Postdoctoral Research Assistant in Geography and Natural Sciences - Newcastle upon Tyne
Postdoctoral Research Assistant in Geography and Natural Sciences - Newcastle upon Tyne

Postdoctoral Research Assistant in Geography and Natural Sciences - Newcastle upon Tyne

Full-Time 41064 - 44322 £ / year (est.) No home office possible
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At a Glance

  • Tasks: Conduct innovative research on climate change using Indigenous knowledge and modern climate models.
  • Company: Join Northumbria University, a top-ranked research institution in Newcastle upon Tyne.
  • Benefits: Enjoy competitive salary, flexible working hours, and excellent career development opportunities.
  • Other info: Work in a vibrant research environment with state-of-the-art facilities.
  • Why this job: Make a real impact on climate adaptation while collaborating with an international team.
  • Qualifications: PhD in Earth or Atmospheric Sciences; experience with meteorological data preferred.

The predicted salary is between 41064 - 44322 £ per year.

The School of Geography and Natural Sciences at Northumbria University seeks to appoint a full-time Post-Doctoral Research Assistant to work with Professor Benjamin Brock, Dr Joanna Allan and a wider international team on the project: REframing climate change impact Modelling and Adaptation in the Global South through integration of InDigenous knowledge with climate models (REMAID). The project is funded by UK Research and Innovation. It aims to develop transferable methodologies for integrating Indigenous meteorological knowledge from an oral tradition into climate impact modelling.

The post-holder will conduct fieldwork, with appropriate support, in Mauritania and the Saharawi state-in-exile/refugee camps in Algeria, setting up a new regional climate monitoring network and weather hazard early warning system. Further responsibilities will involve evaluating and assisting the development of regional high-resolution climate models, and working with the wider project team in the interpretation of historic climatic information encapsulated in nomadic poetry.

ABOUT YOU

The applicant will have a PhD (or have submitted their PhD by the post start date) in Earth or Atmospheric Sciences, or related discipline, and preferably have experience of working with meteorological data and climate model outputs. Knowledge of Spanish, French or Arabic would be an advantage. The start date will be 1st June 2026, or as soon as possible thereafter.

ABOUT THE TEAM

The successful candidate will be based in the School of Geography and Natural Sciences. They will work closely with another Post-Doctoral Research Assistant who will focus on the interpretation of Indigenous knowledge and poetry relating to past climate, as well as with our international team. In addition to fieldwork, the successful candidate will attend COP32 side events in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. The appointee will join a thriving research environment, with state-of-the-art facilities in the heart of Newcastle-upon-Tyne. The appointed individual would be fully supported in their academic and career development with the possibility for both internal and external training.

Further information about the requirements of the role is available in the person specification. For an informal discussion about the post, please contact Professor Benjamin Brock.

Northumbria University is an equal-opportunities employer and welcomes applications from all sections of the community and particularly from under-represented groups. We welcome applications from the UK and across the world. Unfortunately, the University is not able to provide relocation fees for international applicants. To apply for this vacancy please include a covering letter and a CV.

ABOUT US

Join Northumbria University, a research-intensive institution unlocking potential and changing lives locally and globally. Named Times Higher Education's University of the Year in 2022 and Modern University of the Year in 2025, we rank top 25 in the UK for research power. With over 37,000 students from over 140 countries, we offer world-leading research, award-winning partnerships, and an outstanding student experience. We empower our exceptional staff, promoting a positive work-life balance and offering great benefits, including excellent pension schemes, flexible working, generous holiday entitlement and more.

Our Northumbria Values, co-created by our team, define who we are: Academic Excellence, Innovation, Inclusivity, Collaboration, and Ambition. Our Behaviours shape our work culture: We listen and learn, support one another, respect everyone, trust each other, and are bold. Based in Newcastle upon Tyne and London, we are an on-campus organisation and offer flexible hours and location where the role allows. We pride ourselves on diversity and inclusivity, holding numerous awards for gender and race equality, disability confidence, and research excellence.

