At a Glance
- Tasks: Coordinate oyster restoration projects and optimise hatchery production using the latest research.
- Company: Heriot-Watt University and Balanced Horizon, leaders in marine conservation.
- Benefits: 33 days annual leave, hybrid working, and opportunities for professional development.
- Other info: Join a dynamic team and contribute to community workshops and research initiatives.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on marine conservation while gaining hands-on experience.
- Qualifications: Postgraduate degree in Marine Sciences and SCUBA diving certification required.
The predicted salary is between 37694 - 47389 £ per year.
Grade and Salary: Grade 7 - £37,694 - £47,389 per annum (pro rata)
FTE and working pattern: Part time (0.5FTE/ 17.5 hours per week), Fixed term for 15 months with the possibility of extension.
Reward and Benefits: 33 days annual leave, plus 9 buildings closed days (pro rata).
The Restoration Forth Associate role, based across both Heriot-Watt University and Balanced Horizon’s Forth Marine Hatchery, will coordinate between the two institutions to optimise hatchery production by integrating the latest academic evidence into practical hatchery operations, ensuring that production methods remain evidence-based and responsive to emerging research.
The postholder will support oyster restoration by coordinating the sourcing and transport of pre-weathered oyster and scallop shells, securing the necessary authorisations from SEPA and assisting with site licence modifications in collaboration with Lochside Associates. They will liaise with hatcheries to secure larval supply, oversee biosecurity protocols and contribute to the development and refinement of novel pond systems for broodstock conditioning, nutrition, larval production and settlement using international best practices.
A key aspect of the role will be to evaluate the effectiveness and cost-effectiveness of direct setting (spat-on-shell) as a restoration technique by establishing comparative survival baselines against conventional hatchery methods through field trials, monitoring and data analysis. The postholder will also collaborate closely with MCS and other project partners, including WWF, to organise community production workshops and create opportunities for students, interns and volunteers to develop their skills, contribute to applied research and support restoration activities.
Through engagement with wider restoration networks, the role will promote knowledge exchange, consistency and the adoption of best practices across oyster restoration initiatives in Scotland. Overall, the position will act as a vital link between academic research and applied hatchery operations, translating scientific evidence into practical improvements that enhance hatchery production, strengthen restoration outcomes and build capacity within the sector.
Key Duties and Responsibilities
- Heriot-Watt University (0.5FTE)
- Licensing applications & modifications
- Work with Lochside Associates to modify license sites for spat on shell.
- Apply for permission for experimental units at intertidal sites.
- Licenses & permissions for translocating larvae from EU hatchery.
- Broodstock selection & biosecurity
- Liaise with suppliers to choose appropriate biosecure & disease screened broodstock.
- Coordinate with MCS to organise biosecurity events.
- Establish comparative monitoring baseline
- Carry out Remote setting trial using purchased larvae.
- Plan any deploy experimental and control units at intertidal site
- Carry out on-going monitoring to estimate survivability and cost-effectiveness at site
- Coordinate with MCS to bring volunteer groups
- 6-month evaluation at intertidal site
- Research optimisation of spat production
- Review broodstock nutrition & conditioning practices
- Review Larval nutrition
- Review setting of larvae
- Survey restoration sites for natural spat fall
- Plan dive operations at subtidal sites
- Coordinate with MCS to bring volunteer groups to intertidal sites.
- Balanced Horizon (0.5FTE)
- Sourcing pre-weathered oyster/scallop shells
- Coordinate with potential shell suppliers.
- Manage purchase and transport of shell.
- Coordinate with SEPA for authorisation.
- Broodstock intake & monitoring
- Monitor condition, weight, size of incoming broodstock
- Optimise conditions for broodstock
- Monitor broodstock in ponds
- Develop and implement evidence-based nutrition plan
- Optimise successful larval production
- Monitor larvae in ponds
- Develop and implement evidence-based nutrition plan
- Spat monitoring & evaluation
- Monitor ponds and process
- Implement international advice
- Adapt conditions as needed to optimise spat success
- Assist with hatchery long term development
- Investigate & plan nutrition systems for increased capacity
- Investigate & plan settling system for increase capacity
- Investigate & plan long term broodstock management
- Both
- Organise a community production workshop
- Coordinate with MCS and other project partners
- Organise specialist speakers
- Build relationships with oyster hatcheries for larval supply
- Coordinate larval supply and specify translocation protocols
- Work with NS, FHI, etc for import and biosecurity clearance
- Network and collaborate with other restoration projects to ensure best practice, consistency and a coordinated effort to restore oysters in Scotland
- Attend and present at relevant international conferences
- Contribute to career development of ECRs
- Facilitate opportunities for Heriot-Watt students (projects/volunteering)
- Provide research/ career development opportunities for interns
- Review & report on findings
- Consult with UK and international experts (NORA/Native Oyster Network)
- Summarise academic and applied findings
- Publish findings
- A strong academic record with a Post Graduate degree in Marine Sciences or a similar discipline (PhD or equivalent).
- Data handling using databases, spreadsheets, GIS and statistical packages.
- Ability to work well as part of an interdisciplinary team and to show initiative.
- Experience in aquatic animal husbandry, biosecurity, aquarium management.
- Meticulous approach to scientific work.
- A high level of competence in SCUBA diving including an appropriate level of diving qualification for compliance with the UK Diving at Work Regulations (CMAS 3*; Dive Master, Dive Leader etc).
