At a Glance
- Tasks: Join a team to improve seawater pH measurements and develop innovative chemical models.
- Company: University of East Anglia, a leader in marine research and education.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, 44 days annual leave, and support for professional growth.
- Other info: Fixed term role with excellent career development opportunities and a supportive environment.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on ocean science while collaborating with top researchers.
- Qualifications: PhD in physical chemistry or related field, with research experience and programming skills.
The predicted salary is between 38784 - 46049 € per year.
Salary on appointment will be £38,784 per annum, with an annual increment up to £46,049 per annum. An exciting opportunity has arisen for a Senior Research Associate to join a team of investigators working on the NERC/NSF funded project “Seawater pH: Bridging the Gap Between Free and Total pH Scales From Estuaries to the Deep Ocean, and Application to Current Sensors”. This project seeks to improve the calibration and interconversion of the two pH scales used for most seawater pH measurements, and to apply the new calibrations in test deployments of sensors.
You will be based at the University of East Anglia (UEA), working closely with the Principal Investigator and with other members of the team based at the UK National Oceanography Centre (NOC) where the main laboratory measurement programme is being conducted. The project also involves collaborators at the Monterey Bay Aquarium Research Institute, with whom we will liaise closely.
At UEA we are developing a chemical speciation model of the buffers used for seawater pH scale calibration. The aim of this project is the extension of the model to high pressures (i.e., depth in the ocean), based on measurements being made at NOC and on literature data. The modelling of the buffer solutions is linked to efforts by national metrology institutes in Europe and elsewhere to improve the pH scales, and you will also have the opportunity to interact with them.
The work involves the gathering and assessment of data (principally densities and speeds of sound in seawater-related solutions), and the fitting of quantities derived from this data to obtain the parameters of the model.
You will have a PhD in (preferably) physical chemistry or one of the other physical sciences, and have demonstrated mathematical and computer programming ability. You will also have some experience of independent research, with publications in respected journals or equivalent within the field. You will have good interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to analyse and interpret data and work effectively as part of a team.
You will prepare findings for publication, and present research at conferences and workshops. The role will support professional growth, including through support to develop fellowship proposals and broader career development plans. This full-time post is available from mid-April 2026, or as soon as possible thereafter, on a fixed term basis for up to 24 months.
Enquiries about the project and position are encouraged (contact: Prof. Simon Clegg, s.clegg@uea.ac.uk). Further information on our great benefits package, including 44 days annual leave inclusive of Bank Holidays and additional University Customary days (pro rata for part-time), can be found on our benefits page. Please note the job advert for this post will close once we receive sufficient applications from suitable candidates. We therefore recommend you apply as soon as possible. The University holds an Athena Swan Silver Institutional Award in recognition of our advancement towards gender equality.
Senior Research Associate in Marine Physical Chemistry in Norwich employer: Chemistry Guide
The University of East Anglia (UEA) is an exceptional employer, offering a vibrant work culture that fosters collaboration and innovation in marine research. With a strong commitment to employee development, UEA provides ample opportunities for professional growth, including support for fellowship proposals and career advancement. Additionally, the generous benefits package, including 44 days of annual leave, ensures a healthy work-life balance, making UEA an attractive place for passionate researchers to thrive.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Research Associate in Marine Physical Chemistry in Norwich
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current or former employees at UEA or NOC on LinkedIn. A friendly chat can give us insider info about the team and the project, plus it shows our genuine interest.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by diving deep into the project details. Familiarise ourselves with the pH scales and their applications in marine chemistry. This will help us impress the interviewers with our knowledge and enthusiasm.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase our research experience! Be ready to discuss our publications and how they relate to the role. We want to highlight our skills in data analysis and teamwork, as these are key for this position.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure our application gets noticed. Plus, we can keep track of our application status easily.
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Research Associate in Marine Physical Chemistry in Norwich
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to the Senior Research Associate role. Highlight your PhD, relevant research experience, and any publications that showcase your expertise in physical chemistry. We want to see how your background aligns with our exciting project!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're passionate about marine physical chemistry and how your skills can contribute to our project. Keep it engaging and personal – we love to see your personality come through!
Showcase Your Team Spirit:Since this role involves collaboration, make sure to highlight your interpersonal skills and any experience working in teams. We value good communication and teamwork, so share examples of how you've successfully worked with others in your research.
Apply Early!:Don’t wait until the last minute to submit your application. We recommend applying as soon as possible since the job advert will close once we receive enough suitable applications. Head over to our website and get your application in – we can't wait to hear from you!
How to prepare for a job interview at Chemistry Guide
✨Know Your Project Inside Out
Make sure you thoroughly understand the project details, especially the objectives and methodologies related to seawater pH calibration. Familiarise yourself with the NERC/NSF funding aspects and how your role fits into the bigger picture. This will show your genuine interest and preparedness.
✨Showcase Your Research Experience
Be ready to discuss your previous research projects in detail, particularly those that demonstrate your skills in physical chemistry and data analysis. Highlight any publications you've contributed to, as this will reinforce your credibility and expertise in the field.
✨Prepare for Technical Questions
Expect questions that test your mathematical and programming abilities. Brush up on relevant software or programming languages you’ve used in past research. Being able to articulate your technical skills clearly will set you apart from other candidates.
✨Demonstrate Teamwork and Communication Skills
Since this role involves collaboration with various teams, be prepared to share examples of how you've successfully worked in a team setting. Discuss your interpersonal skills and how you’ve effectively communicated complex ideas to diverse audiences, including at conferences or workshops.
