Postdoctoral Research Assistant in Geography and Natural Sciences in Newcastle upon Tyne
Postdoctoral Research Assistant in Geography and Natural Sciences

Postdoctoral Research Assistant in Geography and Natural Sciences in Newcastle upon Tyne

Newcastle upon Tyne Full-Time 28800 - 48000 £ / year (est.) No home office possible
U

At a Glance

  • Tasks: Conduct fieldwork and develop climate models integrating Indigenous knowledge.
  • Company: Northumbria University, a leader in Geography and Natural Sciences research.
  • Benefits: Support for academic development, state-of-the-art facilities, and international collaboration.
  • Why this job: Make a real impact on climate change adaptation in the Global South.
  • Qualifications: PhD in Earth or Atmospheric Sciences; experience with meteorological data preferred.
  • Other info: Join a thriving research team and attend COP32 events in Ethiopia.

The predicted salary is between 28800 - 48000 £ per year.

The School of Geography and Natural Sciences at Northumbria University seeks to appoint a full-time Post-Doctoral Research Assistant to work with Professor Benjamin Brock, Dr Joanna Allan and a wider international team on the project: REMAID – Reframing climate change impact Modelling and Adaptation in the Global South through integration of Indigenous knowledge with climate models. The project is funded by UK Research and Innovation and aims to develop transferable methodologies for integrating Indigenous meteorological knowledge from an oral tradition into climate impact modelling.

The post-holder will conduct fieldwork, with appropriate support, in Mauritania and the Saharawi state-in-exile/refugee camps in Algeria, setting up a new regional climate monitoring network and weather hazard early warning system. Further responsibilities will involve evaluating and assisting the development of regional high-resolution climate models, and working with the wider project team in the interpretation of historic climatic information encapsulated in nomadic poetry.

The applicant will have a PhD (or have submitted their PhD by the post start date) in Earth or Atmospheric Sciences, or a related discipline, and preferably have experience of working with meteorological data and climate model outputs. Knowledge of Spanish, French or Arabic would be an advantage. The start date will be 1st June 2026, or as soon as possible thereafter.

The successful candidate will be based in the School of Geography and Natural Sciences. They will work closely with another Post-Doctoral Research Assistant who will focus on the interpretation of Indigenous knowledge and poetry relating to past climate, as well as with our international team. In addition to fieldwork, the successful candidate will attend COP32 side events in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. The appointee will join a thriving research environment, with state-of-the-art facilities in the heart of Newcastle-upon-Tyne. The appointed individual would be fully supported in their academic and career development with the possibility for both internal and external training.

Further information about the requirements of the role is available in the person specification. For an informal discussion about the post, please contact Professor Benjamin Brock. Northumbria University is an equal‑opportunities employer and welcomes applications from all sections of the community and particularly from under‑represented groups. We welcome applications from the UK and across the world. Visit our web pages for details about Financial Support for Immigration Costs. Unfortunately, the University is not able to provide relocation fees for international applicants.

To apply for this vacancy please click 'Apply Now'. Your application should include a covering letter and a CV.

Postdoctoral Research Assistant in Geography and Natural Sciences in Newcastle upon Tyne employer: University of Northumbria

Northumbria University offers an exceptional work environment for the Postdoctoral Research Assistant role, fostering a culture of collaboration and innovation within the School of Geography and Natural Sciences. With state-of-the-art facilities in Newcastle-upon-Tyne, employees benefit from comprehensive support for academic and career development, alongside opportunities to engage in impactful research that integrates Indigenous knowledge with climate science. The university is committed to diversity and inclusion, making it an attractive employer for individuals seeking meaningful contributions to global challenges.
U

Contact Detail:

University of Northumbria Recruiting Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫

We think this is how you could land Postdoctoral Research Assistant in Geography and Natural Sciences in Newcastle upon Tyne

✨Tip Number 1

Network like a pro! Reach out to your contacts in the geography and natural sciences field. Attend conferences, workshops, or even local meet-ups. You never know who might have a lead on a postdoc position or can introduce you to someone who does.

✨Tip Number 2

Get your research out there! Present your work at seminars or webinars. Sharing your findings not only boosts your visibility but also shows your passion and expertise in the field. Plus, it’s a great way to connect with potential collaborators.

✨Tip Number 3

Don’t shy away from informal chats! If you see a job that interests you, reach out to the team or the hiring manager for a quick chat. Ask about the project, the team dynamics, or any specific skills they’re looking for. It shows initiative and helps you stand out.

✨Tip Number 4

Apply through our website! We’ve got loads of opportunities waiting for you. Make sure your CV and cover letter are tailored to the role, highlighting your relevant experience and skills. Let’s get you that postdoc position!

We think you need these skills to ace Postdoctoral Research Assistant in Geography and Natural Sciences in Newcastle upon Tyne

Fieldwork
Meteorological Data Analysis
Climate Modelling
Indigenous Knowledge Integration
High-Resolution Climate Models
Data Interpretation
Research Methodologies
Communication Skills
Collaboration
Knowledge of Spanish
Knowledge of French
Knowledge of Arabic
Adaptability
Project Management

Some tips for your application 🫡

Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Make sure to highlight your relevant experience and how it aligns with the REMAID project. We want to see your passion for integrating Indigenous knowledge with climate models, so don’t hold back!

Tailor Your CV: When you’re putting together your CV, make it specific to the role. Focus on your PhD work and any experience with meteorological data or climate modelling. We love seeing how your background fits into our team’s goals!

Showcase Your Language Skills: If you’ve got knowledge of Spanish, French, or Arabic, make sure to mention it! These skills could give you an edge in our international project, so let us know how you can contribute.

Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the easiest way for us to receive your application. Plus, it shows you’re keen on joining our team at Northumbria University. We can’t wait to hear from you!

How to prepare for a job interview at University of Northumbria

✨Know Your Project Inside Out

Make sure you thoroughly understand the REMAID project and its objectives. Familiarise yourself with how Indigenous knowledge can be integrated into climate models, as well as the specific methodologies that might be used. This will show your genuine interest and preparedness.

✨Showcase Relevant Experience

Be ready to discuss your PhD research and any experience you have with meteorological data or climate modelling. Prepare examples of past projects where you've successfully applied your skills, especially if they relate to fieldwork or working in diverse teams.

✨Brush Up on Language Skills

If you have knowledge of Spanish, French, or Arabic, be sure to mention it during the interview. Even if you're not fluent, demonstrating your willingness to engage with these languages can set you apart and show your commitment to working in a multicultural environment.

✨Prepare Questions for the Team

Think of insightful questions to ask about the team dynamics, the role's responsibilities, and future opportunities for development. This not only shows your enthusiasm but also helps you gauge if the position is the right fit for you.

Postdoctoral Research Assistant in Geography and Natural Sciences in Newcastle upon Tyne
University of Northumbria
Location: Newcastle upon Tyne

Land your dream job quicker with Premium

You’re marked as a top applicant with our partner companies
Individual CV and cover letter feedback including tailoring to specific job roles
Be among the first applications for new jobs with our AI application
1:1 support and career advice from our career coaches
Go Premium

Money-back if you don't land a job in 6-months

>