Research Fellow (Global Biodiversity) in Manchester

Applications are invited for a 3‑year research fellowship position in Global Biodiversity at Manchester Metropolitan University, within the Department of Natural Sciences. The Department covers Biology, Chemistry, Environmental Science, and Geography and is a thriving hub of interdisciplinary research focused on clean energy, environmental change, sustainability, species conservation, healthy ageing, and socioeconomic, cultural and political change.

About The Project: This Fellowship in Global Biodiversity supports internationally renowned biodiversity researchers in the Department of Natural Sciences. It will explore the underlying drivers of the evolution of functional traits and their relevance to macro‑ecology and conservation.

You Will Benefit From a Three‑Year Development Programme Including:

• Exceptional research environment and facilities to support your ambitions
• Competitive salary, excellent pension and holiday entitlement, enhanced family leave and more
• Access to a three‑year development programme underpinned by the Leadership Lens on the Vitae Researcher Development Framework, including mentorship and coaching sessions
• Diverse teams, colleagues and staff networks

We expect candidates to come with a vision for a research programme that complements research activity at Manchester Met. A brief outline (no more than 2 pages) should be included in your covering letter and will be discussed at interview. Successful candidates will refine their approach with input from relevant researchers in the department.

About The Role & Team: You will join a team of evolutionary biologists and ecologists and be expected to become an active member of the Species Biology and Conservation group within our identified area of research strength in Biodiversity and Environmental Resilience, led by Dr Hannah Mossman.

Key Responsibilities: The main purpose of this role is to lead the development of quality research in global biodiversity. This involves preparing, conducting and recording research, experiments and/or field work, analysing, interpreting and disseminating findings to appropriate groups. You will lead the development of new areas in species diversification, organismal traits and applied conservation, and promote the wider work of the team and institution. While the primary responsibility is to deliver the agreed research project, opportunities to contribute to teaching (up to 6 hours per week) will be available.

Key Skills & Experiences: You will have a PhD in a relevant discipline and some post‑doctoral experience, demonstrating depth of global biodiversity knowledge and a track record of professional development. You should be proficient in the use of relevant software and data management techniques linked to your proposed project. More generally, you should have experience developing collaborative relationships, preparing funding applications to external bodies, and publishing your own research.

Application & Assessment Process: Submit a CV and a covering letter detailing your suitability and initial project ideas for the evolution of functional traits on the application portal. Informal enquiries may be directed to Dr Hannah Mossman (mossman@mmu.ac.uk). Only applications including a cover letter will be considered at shortlisting stage. Successful candidates will be asked to give a 10‑minute pre‑recorded presentation on a research or education innovation before the final interview.

Manchester Metropolitan University fosters an inclusive culture of belonging that promotes equity and celebrates diversity. We welcome applications from local and international communities, including BAME individuals, disabled people and LGBTQIA+ individuals. We support a range of flexible working arrangements, including hybrid and tailored schedules, which can be discussed with your line manager. If you require reasonable adjustments during the recruitment process or in your role, please let us know so we can provide appropriate support. Manchester Met is a Disability Confident Leader and will offer an interview to disabled applicants meeting the essential criteria as listed in the attached Job Description for the vacancy.