At a Glance
- Tasks: Join us in groundbreaking research on nanoplastic pollution and develop innovative methodologies.
- Company: National Oceanography Centre, a leader in ocean research and innovation.
- Benefits: Enjoy 30 days leave, generous pension, and flexible working options.
- Other info: Dynamic team environment with opportunities for career growth and international networking.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on marine ecosystems and contribute to vital environmental solutions.
- Qualifications: PhD in relevant fields and hands-on experience with nanoscale analytical techniques.
We are the National Oceanography Centre (NOC) - the UK's leading institution for integrated coastal and deep ocean research. Through our ground breaking research, collaboration, and game changing innovation we work to gain a deeper understanding of our ocean, helping every living thing on our planet flourish.
Pollution is a global challenge undermining marine resilience, ecosystem services, and human health and is a core research priority at the National Oceanography Centre. We are looking to expand our capability in cutting edge plastic pollution research and are seeking a talented and motivated Research Scientist to join our team working on nanoplastics in the marine environment.
This role will place you at the forefront of marine nanoplastic pollution research. You will contribute to the development of novel methodologies and apply cutting edge analytical techniques to detect and characterise plastic pollutants at previously unattainable scales. You will help to design and deliver laboratory and field studies, build and optimise methodological workflows, conduct multi technique sample analyses in our advanced laboratories, and lead data interpretation, publication, and communication of results to scientific audiences and stakeholders.
For your research you will have access to specialised analytical laboratories and instrumentation, an extensive archive of marine samples, and opportunities to collect additional marine samples. You will generate unprecedented insights into marine nanoplastic pollution, contribute to seagoing expeditions, and shape new approaches and research directions in this rapidly evolving field.
You will join the Marine Ecosystem Processes Group within NOC's Marine Science function in Southampton and contribute to our expanding strategic research Mission on Hazards and Pollution. We are a dynamic, multidisciplinary, and multinational team spanning early career to senior scientists and students. Our shared goal is to understand the complexity of the ocean and its response to major stressors, including climate change and anthropogenic pollution.
The position is offered at Band 6 level and provides strong opportunities for career development, including involvement in and leading future research proposals. You will have the opportunity to supervise MSc and PhD students, build a strong research profile, expand your international network, and engage with stakeholders. NOC is committed to supporting this role, which is offered as a permanent appointment.
You will hold a PhD (or equivalent research experience) in chemistry, nanoscience, nanotechnology, or materials science and will have interest to assess the scale, fate and impact of nanoplastic pollution in the marine environment. You will have solid understanding of nanoparticle properties, behaviour, interactions, and transformations; hands on experience with laboratory methods for isolating, preserving and characterising nanoparticles and strong proficiency in advanced nanoscale analytical techniques and multimodal data analysis.
Success in this role requires enthusiasm for collaborative, multidisciplinary science and a drive to apply your skills to major contemporary research challenges. A willingness to participate in sea going expeditions of several weeks in duration, and to travel overseas, are essential. Participation in sea going expeditions will require an ENG1 certificate.
We offer a generous set of benefits, including:
- 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
- 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
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.
We expect this role to qualify for a Global Talent Visa, and therefore welcome applications from candidates who require a visa. We are committed to fostering diversity and inclusion in our workplace. We actively encourage qualified candidates from all backgrounds to apply for this position.
Research Scientist - Nanoplastic Pollution in Southampton employer: The National Oceanography Centre
The National Oceanography Centre (NOC) is an exceptional employer, offering a vibrant work culture that prioritises collaboration and innovation in oceanographic research. Employees benefit from a generous pension scheme, comprehensive wellbeing support, and opportunities for professional growth while contributing to meaningful scientific advancements aboard world-class research vessels. Based in Southampton, NOC fosters a diverse and inclusive environment, ensuring every team member's voice is valued as they tackle global marine challenges together.
Contact Details:
The National Oceanography Centre Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Research Scientist - Nanoplastic Pollution in Southampton
✨Get Involved in Research Communities
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✨Utilise Professional Networks
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We think you need these skills to ace Research Scientist - Nanoplastic Pollution in Southampton
Some tips for your application 🫡
Highlight Your Research Experience:When applying for a full-time role in scientific research, make sure to emphasise your research experience prominently in your CV. Share specific projects you’ve worked on, the methodologies you used, and any significant findings. If you’ve published papers or presented at conferences, definitely include that too – it shows you’re on it in the academic world!
Tailor Your Cover Letter to the Research Area:Your cover letter should reflect your passion for the specific area of research at The National Oceanography Centre. Mention relevant experiences that align with the organisation’s goals or projects. This shows that you’ve done your homework and are genuinely interested in the position – plus, it helps us see how you’d fit into the team dynamics.
Showcase Your Data Analysis Skills:In scientific research, data analysis skills are a big deal! Make sure to detail any relevant analytical tools or software you’re familiar with, like R, Python, or statistical packages. Employers are keen to know you can handle the data-heavy elements of the role, so add specific examples where you’ve used these skills effectively.
Discuss Your Future Research Goals:In your motivation section, it’s a great idea to talk about your future research goals and how they align with the work being done at The National Oceanography Centre. This shows that you’re not just looking for any job, but rather a chance to contribute meaningfully to the field. We love to see applicants who are forward-thinking and enthusiastic about their research journey!
How to prepare for a job interview at The National Oceanography Centre
✨Showcase Your Research Skills
In scientific research, it’s crucial to demonstrate your ability to design and conduct experiments. Come armed with examples of past projects where you've developed hypotheses, collected data, and analysed results. Be ready to discuss any specific methodologies or tools you’ve used, like PCR techniques or statistical software.
✨Prepare for Technical Questions
Expect some technical questions specific to your field. Make sure you're up to speed with recent advancements in scientific research related to the role at The National Oceanography Centre. Brush up on concepts relevant to their projects and be prepared to discuss how you would approach a specific research problem or challenge they might face.
✨Know Your Publications
If you've authored or co-authored any papers, be prepared to discuss them! Highlighting your contributions to published research can really set you apart. It shows not only your expertise but also your ability to communicate complex ideas clearly, which is key in scientific research roles.
✨Exhibit Your Team Spirit
In full-time roles, collaboration is often at the heart of scientific research. Prepare examples that show how you've successfully worked in teams, dealt with conflicts, or contributed to group projects. We want to know how you can work effectively with the team at The National Oceanography Centre to drive research projects forward.
