At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead stable isotope analysis and develop innovative methods in environmental chemistry.
- Company: Join UKCEH, a leading independent research institute focused on environmental science.
- Benefits: Generous leave, pension contributions, flexible working, and wellness support.
- Other info: Collaborative environment with opportunities for professional growth and mentorship.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on environmental issues while advancing your career.
- Qualifications: PhD in Environmental Chemistry or equivalent experience with isotopic analyses.
The predicted salary is between 50447 - 53535 £ per year.
Salary - £50,447 - £53,535 Permanent, full or part-time (>0.8 FTE). We reserve the right to close this advert early if we find the right candidate, so we encourage you to apply early.
About UKCEH
UKCEH is a leading independent research institute with over 600 scientists studying how the natural world works. We take a connected approach across land, water and air to understand environmental systems and build resilience for people and the planet.
About This Role
We have an exciting opportunity for a Research Chemist specialising in light stable isotopes (C, H, N, O & S) to lead the stable isotope analysis in the Analytical Chemistry team in Lancaster, within the acclaimed Environmental Pressures and Responses Group. This multidisciplinary team is at the forefront of understanding how pollution, land-use change, and climate pressures affect ecosystems. Working across air, land, and water, we generate high-quality evidence that directly informs action on environmental change.
Your main responsibilities will include:
- Lead and develop the Stable Isotope Facility, raising its profile within UKCEH and the wider research community, while identifying opportunities to expand isotope applications into new sectors.
- Generate income through grant applications, research bids and commercial tenders, building new scientific and business opportunities.
- Drive the development, validation and implementation of innovative analytical methods, ensuring robust SOPs and high-quality scientific standards.
- Deliver and support high-impact scientific outputs, contributing analytical expertise to publications, reports, presentations and other knowledge products.
- Oversee laboratory operations, ensuring data quality, ISO 17025 compliance, COSHH requirements, internal audits, equipment development and safe facility management.
- Line manage, mentor and develop laboratory staff, fostering technical excellence, collaboration, resilience and a high-performance culture.
What we’re looking for:
- PhD in Environmental Chemistry, or equivalent relevant qualification and/or substantial professional experience in a related laboratory environment.
- A strong understanding of fundamental ecological and/or environmental chemistry principles, particularly as they relate to the behaviour and analysis of stable isotopes.
- Proven experience in isotopic analyses with working knowledge of stable isotope analytical instruments (especially IRMS and incl. method development and optimisation).
- Specialist knowledge of method development for isotopic analysis in diverse matrices.
- Established track record of publishing in peer-reviewed journals and delivering impactful presentations at scientific conferences.
- Demonstrable success in securing research funding through competitive bids.
Working at UKCEH is genuinely rewarding. You’ll be joining a leading independent, not-for-profit research institute, where your work will have real impact. Our science helps people and the environment to prosper and informs decisions that benefit society as a whole.
What we offer
- Generous annual leave - 27 days (rising to 29 days after 5 years) +3 for Christmas closure.
- 10% employer pension contribution.
- Financial protection through life assurance and income protection.
- Enhanced family-friendly policies.
- Flexible and hybrid working options (depending on your role).
- Lifestyle perks including dental, gym, retail and cycling discounts.
- A commitment to wellbeing, supported by a range of internal initiatives.
- Peer recognition and rewards that celebrate your contribution.
- Salary sacrifice agreement benefits including Electric & Plug-in Hybrid vehicle and Cycle2Work schemes.
- Interest-free annual travel season ticket loans (terms apply).
Our commitment to inclusion
At UKCEH, we believe everyone should feel welcome and able to be themselves at work. We warmly encourage applications from people of all backgrounds, experiences and identities.
A note on sponsorship
Unfortunately, we are unable to offer visa sponsorship for this role and this does not qualify for endorsement to support a Global Talent Visa application.
Research Chemist- Stable Isotopes employer: UK Centre for Ecology and Hydrology
UKCEH is an exceptional employer, offering a collaborative and inclusive work culture where your contributions directly impact environmental research that benefits society. With generous annual leave, a strong commitment to employee wellbeing, and opportunities for professional growth, you'll thrive in a supportive environment that values excellence and teamwork. Join us in Edinburgh, Wallingford, Lancaster, or Bangor, and be part of a purpose-driven team dedicated to making a difference for people and the planet.
Contact Details:
UK Centre for Ecology and Hydrology Recruitment Team
