSTL
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Application Advice:

University-level knowledge is not required - the whole application process is looking at how university has shaped the way you think about a problem and how it has shaped you as a person as they want to employ people who they are going to get along with!

Interview Advice:

Have some awareness of military capabilities; in my interview a very basic knowledge of physics was required but the rest was testing you to see how you think about a problem

Radar Scientist, Radar Modelling and Analysis at DSTL
Read the full review »

Application Advice:

Make sure you show an interest in the military, and how S&T can be used to help. Read through the website first!

Graduate Scientist, Material Science at DSTL
Read the full review »

Interview Advice:

Take time to research the area you want to work in - because the work is classified you won't know what you'll be working on until you start which can make it tricky to research but it is appreciated when you at least know about the general area which you're hoping to work in.

Graduate Modeller, Physical Sciences at DSTL
Read the full review »

Application Advice:

Be confident in your abilities and open minded.

Interview Advice:

Do research on the area you are interviewing for and make sure you have up to date knowledge.

Graduate Engineer, Ballistics at DSTL
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Application Advice:

Developing an awareness of the military and information on SDSR is useful and shows an interest in the area.

Graduate psychologist, at DSTL
Read the full review »

Application Advice:

The company will give driven individuals the opportunity to succeed and achieve career growth; if you put in the effort, you will be rewarded.

The flexible working arrangement allows you to take three days off per month as flexi time; which when cumulated annually is a significant benefit. It also allows certain flexibility on the hours you work each week i.e. if you want to take a Friday off.. you can, or if you want to start late, you can.

Interview Advice:

If you get past the early stages through to the technical interview; this interview focuses less on specific technical competencies relating to your academic qualifications and more on your ability as an individual to be critical, including evidence of your approach towards solving problems.

Focus on why you are wanting to work for the organisation. I was driven to place my effort in an organisation that has a real benefit to people i.e. our armed forces. Also focus on your flexibility as an individual; within the company you will be expected to work in a variety of different teams and areas, so evidencing your ability to adapt to new situations quickly is important.

Analyst, Logistics at DSTL
Read the full review »

Application Advice:

Make sure you have passion for the public sectors work. e.g. defence.
Have previous industry experience.

Interview Advice:

Know workplace procedures as well as technical knowledge. Thousands of grads have the technical knowledge from their degree, not so many know the way a working lab operates.

Forensic Researcher, Forensic Explosvie Laboratory at DSTL
Read the full review »

Application Advice:

Make sure you are happy working with others, and are not overly passionate about politics (you are not allowed to be a member of a political party while working here). Be adaptable to different people's social styles. Be confident in your own ability - there are many stereotypical geniuses here, but everyone brings something new to the table.

Interview Advice:

Reading a standard 'how to prepare for an interview' book really helped. Think of times when you have worked in a team, faced conflict, managed your time effectively and anything you may have done that made a lasting impact on a project.

Graduate Engineer, RF Countermeasures Group at DSTL
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Application Advice:

Have some work experience (it took many attempts to get a job without much).

Interview Advice:

Make a note of the competencies in the job description and how you fulfill them. There's an interest in both technical knowhow and soft skills (presentation, etc.) Experience of "customer facing" work is usually appreciated. Have at least some knowledge of the military and current affairs (read up on what the military has done recently, it may come up).

Analyst, Logistics at DSTL
Read the full review »

Application Advice:

Be confident, provide practical examples and prepare for a technical base.

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Application Advice:

You need to be interested in your research area and have good people skills. The way people are managed and research is organised is a critical part of the business function. You should also have an interest in defence/military, which can vary from understanding international relations behind defence activities, to being interested in specific capabilities like how to make better tanks, planes and automobiles.

Interview Advice:

Know your competencies, and explain them using the STAR acronym. Also, be prepared to answer some of your areas of interest may apply to defence, which can take some creative thinking. Be aware of current events, how the future of defence is changing and even where are current campaigns (Afghanistan - I've heard of failed interviewees forgetting that!)

Analyst (social scientist), Psychology at DSTL
Read the full review »

Application Advice:

Think about how you approach, de-construct and solve problems rather than all the 'facts' you might have learnt during your degree. Interviewees are much more interested to see how you think than what you know.

Interview Advice:

Senior Analyst, Policy and Capability Studies Dept at DSTL
Read the full review »

Best:

You work for the MOD.
The people there are brilliant.
Immense opportunity to learn.
Opportunities to learn, experience and get involved with so many activities work related and not.

Worst:

Pay isn't the best. But other aspects make up for that.

Platform Systems Division Graduate, Platform Systems at DSTL
Read the full review »

Best:

Flexibility

Worst:

Communication

Graduate Scientist, Platform Systems at DSTL
Read the full review »

Best:

Support and training
Opportunities to explore and travel
Flexible working

Graduate Engineer, Platform Systems at DSTL
Read the full review »

Best:

Good level of technical work and surprisingly flexible considering the type of work.