We also hold the HR Excellence in Research award for implementing the concordat supporting the career Development of Researchers and are members of the Euraxess initiative to deliver information and support to professional researchers. The University has implemented a range of flexible working arrangements, and we are happy to explore candidate requirements as part of the recruitment process. Apply now and join a community committed to transforming society and the economy.

Postdoctoral Research Assistant in Geography and Natural Sciences - Newcastle upon Tyne employer: Northumbria University Newcastle

Northumbria University is an exceptional employer, offering a vibrant research environment in the heart of Newcastle upon Tyne, where you can thrive both academically and personally. With a strong commitment to employee development, flexible working arrangements, and a culture that values inclusivity and collaboration, we empower our staff to achieve their full potential while contributing to meaningful research that impacts communities globally.
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Contact Detail:

Northumbria University Newcastle Recruiting Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫

We think this is how you could land Postdoctoral Research Assistant in Geography and Natural Sciences - Newcastle upon Tyne

✨Tip Number 1

Network like a pro! Reach out to current or former employees at Northumbria University on LinkedIn. A friendly chat can give us insider info about the team and the role, plus it shows your genuine interest.

✨Tip Number 2

Prepare for that interview! Research the REMAID project and think about how your skills in Earth or Atmospheric Sciences can contribute. We want to see your passion for integrating Indigenous knowledge with climate models.

✨Tip Number 3

Show off your fieldwork experience! If you've worked in challenging environments or have relevant skills, make sure to highlight those. We love candidates who can adapt and thrive in diverse settings.

✨Tip Number 4

Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, we’re all about making the process smooth and straightforward for you.

We think you need these skills to ace Postdoctoral Research Assistant in Geography and Natural Sciences - Newcastle upon Tyne

Fieldwork Experience
Meteorological Data Analysis
Climate Modelling
Indigenous Knowledge Integration
High-Resolution Climate Models
Data Interpretation
Research Methodologies
Collaboration Skills
Communication Skills
Knowledge of Spanish
Knowledge of French
Knowledge of Arabic
Adaptability
Project Management

Some tips for your application 🫡

Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Make sure to highlight your relevant experience and how it aligns with the REMAID project. We want to see your passion for integrating Indigenous knowledge with climate models, so don’t hold back!

Tailor Your CV: When applying, tailor your CV to showcase your skills in Earth or Atmospheric Sciences. Include any experience with meteorological data and climate models, as well as language skills like Spanish, French, or Arabic. We love seeing how you fit into our team!

Showcase Your Research Experience: Don’t forget to include details about your research experience, especially if it relates to climate impact modelling or fieldwork. We’re looking for someone who can hit the ground running, so let us know what you’ve done!

Apply Through Our Website: Make sure to apply through our website by clicking 'Apply Now'. It’s the easiest way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity. We can’t wait to hear from you!

How to prepare for a job interview at Northumbria University Newcastle

✨Know Your Project Inside Out

Before the interview, dive deep into the REMAID project and its objectives. Familiarise yourself with the integration of Indigenous knowledge into climate models, as well as the specific methodologies being used. This will not only show your enthusiasm but also your understanding of the project's significance.

✨Showcase Relevant Experience

Be ready to discuss your PhD research and any experience you have with meteorological data or climate modelling. Prepare examples that highlight your skills in fieldwork and collaboration, especially if you've worked in diverse teams or international settings.

✨Brush Up on Language Skills

If you have knowledge of Spanish, French, or Arabic, make sure to mention it during the interview. Even if you're not fluent, showing a willingness to improve your language skills can be a big plus, especially given the project's international scope.

✨Engage with the Interviewers

Don’t hesitate to ask questions about the team dynamics or the specific challenges they face in the project. Engaging with the interviewers shows your interest in the role and helps you gauge if the environment is the right fit for you.

Postdoctoral Research Assistant in Geography and Natural Sciences - Newcastle upon Tyne
Northumbria University Newcastle
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