Research Assistant - Peatlands (sick cover)
Reference no.: NWH RPE 01
Salary range: £32,891 - £33,754 per annum, pro-rata
Duration: Temporary until March 2027 for sick cover
Working hours: 28 hours per week
Location: Thurso, ERI Castle Street
Closing Date: 5pm, Thursday 6th August 2026
Position: The Environmental Research Institute (ERI) is part of UHI North, West and Hebrides, Thurso, one of the academic partners of UHI. Our mission is to ‘provide dynamic leadership in research, innovation and education that advances understanding and informs management of our natural environment’. Within the ERI’s, the ‘Peatlands” team seeks to provide underpinning evidence that can drive changes in policy and practice to ensure a resilient future for the peatlands of the Highlands and Islands region, and a just transition for its people. Our work involves many collaborative, field-based research projects in the Flow Country UNESCO World Heritage Site. To support some of these projects, we now seek to appoint a Research Assistant (Sick Cover Replacement). The successful candidate will be based in Thurso with the team.
Responsibilities: The post holder will be responsible for assisting within a research team and working on an established research programme under general supervision. Managing their own activities and prioritising their own workload within agreed objectives to ensure that all activities are completed to deadlines. Assisting within a research project, by, for example, undertaking literature reviews, collecting and collating data and undertaking and recording the outcomes of experiments. Assisting with the supervision of student projects and the delivery of introductory classes.
Qualifications, Experience and Skills: The suitable candidate will have a degree and may have some previous relevant work experience.
45 days annual leave per year (pro rata for part-time staff)
Local Government Pension Scheme (Highland Council)
10% Membership Discount at Highlife Highland
Occupational sick pay scheme and family friendly leave provisions
Staff Support and Employee Assistance Programmes
Employment Benefits Scheme including lifestyle savings and Cycle to Work Scheme
Research Assistant - Peatlands (sick cover) in Thurso employer: Environmental Research Institute
As a Laboratory Technician at our Thurso campus, you will join a supportive and collaborative work culture that prioritises employee well-being and professional growth. With generous benefits including 45 days of annual leave, a local government pension scheme, and various employee assistance programmes, we are committed to fostering a rewarding environment where your contributions to research and knowledge exchange are valued. This role not only offers competitive remuneration but also the opportunity to engage in meaningful work that impacts both the community and the field of science.
Contact Details:
Environmental Research Institute Recruitment Team
