At a Glance
- Tasks: Conduct fieldwork on coral reefs and mangroves, mapping connectivity and assessing ecosystem health.
- Company: Join Lancaster University, a top UK research institution focused on environmental challenges.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, collaborative environment, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Diverse and inclusive workplace encouraging applicants from all backgrounds.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on coastal ecosystems while working in stunning remote locations.
- Qualifications: PhD in marine science, fieldwork experience, and strong statistical skills required.
The predicted salary is between 33002 - 37694 € per year.
An exciting opportunity exists for a coral reef scientist or marine community ecologist to contribute to a Horizon Europe funded project: The role of connectivity in safeguarding functioning coastal ecosystems under global change. We are seeking a highly motivated and enthusiastic marine scientist to contribute to a project investigating the links between mangroves, seagrasses and coral reefs in the context of seabird nutrient inputs. This is a multi‑institutional project, led by University of Bremen. Lancaster University is leading the ecology component focused on the Seychelles, with a particular focus on Aldabra Atoll and the inner islands marine parks. Fieldwork for the project will include long periods in remote locations, working in small teams, and experience of such working will be essential. The project will identify key sites where mangrove to coral reef connectivity can be mapped and investigated, assess species and nutrient connectivity across the seascape, and investigate outcomes for both ecosystem functioning and food security. Patterns of seabird densities in mangrove stands will be used as a study design to investigate the influence of seabird derived nutrient inputs on seascape connectivity. Co‑mentoring of a PhD student on the same project will be part of the role. Applicants are encouraged to think through their own ideas about these linkages and how their area of expertise could be applied to this study design. You will work closely with Prof Nick Graham and Dr James Robinson on this project, and collaborate with partners at Seychelles Islands Foundation and Seychelles Parks and Gardens Authority, and with other universities in the consortium.
Key Responsibilities
- Conduct fieldwork in remote marine and terrestrial sites, including mangroves, seagrasses and coral reefs.
- Identify and map key sites of mangrove‑to‑coral reef connectivity.
- Assess species and nutrient connectivity across the seascape.
- Investigate outcomes for ecosystem functioning and food security.
- Use patterns of seabird densities in mangrove stands as a study design.
- Co‑mentor a PhD student within the project.
Candidate Profile
- PhD in marine science or a closely related field.
- Extensive experience of fieldwork in remote settings.
- Strong skills in statistical modelling and scientific writing.
- Proactive, enthusiastic and able to work effectively in small multidisciplinary teams.
- Good interpersonal skills and ability to collaborate across institutions.
About Lancaster University and the Lancaster Environment Centre
Lancaster University is a research‑intensive institution, ranked in the top 15 of UK universities. The Lancaster Environment Centre (LEC) is a large multidisciplinary department focusing on environmental challenges across the natural and social sciences, with particular strengths in tropical systems including coral reefs and tropical rainforests. LEC offers a collegial environment based on departmental values and embedded Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion considerations and actions. Applicants from diverse backgrounds are encouraged to apply.
Equal Opportunities
We warmly welcome applicants from all sections of the community regardless of age, religion, gender identity or expression, race, disability or sexual orientation, and are committed to promoting diversity, equality of opportunity and good employment practice.
Post-Doctoral Research Associate - Marine Ecology - 0363-26 employer: Lancaster University
Lancaster University is an exceptional employer, offering a vibrant and inclusive work culture that fosters collaboration and innovation in marine ecology. With a strong emphasis on employee growth, you will have the opportunity to engage in impactful research while co-mentoring PhD students, all within a supportive environment that values diversity and equality. Located in the picturesque setting of Bailrigg, Lancaster, you will be part of a leading research institution dedicated to addressing critical environmental challenges.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Post-Doctoral Research Associate - Marine Ecology - 0363-26
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your contacts in marine science and related fields. Attend conferences or webinars where you can meet potential collaborators or employers. Remember, it’s all about who you know!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the project and the team you'll be working with. Familiarise yourself with their work on mangrove-to-coral reef connectivity and think of how your expertise fits in. Show them you’re not just another candidate!
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your fieldwork stories! Be ready to share your experiences in remote settings and how you tackled challenges. Highlight your teamwork skills and how you’ve contributed to successful projects in the past.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are proactive and engaged with our platform.
We think you need these skills to ace Post-Doctoral Research Associate - Marine Ecology - 0363-26
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter to highlight your experience in marine science and fieldwork. We want to see how your skills align with the project’s focus on mangrove-to-coral reef connectivity!
Show Your Passion:Let your enthusiasm for marine ecology shine through! Share your ideas about the linkages between ecosystems and how you can contribute to the project. We love seeing candidates who are genuinely excited about their work.
Highlight Relevant Experience:Don’t forget to mention any previous fieldwork, especially in remote locations. We’re looking for someone who can handle the challenges of working in small teams in unique environments, so make that experience pop!
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to submit your application through our website. It’s the best way to ensure it gets to us directly, and you’ll find all the details you need to complete your application smoothly.
How to prepare for a job interview at Lancaster University
✨Know Your Research
Make sure you’re well-versed in the specifics of marine ecology, especially regarding coral reefs, mangroves, and seagrasses. Brush up on recent studies related to seabird nutrient inputs and how they affect ecosystem connectivity. This will show your passion and expertise during the interview.
✨Fieldwork Experience Matters
Since the role involves extensive fieldwork in remote locations, be prepared to discuss your previous experiences in similar settings. Share specific examples of challenges you faced and how you overcame them. This will demonstrate your adaptability and problem-solving skills.
✨Collaboration is Key
Highlight your ability to work in multidisciplinary teams. Think of examples where you successfully collaborated with others, especially in research contexts. This will resonate well with the interviewers, as teamwork is crucial for this project.
✨Bring Your Ideas
The job description encourages applicants to think through their own ideas about the linkages in the study. Prepare a few innovative thoughts or questions about the project that you can share during the interview. This shows initiative and a genuine interest in contributing to the research.