Computer Scientist, CIS at DSTL
Read the full review »

Best:

Work/life balance

Worst:

No northern sites

Best:

Lost of opportunities for interesting and varied work. A lot of time out the office if you want it.

Worst:

Low pay.

Graduate Engineer, Platform Systems at DSTL
Read the full review »

Best:

The unique and challenging work

Worst:

The hot desking policy

Graduate, Counter Terrorism and Security at DSTL
Read the full review »

Best:

Flexible working hours

Worst:

Struggle to get time with senior staff to gain knowledge

Analyst, Defence, Security & Analysis at DSTL
Read the full review »

Best:

At the forefront of UK defence research and technology.

Worst:

Whilst everyone shares knowledge where they can, work can overlap with other projects and sometimes others do not wish to, or more often can't, share their findings.

Graduate Defence and Security Analyst, DSA at DSTL
Read the full review »

Best:

Keen to give you opportunities to try different things and to help you develop. Overall people enjoy their job and want to help you and help themselves succeed. A good working culture.

Worst:

Processes

Graduate Scientist, Platform Systems Division at DSTL
Read the full review »

Best:

Prides itself on scientific excellence

Worst:

The pay

Cell Biologist, CBR at DSTL
Read the full review »

Best:

Positive influence in government.

Worst:

We design and develop weapons of death.

Scientist, Policing and Security Group at DSTL
Read the full review »

Best:

Doing invaluable work to support the Armed Forces of the United Kingdom.

Worst:

Nobody has heard of us.

Graduate Engineer, Platform Systems at DSTL
Read the full review »

Best:

Flexibility and range of work opportunities

Worst:

Civil service, priorities can change quickly.

Graduate Engineer, Platform Systems at DSTL
Read the full review »

Best:

Friendly, supportive environment.

Worst:

Can be slow moving.

Platform Systems Graduate, Platform Systems Division at DSTL
Read the full review »

Best:

Really interesting mix of people with a variety of different skills working together to solve important problems

Worst:

Pay isn't great

Wargame Analyst, DSA at DSTL
Read the full review »

Best:

Science we do makes real-world differences. Fulfilling.
Flexible hours.

Worst:

Work is controlled by taxpayers money mostly so because work needs to be 100% worthwhile, there can sometimes be a lack of things to do.

Forensics and Identity Team member, CTS at DSTL
Read the full review »

Best:

As above, very trusting, relaxed and flexible place to work

Worst:

Pay is generally below market rates
A part of the organisation at another site conducts animal testing

Scientist, Space Systems at DSTL
Read the full review »

Best:

Work life balance offered.

Worst:

Few people know what we are and what we do and somewhat (correctly) assume that we only do Science & Tech and not analysis.

Policy Analyst, Defence and Security Analysis at DSTL
Read the full review »

Best:

Very friendly, nice working environment, Loads of opportunities everywhere. Fantastic support such as a new starters group to help you settle in to the job.

Worst:

Lower pay than in industry.

Graduate, Counter Terrorism and Security at DSTL
Read the full review »

Best:

Lots of funding for training and an atmosphere where training is encouraged.

Worst:

Senior management often do not interact or listen to those at a lower level.

Analytical Chemist, EAG at DSTL
Read the full review »

Best:

Relaxed, open plan work environment. Extensive training opportunities. Pool cars available for commuting between sites. Diversity in project opportunities. Allows employees to easily move around within the company to different roles or go on secondments.

Worst:

Lower salary than industry - but I'd rather have a job I love for lower pay than the other way around.

Platform Systems Graduate, Platform Systems at DSTL
Read the full review »

Best:

Relaxed working enviroment and interesting work

Worst:

Not the best pay and can be difficult to see progression

Graduate Engineer, Platform Systems at DSTL
Read the full review »

Best:

- very supportive of good work-life balance
- good benefits package
- care for individuals

Worst:

- risk-averse (in terms of H&S)
- lots of "processes" to get anything done

EPM Scientist, CIS at DSTL
Read the full review »

Best:

Full flexible hours

Worst:

Flexi-desking can be frustrating. Pay is poor compared to other government/industry departments

Physicist, PLSD at DSTL
Read the full review »

Best:

People, Environment sand flexible working

Worst:

Lack of promotion and pay rise possibilities, low pay and lack of progression possible without moving into management

Graduate Engineer, Counter Terrorism ans Security at DSTL
Read the full review »

Best:

The flexible working arrangements. Full flexi-time is provided and it allows much greater freedom to manage your time and life outside of work.

Worst:

The not so competitive salaries as you move up the ranks.