- A full UK driving license or equivalent qualification that would enable driving on UK roads and therefore access to field and laboratory locations.
- Experience of scientific writing and fluent in English.
- Willingness to spend time working away from home.
- Good communication and interpersonal skills.
- An enthusiasm for the marine environment and conservation.
- Reasonable fitness level – there will be a need to move equipment or work long hours or at sea in response to tidal cycles that are physically demanding.
- Willingness to undertake fieldwork and to join near-shore boat work.
- Experience of work at sea and on the shore.
- Experience of R.
- Experience of marine monitoring.
- A track record of generating outputs from scientific information and research.
Education, Qualifications and Experience
Essential Criteria
Desirable Criteria
How to Apply
Please submit via the Heriot-Watt on-line recruitment system (1) Cover letter describing their interest and suitability for the post; (2) Full CV. Applications can be submitted until 23:55 on Friday 25 September 2026.
Heriot-Watt University is committed to securing equality of opportunity in employment and to the creation of an environment in which individuals are selected, trained, promoted, appraised, and otherwise treated on the sole basis of their relevant merits and abilities. Equality and diversity are all about maximising potential and creating a culture of inclusion for all. Heriot-Watt University values diversity across our university community and welcomes applications from all sectors of society, particularly from underrepresented groups.
We welcome and will consider flexible working patterns e.g. part-time working and job share options.
Restoration Forth Research Associate in Edinburgh employer: Heriot-Watt University
Heriot-Watt University is an exceptional employer, offering a unique opportunity for a Paralegal to shape and grow the University's legal function while working in a vibrant, diverse environment at our Edinburgh campus. With 33 days of annual leave, a commitment to employee well-being, and a focus on professional development, you will gain invaluable experience across various legal areas and contribute to impactful projects within a globally recognised institution. Join us to be part of a supportive community that values inclusivity and encourages career growth in a dynamic, international setting.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Restoration Forth Research Associate in Edinburgh
✨Get Involved in Local Research Communities
Join online forums or local meetups related to scientific research in your area. Connecting with fellow researchers and academics can lead to part-time opportunities and give you insights into who's hiring, plus it’s a great way to showcase your passion for the field.
✨Utilise University Connections
If you're a student or recent graduate, tap into your university’s career services or research departments. They often have connections with local labs or companies looking for part-time research assistants – you might just find a role that suits you perfectly!
✨Follow Research Journals and Publications
Stay updated with the latest publications in your area of interest. Many researchers announce opportunities in their articles or on the journals' websites. If you spot a research group doing interesting work, don’t hesitate to reach out and ask if they're open to bringing someone on board part-time.
✨Apply Through Our Website
We've got loads of part-time opportunities in scientific research listed on our website, so make sure to check that out. It’s a straightforward way to apply and find roles that align with your skills and interests, plus we’re always keen on talented individuals like you joining our community!
We think you need these skills to ace Restoration Forth Research Associate in Edinburgh
Some tips for your application 🫡
Showcase Your Research Skills:For a part-time gig in scientific research like this one at Heriot-Watt University, we want to see how you’ve handled research projects before. Highlight any lab techniques, statistical software, or methodologies you’ve employed. If you’ve contributed to research papers, make sure to mention that as well—it’s a big plus!
Tailor Your CV for the Research Community:When crafting your CV, let's make it specific to the scientific research field. Focus on relevant coursework, technical skills, and any certifications you might have—like Good Laboratory Practice (GLP) or safety training—and don’t forget to list your publications or presentations if applicable. This is your chance to impress us with your academic profile!
Highlight Your Availability:Since this is a part-time role, it’s essential to be clear about your availability in your application. Let Heriot-Watt University know how many hours you can commit and when you’re available to start. This shows that you’re organised and ready to jump in without any hassle!
Express Your Passion for Research:In your cover letter, let’s make your enthusiasm for scientific research shine! Talk about what excites you about the field and how joining Heriot-Watt University fits into your career goals. It’s all about showing us that you’re not just looking for a job, but you’re eager to contribute to meaningful research!
How to prepare for a job interview at Heriot-Watt University
✨Showcase Your Research Skills
When interviewing for a part-time role in scientific research, be ready to discuss specific research projects you've worked on. Bring along a portfolio that highlights your findings, methodologies, and any publications or presentations. We want to see your hands-on experience and how you've contributed to the scientific community!
✨Get Familiar with Relevant Techniques
Make sure you have a grasp on the technical skills and tools relevant to the specific area of research. Whether it’s lab techniques, data analysis software, or fieldwork methodologies, brush up on these topics as you may be asked to demonstrate your understanding or talk about how you've applied them in your previous experiences.
✨Show Enthusiasm for Learning
Part-time roles often open doors for fresh perspectives and new skills. Highlight your eagerness to learn within the interview. Be prepared to discuss how you can manage your time effectively while balancing work and studies, and show how you plan to absorb knowledge from your colleagues at Heriot-Watt University.
✨Prepare for Collaborative Scenarios
Scientific research is often a team effort. Expect to discuss how you work within a team setting, particularly any challenges you've tackled alongside your peers. You might even be presented with a hypothetical scenario during the interview to see how you'd collaborate with the team at Heriot-Watt University. Make sure you have a few examples ready!
