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 unique opportunity to lead impactful fundraising initiatives in a collaborative and purpose-driven environment. With generous benefits, including flexible working options and a strong commitment to employee wellbeing, you will thrive while contributing to vital environmental research that shapes the future. Join us in making a difference, where your work directly supports the planet and its people.
Contact Details:
UK Centre for Ecology and Hydrology Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Research Chemist- Stable Isotopes
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We think you need these skills to ace Research Chemist- Stable Isotopes
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Lab Skills:When applying for a chemistry position, make sure to highlight any lab experience you've got. Mention specific techniques and instruments you've worked with, as they can set you apart from other candidates. For us, demonstrating your practical skills is as important as your theoretical knowledge!
Tailor Your CV to Chemistry:It's essential to structure your CV in a way that’s appealing for a chemistry role. Highlight relevant projects, research publications, and coursework that demonstrate your expertise. If you’ve completed specific certifications, make sure to list those as well—they can really boost your chances!
Craft a Chemistry-Focused Cover Letter:In your cover letter, share your enthusiasm for the field of chemistry and why you want to work at UK Centre for Ecology and Hydrology. Talk about any research or projects that inspire you, and express your willingness to contribute to the team. We love seeing genuine passion for chemistry in applications!
Include Relevant References:Since chemistry roles can be quite specific, having reference letters from professors or previous employers in the field can be a huge plus. Make sure to include contacts who can vouch for your skills and dedication, as it adds credibility to your application.
How to prepare for a job interview at UK Centre for Ecology and Hydrology
✨Know Your Experiments
Get ready to chat about your hands-on experience in the lab. We should be prepared to discuss specific experiments we've conducted, the results, and any challenges we faced. This shows them we don't just know the theory but can apply it in practice!
✨Master the Technical Speak
Brush up on the relevant terminology and concepts in chemistry. Make sure we can discuss different chemical processes, analytical techniques, and safety protocols fluently, as they might throw some technical questions our way. Being precise and confident can really set us apart!
✨Show Off Your Projects
Make a portfolio showcasing our best lab work and any research projects we've been involved in. It's a great way to demonstrate our skills and passion for chemistry. We should tailor it to highlight the aspects most relevant to UK Centre for Ecology and Hydrology and the Research Chemist- Stable Isotopes role.
✨Be Ready for Problem Solving
Expect some scenario-based questions where we might need to solve chemical problems on the spot. They could ask about unexpected results or how to improve a process. Let's practice thinking on our feet and explaining our thought process clearly!