Graduate Engineer, Platform Systems at DSTL
Read the full review »

Best:

They want to invest in you as an employee

Worst:

We are constraint to the governments budget

Scientist, Counter Terrorism and Security at DSTL
Read the full review »

Best:

Work life balance and interesting work

Worst:

Pay is poor

DSTL
Read the full review »

Best:

The flexible working.

Worst:

The low salary in comparison to the same level jobs in different organisations.

CTS at DSTL
Read the full review »

Best:

The ability to work from home with flexible working.

Worst:

The amount of paperwork that needs to be filled in.

Team Member, Counter Terrorism and Security at DSTL
Read the full review »

Best:

Flexible working

Forensic Researcher, FEL at DSTL
Read the full review »

Best:

The organisation delivers meaningful research and development for government, and is one of the few places where science and defence are merged.

Worst:

Progression can sometimes depend on the quality/interest of your team leader.

DSTL
Read the full review »

Worst:

Yearly planning takes too long and means staff are underutilised for the beginning of the year.

DSTL
Read the full review »

Worst:

Poor management

Team member, Counter Terrorism and Security at DSTL
Read the full review »

Best:

The people I work with
The variety and cool work
Really nice management

Worst:

Serious pay gap with MoD and more so behind industry

Systems Engineer, Systems Engineering at DSTL
Read the full review »

Best:

Day to day work can change easily if you want it to

A lot of problem solving and innovation is encouraged

Great benefits such as Flexi-time and Training opportunities

Worst:

Time management is important as every hour must be accounted to a project

Team Member, ECM at DSTL
Read the full review »

Best:

great working culture, great people, lots of support and opportunities.

Worst:

seems to be a general dissatisfaction with salary and career progression, which is being transmitted to me despite not being bothersome at this time in my life.

Scientist, CIS at DSTL
Read the full review »

Best:

Interesting work at an international company.

Worst:

Pay...

DSTL
Read the full review »

Best:

flexibility
interesting work

Worst:

poor salary compared to the wider field

Best:

It's cool I guess

Worst:

Bureaucracy

Graduate Scientist, CIS at DSTL
Read the full review »

Best:

Lots of opportunities to do different things

Worst:

The bureaucracy

Forensic Researcher, FEL at DSTL
Read the full review »

Best:

Amazing benefits package.

Worst:

Can be slow to adapt.

Graduate Scientist/Engineer, Platform Systems at DSTL
Read the full review »

Best:

Flexible working, the flexi-time and relaxed management means that I can work when I want and where I want (either from home or from any of the three sites).

Worst:

The lack of a DSTL wide approach to the graduate scheme, graduates in different groups/departments get completely different experiences, however, I would have liked the opportunity to travel between groups/teams and experience their differences. This, in turn, would make me more likely to want to stay/return to dstl in the future.

Graduate Scientist, CTS at DSTL
Read the full review »

Best:

Complexity and variety of work undertaken by the organisation.

Worst:

Lack of stability, in objectives and goals/ changing goal posts and wasted resources on procurement etc.

Separation of senior management from the lower levels of the organisation.

Team Member, at DSTL
Read the full review »

Best:

Flexible working hours

Worst:

Excruciatingly poor pay compared to industry

DSTL
Read the full review »

Best:

The benefits package, flexible working and the varied work.

Worst:

Low salary compared to industry.

DSTL
Read the full review »

Best:

They try very hard to be flexible and give a decent work life balance to their employees.

Worst:

Very low pay for the amount of qualifications required for the work, as well as slow career progression.

DSTL
Read the full review »

Best:

Attitude towards flexible working, type of work that is done.

Worst:

Reliance on government decisions.

DSTL
Read the full review »

Best:

Prestigious company and people have a lot of respect for you when they know where you work.

Worst:

You can't always talk about exciting things you have done.

DSTL
Read the full review »

Best:

Flexible working time. Interesting work.

Worst:

Poor salary, bureaucracy.

DSTL
Read the full review »

Best:

Breadth of work we carry out which isn't limited to just defence but also concerns other parts of government.
Collaborative working environment.
Flexible working/opportunity to work from home.
Opportunities to take part in trials activities.

Worst:

A seeming lack of progression
Difficulty in enticing new starters due to low pay.

Graduate Scientist, Platform Systems Division at DSTL
Read the full review »

Best:

Work/life balance.
Challenging work.

Worst:

A lot of process and bureaucracy to achieve minor tasks such a low-level procurement.

Engineer, CT&S at DSTL
Read the full review »

Best:

The Smart working, the ability to work from home and flexible working hours

Graduate, Cyber and Information Systems at DSTL
Read the full review »

Best:

Work life balance
Involved in worthwhile and important work.

