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- Tasks: Conduct groundbreaking research on marine forest ecosystems and their restoration.
- Company: Join the University of Exeter, a leader in ecological research.
- Benefits: Flexible working, career development support, and a stunning campus in Cornwall.
- Other info: Collaborate with experts across Europe and contribute to innovative projects.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on marine biodiversity and conservation efforts.
- Qualifications: PhD or equivalent experience in marine ecosystem science required.
The predicted salary is between 35000 - 45000 £ per year.
The Centre for Ecology and Conservation wishes to recruit a Postdoctoral Research Associate or Fellow to conduct research into marine forest assemblages. The successful candidate will review existing knowledge on a range of marine forest assemblages, anthropogenic‑induced changes, and the ecosystem services they provide. This information will be distributed to project partners as metadata to inform knowledge gaps and research needs.
The candidate will also lead or support a historical baseline assessment on marine forest assemblages in Tenerife to delve deeper into the magnitude and drivers of ecological changes observed over the past decades. This position will contribute to the Horizon Europe funded project OCEAN CITIZEN: Marine forest coastal restoration: an underwater gardening socio‑ecological plan (ref: 101093910). This project aims to develop an innovative and sustainable protocol for the restoration and conservation of marine coastal biodiversity. The funded post is available immediately until 31 Dec 2024, with the possibility of extension for a further three months. It will be based at the University of Exeter’s Cornwall campus.
‘Marine forests’ is a term for marine biotic assemblages that contribute to benthic structural complexity and thus support the presence of other species, these include seagrasses, seaweeds, sponges, corals, and gorgonians, among others. The successful applicant will (i) collate and synthesize current knowledge on the ecological health of certain marine forest organisms, and (ii) conduct an assessment of historical changes to the marine coastal ecosystem of Punta Blanca, Tenerife, a key case study site. The applicant will work under the supervision of Dr Ruth Thurstan and with external partners across Europe and in Tenerife.
About you
The successful applicant will be able to develop research objectives, projects and proposals; identify sources of research funding and contribute to the process of securing funds and make presentations at conferences and other events. Applicants will possess (or be close to completion of) a relevant PhD or equivalent qualification/experience in a related field of study. The successful applicant will be a nationally recognised authority in marine ecosystem science or on specific marine forest assemblages, and possess sufficient specialist knowledge to develop research programmes and methodologies. The successful applicant will be able to work collaboratively, supervise the work of others and act as team leader as required. They will be confident conducting reviews and meta‑analyses or historical analyses and have published research in internationally‑recognised journals.
Please ensure you read the Job Description and Person Specification for full details of this role by clicking on the attachment.
What we can offer you
- Freedom (and the support) to pursue your intellectual interests and to work creatively across disciplines to produce internationally exciting research;
- Support teams that understand the University wide research and teaching goals and partner with our academics accordingly;
- An Innovation, Impact and Business directorate that works closely with our academics providing specialist support for external engagement and development;
- Our Exeter Academic initiative supporting high performing academics to achieve their potential and develop their career;
- A beautiful campus set in the heart of stunning Cornwall.
Our Equality, Diversity and Inclusion Commitment
With over 27,000 students and 6,400 staff from 180 different countries we offer a diverse and engaging environment where our diversity is celebrated and valued as a major strength. We are committed to creating an inclusive culture where all members of our community are supported to thrive; where diverse voices are heard through our engagement with evidence‑based charter frameworks for gender (Athena SWAN), race equality (Race Equality Charter Mark), LGBTQ+ inclusion (Stonewall Diversity Champion) and as a Disability Confident employer. Whilst all applicants will be judged on merit alone, we particularly welcome applications from groups currently underrepresented within our working community. Reasonable adjustments are available for interviews and workplaces.
Postdoctoral Research Associate or Fellow in Exeter employer: Maf World
Contact Detail:
Maf World Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Postdoctoral Research Associate or Fellow in Exeter
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your contacts in the marine ecosystem science field and let them know you're on the lookout for opportunities. You never know who might have a lead or be able to put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Get involved in relevant conferences and workshops. Presenting your research or even just attending can help you meet key players in the field and showcase your expertise. Plus, it’s a great way to stay updated on the latest trends and findings!
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t underestimate the power of social media! Follow organisations and researchers in marine conservation on platforms like Twitter and LinkedIn. Engage with their content and share your own insights to build your online presence.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! We’ve got loads of exciting opportunities waiting for you. Make sure to tailor your application to highlight how your skills align with the role, especially in areas like historical analyses and collaborative projects.
We think you need these skills to ace Postdoctoral Research Associate or Fellow in Exeter
Some tips for your application 🫡
Read the Job Description Thoroughly: Before you start writing, make sure to read the job description carefully. It’s packed with clues about what we’re looking for, so tailor your application to highlight how your skills and experiences match our needs.
Showcase Your Research Experience: We want to see your research chops! Make sure to include specific examples of your past work, especially any publications or projects related to marine ecosystems. This is your chance to shine!
Be Clear and Concise: Keep your application clear and to the point. Use straightforward language and avoid jargon unless it’s relevant. We appreciate a well-structured application that’s easy to read.
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way to ensure it gets to us directly. Plus, you’ll find all the necessary details and forms there to make the process smooth.
How to prepare for a job interview at Maf World
✨Know Your Marine Forests
Make sure you brush up on the specifics of marine forest assemblages before your interview. Familiarise yourself with the key species involved, their ecological roles, and the latest research trends. This will not only show your passion but also your expertise in the field.
✨Prepare for Collaborative Questions
Since this role involves working with external partners and leading teams, be ready to discuss your collaborative experiences. Think of examples where you've successfully worked in a team or led a project, and how you navigated challenges. This will demonstrate your ability to work effectively in a diverse environment.
✨Showcase Your Research Skills
Be prepared to talk about your previous research, especially any publications in recognised journals. Highlight your experience with meta-analyses or historical assessments, as these are crucial for the role. Bring along a portfolio if possible, to visually support your claims.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
At the end of the interview, don’t forget to ask questions that show your interest in the project and the team. Inquire about the specific goals of the OCEAN CITIZEN project or how the team collaborates across Europe. This shows you're not just interested in the position, but also in contributing meaningfully to the research.