Research Scientist - Quantitative Benthic Ecology in Southampton

Location: Southampton

Function: Marine Science

Group: Seafloor Ecosystems

Closing Date: 10/08/2026

Job Reference: NOC12226

This role will support the need to monitor benthic communities, including in MPAs, at long‑term monitoring sites and around marine infrastructure. Such monitoring is increasingly using photography for biodiversity assessment, and standards for the methods involved are developing rapidly. Human‑derived biological data is often being used to train models for automated detection and classification of organisms. Point measurements from imagery are also extrapolated over relevant areas using species distribution models.

This position will straddle quantitative ecology and marine photography methodology to move such marine monitoring forward and include application of species distribution modelling and use of AI for extracting biological data from photographs. It will contribute to new guidance for improving image‑based benthic monitoring across sectors and advising government‑adjacent bodies.

Initially, the role will be focussed on contributing to existing projects, including the NERC‑funded projects AtlantiS, ECOWind‑ACCELERATE and PAIDIVER. Activities will include the design and delivery of papers, reports and software; the production and analysis of quantitative datasets from seafloor imagery; participation in research expeditions at sea; presentation of findings at conferences and consulting/industry workshops. The post holder will be supported in developing and contributing to new research projects.

You have a PhD in biological science or a related discipline, and experience of marine ecology, ideally deep‑water benthic ecology. You have strong quantitative ecological assessment skills, including calculating biodiversity metrics and statistical comparisons, complemented by strong programming skills (in Python and/or R). You have experience of image annotation, including annotation software and are confident in using appropriate techniques for extracting biodiversity data from seafloor photographs and/or video. Experience of spatial statistics, including species distribution modelling, and automated detection and/or classification of organisms in photographs is desirable.

You manage time and resources to deliver high‑quality science to project deadlines, and are able to work collaboratively in multidisciplinary teams. You have excellent academic written communication skills, including writing and publishing papers and preparing research grant applications. You are also well‑versed in communicating findings with scientists, engineers, stakeholders and the public.

You have experience of working in the marine environment, ideally on research cruises, and be able to travel overseas.

Why NOC?

• 30 days contractual annual leave, plus 3.5 extra closure days and bank holidays
• a 10% employer contribution pension scheme
• Death in Service (3 times annual salary) provided by Aviva from day one of employment
• financial support for relocation
• a salary sacrifice scheme for electric / hybrid vehicles
• access to our Employee Assistance Programme
• access to a flexible benefits portal offering online discounts, cashback and eGift cards
• a Cycle2Work scheme allowing employees to acquire bikes and accessories
• a great working environment with a number of social events
• we are proud to be a Living Wage Employer

This position will be based in Southampton. The centre is well connected by public transport and has ample cycle parking in addition to free onsite car‑parking with over 40 EV charging points. We have a hybrid working approach where for most positions staff can work from home up to 2 days per week.

If you are interested in this position, but require a more flexible working arrangement, please contact the recruitment team using the contact details below.

Submitting an application:

Please click ‘Apply for this job’ and submit an up‑to‑date CV and cover letter highlighting your relevant experience and why you are interested in the position. Applications submitted without a cover letter may not be considered.

As part of your application, you will be asked to submit an answer to the following question: ‘Please describe your experience of a project using seafloor photography to assess benthic biodiversity, including your involvement, methods for image capture and annotation, metrics employed and the outcome.’ (max. 300 words).

We are committed to fostering diversity and inclusion in our workplace. We actively encourage qualified candidates from all backgrounds to apply for this position, as we strive to create a supportive and equitable environment where all voices are valued and heard.

Those seeking employment at NOC are considered solely on their qualifications, skills and experience, without regard to gender, gender identity, age, race, religion, disability, sex, sexual orientation, relationship status, family status (including pregnancy / maternity leave) or any other protected characteristic.

There is a guaranteed interview scheme for candidates who meet the minimum criteria of the position and declare a disability.