Worst:

Civil service pay
Can be bureaucratic at times

Graduate Analyst, Defence Security Analysis at DSTL
Read the full review »

Best:

Encourage professional development and training in the areas you want to learn

Worst:

Management can sometimes seem disconnected

Graduate Analyst, DSA at DSTL
Read the full review »

Best:

Flexi-Time, Work/Life balance, Freedom to choose/lead own Career path.

Worst:

Pay

Graduate, Platform Systems at DSTL
Read the full review »

Best:

Flexibility, the people, office atmosphere

Worst:

Poor communication

Best:

Flexible working is the best thing about the company because you have the option to work from home or arrange your work day or week to suit your lifestyle.

Worst:

Low pay and disorganised management.

Research Scientist – Graduate, Explosives Detection at DSTL
Read the full review »

Best:

As part of government, Dstl set an example of flexibility in working arrangements
Investing in new technology

Worst:

Poor management of change

Scientist, CTS at DSTL
Read the full review »

Best:

Good range of work

Best:

The company looks after their employees, with good benefits and offering plenty of training to extend your skills.

Worst:

The amount of politics and paperwork involved.

Best:

Lots of effort to give employees a good work life balance

Worst:

Process required to get work done is often lengthy and unnecessarily complex

Graduate – Engineer, at DSTL
Read the full review »

Best:

Flexibility and the people

Worst:

Pay

Graduate Engineer, Platform Systems at DSTL
Read the full review »

Best:

Interesting work

Worst:

Very poor salary and benefits

Graduate – Team Member, at DSTL
Read the full review »

Best:

The flexible working hours allow a good work/life balance

Worst:

The wage difference between civil service and similar private sector is noticeable and unlikely to change for the better.

Scientist, Explosive detection at DSTL
Read the full review »

Best:

Working at the cutting edge of science

Worst:

nothing

Graduate – Team Member, Sensing and Detection at DSTL
Read the full review »

Best:

The important work it does.

Worst:

Our work isnt' appreciated as much as it should be.

Best:

Freedom to try new tasks and take ownership of work

Worst:

Low wages and constant initiatives from senior management that look good on paper but are just a nuisance in reality.

Graduate – Survivability Engineer, Platform Survivability at DSTL
Read the full review »

Best:

The level of training and support offered to every individual as well as the company's willingness to allow you to control your own working hours giving you a good work/home balance.

Worst:

Communication of decisions made by higher ups is poorly communicated at times.

Graduate Mechanical Engineer, at DSTL
Read the full review »

Best:

The inclusivity and flexibility of the work. The organisation is extremely established in supporting equality and diversity and is very open minded when it comes to it's employees needs. Therefore if you have a specific requirement to work-from-home or to manipulate your hours to suits your lifestyle, they encourage you to be happy.

Worst:

The organisation is quite large, and therefore you can sometimes feel like a drop in the ocean. Especially if you are new to the organisation and have only completed an undergraduate degree, it can seem quite daunting at times.

Graduate – Analyst, Defence Security Analysis at DSTL
Read the full review »

Best:

The flexible work and balance provided

Best:

Providing best support and give you an opportunity for training.

Worst:

unstability at the moment due to moving to salisbury.

Best:

- Flexible working
- Interesting work

Worst:

#NAME?

Graduate, Cyber and Information Systems at DSTL
Read the full review »

Best:

The staff and the flexible working

Worst:

The pay

Best:

Responsibility

Worst:

bureaucracy

Best:

Flexible working hours

Worst:

Split over 3 sites, this will be changing though

Physicist, Semiconductors at DSTL
Read the full review »

Best:

Flexi time! Being able to get to work and leave work whenever you want is fantastic!

Worst:

Pay could be better, it's easy to forget you're working on the taxpayer's pound as it were.

Graduate Scientist, Platform Systems at DSTL
Read the full review »

Best:

Benefits package and work/life balance, support from the company

Worst:

Focus on the S+T side of the organisation which gives the impression that softer analysis such as geo-political projects are not as relevant and will eventually be cut. Constantly changing which seems to always disadvantage some people, feeling that PDW tends to get the worst deal.

Best:

Working with highly skilled colleagues on cutting edge science

Worst:

Secrecy

Graduate Scientist, Cyber and Information Systems at DSTL
Read the full review »

Best:

Willing to invest in staff development.

Worst:

So much Bureaucracy.

Graduate, Counter Terrorism & Security at DSTL
Read the full review »

Best:

Strong vision and leadership. Visible board of directors.

Worst:

Pay compared to other companies. Not all decisions are to everyone's liking.

Scientist, at DSTL
Read the full review »

Best:

Colleagues and work, work is interesting and the colleagues are friendly and fun to work with.

Worst:

Pay/career progression. Is both slow and heavily limited dependent on how long you've been with the company.