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- Tasks: Support groundbreaking research on microbial ecology in wetland soils.
- Company: Join the Centre for Sustainable Soils at Lancaster University.
- Benefits: Gain hands-on experience with state-of-the-art lab facilities and fieldwork.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on environmental sustainability and nutrient cycling.
- Qualifications: BSc in a relevant science and experience in soil analysis.
- Other info: Collaborate with a dynamic team and explore career growth opportunities.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 42000 £ per year.
Location: Bailrigg, Lancaster, UK
Full-Time/Indefinite with End Date
Interview date: To be confirmed
We wish to appoint a highly committed and capable Research Technician to provide technical support for a project focussed on mapping the stability and diversity of microbial carbon and nitrogen cycling in wetland soil (Follow N’ Flow). The position is part of a Swiss National Science Foundation Grant awarded jointly to Professor Richard Bardgett, which seeks to develop an understanding of the temporal and spatial variability of nutrient cycling in agriculturally impacted wetland soils.
This one‑year, full‑time position will work closely with a team including a postdoctoral scientist, collaborators in Switzerland, and the principal investigator to provide technical support in the sampling and laboratory processing of soil samples from a wetland experiment designed to track microbial enzyme activity and nutrient fluxes over time.
You will have experience in the analysis of soils for nutrients and microbial properties using a range of experimental approaches and be competent in data management. You should hold a BSc in a relevant science and be willing to work in the field.
You will be part of the newly established Centre for Sustainable Soils at Lancaster University, which has newly refurbished laboratories with state‑of‑the‑art facilities for soil microbial and biogeochemical analysis, including molecular assessment of soils.
This post is available from the 1st April 2026 and is available for one year, although extensions may be possible subject to funding.
Informal inquiries are welcome and may be directed to Professor Richard Bardgett: r.d.bardgett1@lancaster.ac.uk
Further Details:
- Job Description
- Person Specification
Please note: unless specified otherwise in the advert, all advertised roles are UK based.
The University recognises and celebrates good employment practice undertaken to address all inequality in higher education whilst promoting the importance and wellbeing for all our colleagues. We warmly welcome applicants from all sections of the community regardless of their age, religion, gender identity or expression, race, disability or sexual orientation, and are committed to promoting diversity, and equality of opportunity.
Research Technician Microbial Ecology in Lancaster employer: Lancaster University
Contact Detail:
Lancaster University Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Research Technician Microbial Ecology in Lancaster
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the field of microbial ecology, especially those connected to the Centre for Sustainable Soils. A friendly chat can open doors and give you insights that might just land you that Research Technician role.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by brushing up on your knowledge of nutrient cycling and microbial properties. We recommend practising common interview questions related to your experience and the specific techniques mentioned in the job description.
✨Tip Number 3
Show your passion for the project! When you get the chance to speak with the team, express your enthusiasm for wetland ecosystems and how your skills align with their goals. It’s all about making that personal connection!
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining the team at Lancaster University.
We think you need these skills to ace Research Technician Microbial Ecology in Lancaster
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the Research Technician role. Highlight your experience with soil analysis and microbial properties, as well as any relevant projects you've worked on. We want to see how your skills match what we're looking for!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're passionate about microbial ecology and how you can contribute to our project. Be sure to mention your willingness to work in the field and your data management skills.
Showcase Your Team Spirit: Since you'll be working closely with a team, it's important to demonstrate your ability to collaborate. Mention any previous experiences where you worked in a team setting, especially in research or technical support roles. We love a good team player!
Apply Through Our Website: Don't forget to apply through our website! It's the best way to ensure your application gets to us directly. Plus, it shows you're keen on joining our community at the Centre for Sustainable Soils. We can't wait to hear from you!
How to prepare for a job interview at Lancaster University
✨Know Your Microbial Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of microbial ecology, especially related to carbon and nitrogen cycling. Be ready to discuss specific techniques you've used in soil analysis and how they relate to the project. This shows you're not just interested but also knowledgeable about the field.
✨Show Your Team Spirit
Since this role involves working closely with a team, highlight your collaborative experiences. Share examples of how you've successfully worked with others in past projects, especially in a lab or field setting. This will demonstrate that you can contribute positively to the team dynamic.
✨Prepare Questions for the Interviewer
Think of insightful questions to ask during the interview. Inquire about the specific goals of the project or the methodologies they plan to use. This not only shows your enthusiasm but also your critical thinking skills and genuine interest in the role.
✨Be Ready for Practical Scenarios
Expect to discuss practical scenarios related to soil sampling and data management. Prepare to explain how you would handle specific challenges in the field or lab. This will help you stand out as someone who is not only theoretically sound but also practically capable.