At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead research on the critically endangered European eel's ecology and demography.
- Company: Join Bournemouth University, a vibrant hub for innovative research and education.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive salary, generous holiday, flexible working, and great staff perks.
- Other info: Collaborative environment with excellent growth opportunities and a commitment to inclusivity.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on conservation while advancing your research career.
- Qualifications: PhD in fish ecology or related field; experience in fieldwork and lab analysis preferred.
The predicted salary is between 29700 - 36300 £ per year.
The European eel is critically endangered, and generating new understandings on its continental life stages is crucial to the recovery of populations. As Postdoctoral Research Assistant on the externally funded CRISIS project, you will lead research uncovering the ecology and demography of glass eels and elvers in rivers across southwest England.
You will lead fieldwork and laboratory research investigating eel dispersal, trophic ecology, age and growth, and parasitology. Using otolith microstructure, you will assess age and growth rates, while stable isotope analysis will help reveal the trophic relationships and movements of glass eels and elvers entering these rivers. The role also offers opportunities to support project delivery, coordinating research and project management tasks with internal colleagues and external partners.
You will hold a PhD (or be close to completion) in fish ecology, aquatic biology or a closely related discipline. You will be capable of completing fieldwork in lowland rivers and upper estuaries, and detailed laboratory analyses, ideally with experience in otolith microstructure and stable isotope methods, and hold a driving licence. A strong publication record appropriate to your career stage is advantageous, alongside excellent organisational skills and the ability to work both independently and collaboratively.
This post is available on a fixed-term basis until 31/03/2029.
The Faculty of Health, Environment and Medical Sciences is a vibrant and innovative environment containing 3 academic Schools: the School of Health and Care; the School of Allied Health and Exercise Science; and the School of Life and Environmental Sciences. This particular post sits within the School of Life and Environmental Sciences, which offers a broad range of hands‑on, practical courses across Archaeology, Biology, Ecology, Environmental Science, Forensic Science, Geography, Biomedical and Medical Sciences, as well as the Physician Associate programme. Our broad spectrum of disciplines foster collaboration and innovation, with cutting‑edge research that delivers real‑world impact across both environmental and health sectors.
At Bournemouth University, our motto is Discere Mutari Est - To learn is to change. Guided by our BU2035 strategy, we are building a future‑focused university that empowers people to thrive, embraces innovation, and creates lasting impact through education, research and partnerships. Our success is driven by our people. We are committed to creating an inclusive and supportive environment where everyone feels they belong, can develop their potential and contribute to work that makes a difference.
We are committed to attracting, developing and retaining talented people who share our values of being collaborative and inclusive, innovative and creative, empowering and ambitious, and responsible and transformative. Flexible working and job share arrangements will be considered to support a healthy work‑life balance.
More than just a job, working at BU gives you the opportunity to make a meaningful impact, alongside access to a fantastic range of staff benefits.
- PAY – a competitive salary with opportunities for pay progression
- PENSION – a valuable defined benefit pension with generous employer contributions
- HOLIDAY – Annual leave entitlement of 30 days plus bank holidays and winter closure (pro rata if part time)
- WORK LIFE BALANCE – flexible working arrangements including opportunities for hybrid working and flexitime (role dependant)
You will also have access to a wide range of voluntary benefits:
- Health & Wellbeing: Employee assistance programme, dental care scheme, health cash plan
- Financial & Discounts: Discounts including a reduction of fees for family members who study at BU
- Travel: Cycle to work scheme, secure bike stores, showers and lockers, free bus travel between campuses, discounted bus travel
- Sports & Activities: Sport BU has a wide range of activities which staff can access
- Family: Enhanced maternity, paternity and adoption leave, on‑site nursery with discounts for BU staff
- Modern, vibrant campus locations: Bright and flexible work and meeting spaces, with on‑site food outlets and coffee shops
Post Doctoral Research Assistant (Fixed-Term) - CRISIS Project in England employer: Bournemouth University
Bournemouth University is an exceptional employer, dedicated to fostering a vibrant and inclusive work culture that prioritises employee wellbeing and professional growth. As a Gym & Duty Manager, you will benefit from a competitive salary, generous holiday entitlement, and flexible working arrangements, all while contributing to a community-focused environment that encourages teamwork and innovation in the sport and fitness sector. With access to a range of voluntary benefits and modern facilities, working at Bournemouth University offers a fulfilling career path where your contributions truly make a difference.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Post Doctoral Research Assistant (Fixed-Term) - CRISIS Project in England
✨Explore University Career Fairs
University career fairs are gold mines, especially for biology roles. We should hit up these events, connect with potential employers like Bournemouth University, and get the inside scoop on full-time opportunities. Plus, it's a fab way to showcase our passion for the field!
✨Join Biology Communities
Get involved in local biology associations or online forums—these are great for networking and hearing about job openings before they hit the mainstream. Engaging in meaningful discussions can help us stand out and get noticed by hiring managers in the biology sector.
✨Attend Industry Conferences
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✨Show Off Your Research Skills
When you land that interview, be ready to flaunt your research experience and practical skills. Discuss any lab work, projects, or internships that demonstrate your expertise in biology. We want to make sure the interviewers see exactly why we're a great fit for the role at Bournemouth University.
We think you need these skills to ace Post Doctoral Research Assistant (Fixed-Term) - CRISIS Project in England
Some tips for your application 🫡
Showcase Your Lab Skills:In the biology field, it's super important to highlight any relevant lab skills. Make sure to include techniques you’ve mastered, like PCR or chromatography, right in your CV. This helps us see your hands-on experience and how you can contribute at Bournemouth University.
Tailor Your Cover Letter with Passion:When writing your cover letter, let your enthusiasm for biology shine through! Share specific examples of projects or research that fuel your passion. It’s the perfect way to convey your motivation and fit for the role of Post Doctoral Research Assistant (Fixed-Term) - CRISIS Project at Bournemouth University.
Include Relevant Certifications:If you’ve got any certifications related to biology—like Good Laboratory Practice (GLP) or even specific software for data analysis—be sure to mention those. They can really set you apart from other applicants and show us you’re dedicated to your professional development.
Highlight Team Projects and Communication Skills:Biology often involves collaboration, so don’t shy away from mentioning any team projects you've worked on in your CV. Emphasise how you communicated findings or contributed in group settings. This gives us insight into how you’d fit into our team at Bournemouth University.
How to prepare for a job interview at Bournemouth University
✨Brush Up on Your Technical Knowledge
Get ready to dive deep into the scientific concepts related to your field! For a biology role, you'll likely face questions about experimental design, data analysis techniques, and possibly even lab protocols. Make sure you're clear on your coursework and any practical experiences you've had.
✨Show Off Your Lab Skills
Hands-on experience can make or break an interview in biology. Be prepared to discuss your previous lab work, including techniques like PCR, gel electrophoresis, or microscopy. Bring a portfolio of your lab reports or relevant projects to really impress the hiring team at Bournemouth University.
✨Communicate Your Passion for Biology
As this is a full-time position, employers at Bournemouth University are looking for someone who is not just qualified, but truly enthusiastic about biology. Be ready to share specific moments or projects that ignited your interest in the field. A personal story can really set you apart!
✨Prepare for Behavioural Questions
Don’t underestimate the power of behavioural questions! Expect to discuss situations from your studies or internships where you showed teamwork, problem-solving, or conflict resolution. This is your chance to show that you're not only a great biologist but also a great colleague!
