At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead innovative research on biodiversity, food systems, and health at UCL's People and Nature Lab.
- Company: Join UCL's Division of Biosciences, a hub for cutting-edge biological research and teaching.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, professional development, and access to state-of-the-art facilities.
- Other info: Opportunities for interdisciplinary collaboration and community engagement.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on ecosystems and health while collaborating with diverse experts.
- Qualifications: PhD in a relevant field and experience in research-led teaching.
The predicted salary is between 55000 - 65000 £ per year.
The Division of Biosciences at UCL is a major centre for research and teaching in the biological sciences, fostering curiosity-driven research that spans molecules to ecosystems. Within Biosciences, the Research Department of Genetics, Evolution and Environment (GEE) provides a world-leading environment for research and teaching across evolution, human genetics, healthy ageing, biodiversity and computational biology. We are recruiting a Lecturer (Assistant Professor equivalent) or Associate Professor in Biodiversity, Future Food Systems and Health to strengthen GEE’s capacity in ecosystems, food systems and health, supporting the growth of the Centre for Biodiversity and Environment Research’s People and Nature Lab at UCL East.
Environmental change, biodiversity loss and food-system instability are creating new challenges for ecosystem, animal and human health. Yet the dynamics linking these processes remain poorly understood across natural, urban and managed systems, limiting our ability to predict risk and design effective interventions. To address this, GEE seeks to appoint a new academic colleague to build an ambitious research and teaching programme at the interface of biodiversity, ecosystems, food systems and health.
Based at the People and Nature Lab at UCL East, the successful candidate will develop experimental, place-based and/or quantitative approaches to understand how ecological systems can support resilience, sustainability and health across urban, natural and managed settings. This may include work on plant, pollinator, microbial or environmental health; ecological interactions and intervention; environmental monitoring and surveillance; or predictive and quantitative approaches to One Health. The post offers opportunities to use new state-of-the-art greenhouse, vertical farming and pollinator facilities at UCL East, alongside wider opportunities for field-based, urban and community-engaged research.
The successful candidate will establish (Grade 8) or expand (Grade 9) an independent, collaborative research programme within GEE with opportunities to contribute to a distinctive living lab environment at UCL East, and work across UCL with colleagues in computer science, geography, and health. We also welcome exceptional candidates working at the broader One Health interface, including those whose research links to wider strengths across GEE. The post holder will be expected to secure competitive research funding, supervise and mentor postgraduate researchers, contribute to research-led teaching and develop external engagement with conservation organisations, policy bodies and other partners.
You will have a PhD or equivalent qualification in a relevant field and an innovative research agenda in biodiversity, future food systems and health, with clear potential to advance interdisciplinary One Health research. You will have experience of research-led teaching at undergraduate and/or postgraduate level, with a strong interest in interdisciplinary working, external engagement and translational impact. You will also show the potential to build collaborative partnerships, attract research funding, and contribute to an inclusive and ambitious academic environment.
Lecturer / Associate Professor of Biodiversity, Future Food Systems and Health employer: UCL
UCL's Division of Biosciences offers an exceptional work environment for academics passionate about biodiversity and health, situated at the innovative UCL East campus. With access to cutting-edge facilities and a collaborative culture that encourages interdisciplinary research, employees benefit from extensive professional development opportunities and a commitment to equality, diversity, and inclusion. Join us to make a meaningful impact on global challenges while advancing your career in a supportive and dynamic academic setting.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Lecturer / Associate Professor of Biodiversity, Future Food Systems and Health
✨Explore University Career Fairs
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✨Join Biology Communities
Get involved in local biology associations or online forums—these are great for networking and hearing about job openings before they hit the mainstream. Engaging in meaningful discussions can help us stand out and get noticed by hiring managers in the biology sector.
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✨Show Off Your Research Skills
When you land that interview, be ready to flaunt your research experience and practical skills. Discuss any lab work, projects, or internships that demonstrate your expertise in biology. We want to make sure the interviewers see exactly why we're a great fit for the role at UCL.
We think you need these skills to ace Lecturer / Associate Professor of Biodiversity, Future Food Systems and Health
Some tips for your application 🫡
Showcase Your Lab Skills:In the biology field, it's super important to highlight any relevant lab skills. Make sure to include techniques you’ve mastered, like PCR or chromatography, right in your CV. This helps us see your hands-on experience and how you can contribute at UCL.
Tailor Your Cover Letter with Passion:When writing your cover letter, let your enthusiasm for biology shine through! Share specific examples of projects or research that fuel your passion. It’s the perfect way to convey your motivation and fit for the role of Lecturer / Associate Professor of Biodiversity, Future Food Systems and Health at UCL.
Include Relevant Certifications:If you’ve got any certifications related to biology—like Good Laboratory Practice (GLP) or even specific software for data analysis—be sure to mention those. They can really set you apart from other applicants and show us you’re dedicated to your professional development.
Highlight Team Projects and Communication Skills:Biology often involves collaboration, so don’t shy away from mentioning any team projects you've worked on in your CV. Emphasise how you communicated findings or contributed in group settings. This gives us insight into how you’d fit into our team at UCL.
How to prepare for a job interview at UCL
✨Brush Up on Your Technical Knowledge
Get ready to dive deep into the scientific concepts related to your field! For a biology role, you'll likely face questions about experimental design, data analysis techniques, and possibly even lab protocols. Make sure you're clear on your coursework and any practical experiences you've had.
✨Show Off Your Lab Skills
Hands-on experience can make or break an interview in biology. Be prepared to discuss your previous lab work, including techniques like PCR, gel electrophoresis, or microscopy. Bring a portfolio of your lab reports or relevant projects to really impress the hiring team at UCL.
✨Communicate Your Passion for Biology
As this is a full-time position, employers at UCL are looking for someone who is not just qualified, but truly enthusiastic about biology. Be ready to share specific moments or projects that ignited your interest in the field. A personal story can really set you apart!
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