At a Glance
- Tasks: Join a team to improve evidence for rare bat species through fieldwork and data analysis.
- Company: Keele University, known for innovative research and a vibrant community.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, generous leave, pension scheme, and professional development opportunities.
- Other info: Flexible working practices and a commitment to diversity in the workplace.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in conservation science while developing your research skills.
- Qualifications: PhD in ecology or related field with strong analytical skills.
The predicted salary is between 38784 - 47389 £ per year.
Grade 7 Salary Range £38,784 - £47,389 per annum (Incremental progression) Full Time Fixed Term until 31st March 2029
The Opportunity
An exciting opportunity has arisen to join the School of Life Sciences as a Postdoctoral Research Associate on a project aimed at improving the evidence base for rare and understudied bat species. This role forms part of a collaborative, multi-partner research project involving Natural England, the Bat Conservation Trust, Vincent Wildlife Trust and local bat groups, as part of Natural England's Species Recovery Programme.
The successful candidate will play a central role in delivering field and analytical components of the project, including:
- hibernation and maternity roost monitoring
- acoustic data collection and processing
- the integration of environmental and roost-level datasets utilising GIS and earth observation data
- statistical modelling
They will work closely with the project's lead researchers, external partners, and volunteer networks to coordinate fieldwork, manage data, and contribute to high-quality research outputs.
The successful candidate will hold a PhD in ecology or related field, and have strong quantitative and analytical skills, with experience in some, but not necessarily all, of the following areas:
- acoustic monitoring
- ecological fieldwork
- spatial & statistical data analysis
- bat ecology
- or closely related area
The role would suit an ambitious early career researcher who is keen to develop expertise in applied conservation science, species recovery, and collaborative research.
The Benefits
The University recognises that its success depends upon the contribution and dedication of its talented staff. In return, we have a competitive benefits package available, including:
- Competitive rate of pay with annual increments within the grade (Keele Spine)
- Generous annual leave entitlement with opportunities to purchase additional leave
- Excellent staff pension scheme
- Access to continued personal, professional and career development
- On site 'outstanding' nursery
- Discounted health & fitness facilities on site
- Cycle to work scheme (subject to eligibility)
Please note that the starting salary will typically be at the bottom of the pay scale shown above.
The University is committed to operating flexible working practices wherever possible.
The University Keele University is renowned for its exciting approach to higher education, innovative research, beautiful campus, strong community spirit and excellent student experience. With a turnover in excess of £170 million, over 15,000 students and a total staff of approximately 2000, the University provides high quality teaching across a wide range of academic and vocational subjects and promotes world-class research.
Further information can be found at https://www.keele.ac.uk/about/
Keele University values equity and diversity across our workforce and to ensuring our staff community is reflective of the diversity of our student population. In support of these commitments the University welcomes applications from individuals of Black, Asian and ethnic minority backgrounds for all roles.
Please note this appointment is subject to medical clearance by the University's Occupational Health provider.
Closing Date: 13th September 2026
Interviews will be held on: 28th September 2026
Post reference: KU000005379
Post Doctoral Research Associate in Keele employer: Keele University
Keele University is an exceptional employer, offering a supportive and inclusive work culture that values creativity and innovation in teaching. With flexible working arrangements and a commitment to professional development, employees have ample opportunities for growth while contributing to a diverse educational environment at the Harper & Keele Veterinary School.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Post Doctoral Research Associate in Keele
✨Get Involved in Local Research Communities
Tap into local biotechnology meetups and research forums. These are great places to mingle with industry professionals, share your passion, and even discover unadvertised job openings. It's all about getting your face known in the field!
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Curate a portfolio showcasing any research projects or internships you've completed in biotechnology. This tangible evidence of your skills can really impress employers when you chat with them at networking events or interviews. It's about making that killer first impression!
✨Stay Up-to-Date with Industry Trends
Biotech is a fast-paced field, so keeping yourself updated with the latest advancements is crucial. Attend industry conferences, webinars, or workshops to broaden your knowledge and meet potential employers. Plus, it’ll give you fantastic talking points for your interviews at places like Keele University!
We think you need these skills to ace Post Doctoral Research Associate in Keele
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Lab Skills:In the biotechnology field, it's super important to highlight your lab experience in your CV. Be sure to mention specific techniques or instruments you've mastered (think PCR, gel electrophoresis, etc.) and any relevant projects you've worked on. This will show Keele University that you have the hands-on skills they need.
Tailor Your Technical Skills:Make sure to emphasise your technical skills, especially those relevant to the biotechnology sector. Include any software tools or programming languages you've used, like R or Python for data analysis, which could be key for this role at Keele University.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Since this is a full-time role, your cover letter should reflect not only your passion for biotechnology but also your long-term career ambitions. Share why you're excited about the work that Keele University does and how you envision contributing to their goals. This shows that you’re not just looking for any job, but you're genuinely invested in this opportunity.
Include Your Papers and Projects:If you've published any papers or contributed to significant projects, mention them! These documents can boost your application and provide tangible evidence of your expertise in the biotechnology field. Don’t forget to link to any relevant publications or project summaries—this can set you apart from other candidates.
How to prepare for a job interview at Keele University
✨Brush Up on Lab Techniques
Since you're eyeing a full-time gig in biotechnology, make sure you're well-versed in the lab techniques relevant to the role. Be ready to talk about PCR, CRISPR, or any specific methods mentioned in the job description at Keele University. You might even be asked to demonstrate your understanding of these processes.
✨Know Your Bioinformatics Tools
Get comfortable with bioinformatics tools that are commonly used in the industry, like BLAST or Bioconductor. These are key in biotechnology, and having hands-on experience or at least familiarity can set you apart. Prepare to discuss any relevant projects you've worked on, especially if they involved data analysis or genomic research.
✨Show Your Teamwork Skills
Biotech often involves collaboration across multiple disciplines. Be ready to share stories that highlight your teamwork and communication skills, especially in research projects. Think about working with different teams at university or any internships – this is where you can show how well you fit into Keele University's culture.
✨Research Recent Biotech Innovations
Stay updated on the latest trends and breakthroughs in biotechnology. Knowing what's happening in the field can help you engage in more meaningful discussions during your interview. Bring up recent articles or advancements that excite you, especially those related to the work being done at Keele University. This shows your passion for the industry!
