Senior Research Associate in Biogeochemistry
A unique opportunity exists for a Senior Research Associate in Biogeochemistry to join a multidisciplinary consortium of researchers working on the UKRI REFRESH project, which will be researching the role of dissolved organic matter as a nutrient resource in freshwater ecosystems. This offers an exciting prospect for a suitably qualified applicant to develop their skills in understanding the role of dissolved organic matter in freshwater ecosystems, and the ways in which the biota access and respond to this material, using groundbreaking multidisciplinary research approaches developed by the team.
The role-holder will be supported by our Specialist Technician in Biogeochemistry, and will collaborate with the principal investigator and co-investigator teams at the University of Bristol and UKCEH to:
1. Help design, set up and conduct experiments to evaluate how dissolved organic molecules of varying character are accessed, taken up and utilized in freshwater ecosystems.
2. Run a sequence of isotope dosing experiments in field mesocosm experiments across the UK under the supervision of the PI, with support from a Specialist Technician.
3. Work closely with a dedicated Specialist Technician in Biogeochemistry to deliver the field experiments and analytical outcomes from this element of the programme.
4. Use analytical approaches including chromatographic and mass spectrometric methods as well as stable isotope (13C and 15N) approaches to explore direct as well as indirect (consumption) transfer of labelled materials by both autotrophs and heterotrophs.
5. Lead the writing and publication of a suite of journal articles reporting the outcomes from the organic matter and isotope chemistry elements of the programme.
6. Collaborate with other members of the research team on multidisciplinary publications on the combined programme outcomes.
7. Work with a wide stakeholder community to explore opportunities for knowledge exchange with both academic and non-academic audiences.
You will have a degree in a relevant subject (environmental science, environmental chemistry, environmental biology, ecology or related subject), a PhD in environmental biology or chemistry, and significant postdoctoral experience in biogeochemistry research using advanced analytical techniques. Experience in isotope analyses in environmental media, experimental design and data analysis techniques is also required, including in mesocosm-based research. If you have clear and concise writing skills, and are keen to publish your work, you will fit our needs well. We will also be looking for an excellent communicator with strong interpersonal and teamwork skills, as we will be collaborating within the project team, across disciplines and institutions.
Minimum Requirements:
* Degree in a relevant field (e.g., environmental science, environmental biology, environmental chemistry, ecology or related subjects).
* PhD in environmental biology or chemistry.
* Significant postdoctoral experience in biogeochemistry research using advanced analytical techniques and mesocosm-based research.
* Proficiency in isotope analyses for environmental media, experimental design, and data analysis techniques.
* Strong publication record, with experience in writing articles for high-impact academic journals.
* Excellent written communication skills with a passion for publishing research outcomes.
* Strong interpersonal and teamwork skills, with the ability to collaborate across the team, disciplines, institutions, and with key stakeholders involved in the REFRESH programme.
* Flexibility in working hours to adapt to the requirements of the role.
* Full UK driving licence.
For informal enquiries please contact: Professor Penny Johnes, penny.johnes@bristol.ac.uk
Contract type: Open-ended with fixed funding until 30/09/2029
Work pattern: Full-time
Grade: J
School/Unit: School of Geographical Sciences
This advert will close at 23:59 UK time on 06/01/2025
The University of Bristol aims to be a place where everyone feels able to be themselves and do their best in an inclusive working environment where all colleagues can thrive and reach their full potential.
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