At a Glance
- Tasks: Join a dynamic team researching fluvial ecology and contribute to groundbreaking projects.
- Company: Loughborough University, a vibrant community focused on innovation and sustainability.
- Benefits: Generous holiday allowance, competitive pay, and access to world-class facilities.
- Other info: Inclusive workplace encouraging applications from under-represented groups.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in environmental science while developing your skills in a supportive environment.
- Qualifications: PhD in relevant field and experience in fieldwork and macroinvertebrate ecology.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 £ per year.
Application Closing Date: Wednesday, 17 June 2026
Full-time and fixed term for 12-months, starting as soon as possible. Join us and be part of a vibrant community at Loughborough University.
This post provides an exciting opportunity for someone with a strong ecological and environmental science background to work on the 3-year NERC funded Pushing the Frontiers Project: The impact of cohesive material on critical shear stress in gravel bed rivers. This post will be based in the Department of Geography and Environment, but the successful applicant will spend the majority of their time working at Manchester Metropolitan University.
The post-holder is integral to the success of the project and will require high-level macroinvertebrate and sediment-process knowledge, with significant experience in fieldwork and physical experiments. The post holder will have a scientific degree or equivalent experience and a PhD in a relevant research area.
The Research Associate will undertake the specific tasks outlined in the project, assisted by the project investigator and will have access to an established researcher-development programme in which the RA will participate in terms of their personal development.
About You: You should have current or recent work experience at postgraduate level involving fieldwork and physical experiments associated with macroinvertebrate habitat and ecology. You should have excellent working knowledge of UK freshwater macroinvertebrate sampling and species level identification. You should be able to work away from home to complete fieldwork campaigns lasting several days, with overnight stays. Staff from under-represented groups in higher education and the discipline, including those from racialised minorities, who have a physical or invisible disability, or are neurodivergent, are particularly encouraged to apply.
The University is a Disability Confident employer, a member of the Stonewall Diversity Champion Scheme and holds Race Equality Charter and Athena SWAN bronze awards.
Why should you Apply? With huge amount of variety in the role, there is an opportunity for you to develop and continually grow. If this sounds like the right place, team and role for you please do get in touch. We’d love to hear from you.
Informal enquiries should be directed to Dr Bobby Houseago, via email. For more information refer to the Job Description and Person Specification.
Application Process: For further support with your application, please refer to our application guidance, which includes some top tips to help you when completing your application. The Research Associate will work in collaboration with other team members based at Durham University and Manchester Metropolitan University. As this is a dual/multi-institutional project, team members from these institutions may be involved in all stages of selection. We are happy to consider any reasonable adjustments that candidates may need during the recruitment process. If there are additional adjustments, you’d like to request please contact us. We also offer reasonable adjustments on the job.
Closing Date: 17 June 2026
Interview Date: w/c 6 July 2026
Our Benefits: At Loughborough, our benefits are designed to support your life inside and outside of work, helping you to thrive and feel valued as part of our community. Examples of our benefits include:
- Time off - generous holiday allowance, including 14 university closure days and bank holidays, with the option to buy extra through our holiday purchase scheme.
- Where you work - access to a range of fantastic facilities with plenty of green space across our 523-acre East Midlands campus, plus an exciting community at our London campus on the Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park.
- Financial Wellbeing - competitive pay, two excellent pension schemes, and everyday savings opportunities.
- Support for you and those close to you - through our range of life event leave policies as well as access to an on-site nursery at our East Midlands campus, flexible and hybrid working options.
- Health and Wellbeing - discounted gym memberships and access to world-class sporting facilities, including physiotherapy, plus healthcare offers such as eyesight testing and wellbeing support.
- Travel and sustainability - access to our electric vehicle and cycle-to-work schemes, as well as a variety of travel offers to support sustainable commuting.
Discover more about the full range of rewards and benefits at Loughborough University.
Research Associate in Fluvial Ecology in Belton employer: Loughborough University
Loughborough University is an exceptional employer, offering a vibrant and inclusive work culture that fosters personal and professional growth. With access to world-class facilities and a strong commitment to diversity, employees benefit from generous holiday allowances, competitive pay, and a supportive environment that prioritises health and wellbeing. The unique opportunity to collaborate on cutting-edge research projects in a multi-institutional setting further enhances the rewarding experience of working at this prestigious institution.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Research Associate in Fluvial Ecology in Belton
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current or former employees at Loughborough University and ask about their experiences. A friendly chat can give you insider info and might even lead to a referral.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by diving deep into the project details. Familiarise yourself with the NERC funded Pushing the Frontiers Project and think about how your skills in macroinvertebrate and sediment-process knowledge can contribute.
✨Tip Number 3
Show off your fieldwork experience! Be ready to discuss specific examples of your past projects, especially those involving macroinvertebrate habitat and ecology. Real-life stories can make you stand out.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining our vibrant community at Loughborough.
We think you need these skills to ace Research Associate in Fluvial Ecology in Belton
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your application to highlight your experience in fluvial ecology and macroinvertebrate studies. We want to see how your background aligns with the specific needs of the Pushing the Frontiers Project.
Showcase Your Fieldwork Skills:Since fieldwork is a big part of this role, be sure to detail your hands-on experience. We love seeing examples of your past projects or experiments that demonstrate your ability to work in diverse environments.
Be Clear and Concise:Keep your application straightforward and to the point. We appreciate clarity, so avoid jargon and make it easy for us to see why you’re the perfect fit for the Research Associate position.
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to submit your application through our official website! It’s the best way to ensure we receive all your details correctly and can get back to you promptly.
How to prepare for a job interview at Loughborough University
✨Know Your Ecology
Brush up on your knowledge of macroinvertebrates and sediment processes. Be ready to discuss specific examples from your past fieldwork experiences that demonstrate your expertise in these areas.
✨Show Your Passion for Research
Express your enthusiasm for the Pushing the Frontiers Project and how it aligns with your career goals. Share any relevant research you've conducted or projects you've been involved in that showcase your commitment to fluvial ecology.
✨Prepare for Practical Questions
Expect questions about your fieldwork methodology and how you handle challenges in the field. Think of scenarios where you had to adapt your approach and be prepared to explain your thought process.
✨Engage with the Interviewers
Remember, interviews are a two-way street! Prepare thoughtful questions about the project and the team dynamics. This shows your interest and helps you gauge if the role is the right fit for you.
