Ecologist in Lancaster

Do you have a passion for freshwater ecosystems and want to contribute to important monitoring and research to understand how they are responding to environmental change and management? We’re excited to offer an opportunity for a Freshwater Ecology Assistant to join our enthusiastic and dedicated team of ecologists within the Environmental Pressures and Responses group, based in Lancaster. A significant part of this role is field‑based, making it perfect for someone who enjoys working outdoors and doesn’t mind braving all weathers. You’ll travel to sites across the UK, with some of your time spent in the stunning English Lake District. Here, you’ll collect vital samples and measurements through a variety of freshwater surveys - both on land and from boats. Back in the lab, you’ll transform your fieldwork into meaningful insights, using a range of computer‑based tools to analyse data. You’ll also play an active role in larger‑scale outdoor experiments, working alongside a supportive, hands‑on team with a practical, can‑do attitude.

You’ll contribute to nationally important environmental monitoring and applied research. You could be involved in the long‑term monitoring of the iconic Cumbrian lakes, helping to build vital evidence on how these freshwater systems are changing over time. You may also support innovative approaches such as using environmental DNA (eDNA) to monitor biodiversity and detect rare or vulnerable species, including work to protect Arctic charr in the Lake District. Alongside this, you may work with sensor‑based technologies to understand short‑term changes in catchment water quality, generating high‑resolution data that informs both scientific understanding and practical environmental management.

We’re looking for someone confident working outdoors and within laboratory environments, with experience in water quality assessment, aquatic ecosystem monitoring, and analysis. You should also be comfortable driving 4x4s to access field sites - which may sometimes be remote. A key part of the role involves making sense of the data you collect - interpreting results, applying modelling techniques, and reporting on ecological change. This means you’ll also need confidence with computer programming and statistical methods.

Your main responsibilities will include:

• Supporting a mix of campaign-based and routine fieldwork, from boat-based long-term ecosystem monitoring on the lakes of the English Lake District to hands‑on sampling at a large-scale experimental facility.
• Carrying out laboratory analysis of water samples to determine their chemical properties and plankton communities.
• Contributing to research project reporting by summarising and visualising data, and supporting interpretation to turn complex results into clear, usable insights.

In this role, you’ll have the autonomy to drive your own work forward, using your judgement to know when to dive in independently and when to reach out for guidance. You’ll be a collaborative team player who enjoys working closely with colleagues to plan, deliver and communicate impactful research projects. You’ll bring strong organisational skills, confidently navigating a dynamic mix of short‑term priorities and long‑term goals. If you enjoy variety, teamwork, and contributing to meaningful research, you’ll feel right at home here. This role is also a great fit for someone keen to grow and take the next step in their career. You’ll have access to high‑quality training and development opportunities to support both your personal and professional progression.

For the role of Freshwater Ecology Assistant we’re looking for somebody who has:

• A qualification in environmental science, ecology, geography or zoology (e.g. HND/Degree).
• Proven experience of interpreting complex data and knowledge of statistical methods (e.g. ANOVA, correlation, regression).
• Confident practical field (lake and river fieldwork) and laboratory experience (i.e., chemical analysis, concentration calculations, species identification).
• Experience of computer programming such as Python, R, FORTRAN, VBA.
• UK manual driving licence (please ensure this is visible in your CV on in your application form).

We would be delighted if you also bring some of the following skills or experience. These are desirable rather than essential, so please don’t be discouraged from applying if you don’t meet all of them:

• Experience of identifying phytoplankton and/or zooplankton, and/or freshwater macroinvertebrates.
• Experience of collecting and processing samples for eDNA.
• An understanding of the importance of budgetary control and value for money.
• Previous experience with boat handling and towing trailers.

UKCEH offers opportunities for hybrid working, though it is anticipated that the post holder will work for a significant proportion of their time on site to participate in laboratory and field work. You’ll be joining a leading independent, not-for-profit research institute that’s committed to recruiting talented people like you, progressing your career and giving you the support you need to thrive at UKCEH. Our science makes a real difference, enabling people and the environment to prosper, and enriching society. We are the custodians of a wealth of environmental data, collected by UKCEH and its predecessors over the course of more than 60 years.

Working for UKCEH is rewarding. We appreciate the continuous dedication and contributions of our staff, which is why we provide a comprehensive benefits package that includes financial incentives and wellbeing-oriented perks, such as:

• 27 days annual leave (rising to 29 days after 5 years’ service) plus 3 days for Christmas closure.
• Flexible and hybrid working arrangements (role dependant).
• Peer reward and recognition scheme.
• Enhanced maternity and paternity leave.
• 24-hour, 365-day support with physical, mental, social, health or financial issues and much more...