At a Glance
- Tasks: Develop geochemical proxies to study rock organic carbon oxidation in various environments.
- Company: Join a leading research team at the University of Southampton and Oxford.
- Benefits: 38 days annual leave, excellent pension scheme, childcare services, and travel discounts.
- Other info: Collaborative environment with opportunities for publication and career development.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on understanding Earth's carbon cycle through innovative research.
- Qualifications: PhD or nearing completion in geochemistry or related fields; experience with analytical techniques required.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 £ per year.
Working with Professor Robert Hilton, Professor Julie Cosmidis, and collaborators at the University of Southampton, the successful candidate will focus on developing and applying geochemical proxies to understand rock organic carbon oxidation in both modern and ancient environments. The research will involve the application of ramped oxidation and/or Raman spectromicroscopy techniques, the analysis of large geochemical datasets, and the development of new approaches for quantifying carbon cycle feedbacks through Earth's history.
The postholder will join the Earth Surface Geochemistry group at Oxford and work within a wider collaborative team of researchers across the UK and internationally. The role offers opportunities for publication, conference participation, interdisciplinary collaboration, and career development within a leading research environment. This is a laboratory‑based position linked to the analysis of geological and environmental materials, requiring regular on‑site attendance in Oxford.
Qualifications:
- PhD/DPhil or close to completion in a relevant discipline (e.g., geochemistry, Earth sciences, chemistry, physics).
- Experience in ramped oxidation and/or thermal methods for characterising organic matter reactivity, or Raman spectromicroscopy for analysing organic matter structure.
- Experience processing and interpreting large analytical datasets.
- Knowledge of biogeochemical processes affecting organic matter cycling.
- Familiarity with laboratory procedures for sediment and organic matter analysis.
Location & Term:
School of Geography and the Environment, South Parks Road, Oxford, OX1 3QY. Fixed term until 30 September 2028, full‑time (1 FTE, 37.5 hours).
Benefits:
- An excellent contributory pension scheme
- 38 days annual leave
- A comprehensive range of childcare services
- Family leave schemes
- Cycle loan scheme
- Discounted bus travel and Season Ticket travel loans
Post Doctoral Research Associate in Biogeochemistry in Oxford employer: University of Oxford
The University of Southampton offers an exceptional work environment for the Post Doctoral Research Associate in Biogeochemistry, fostering a culture of collaboration and innovation. With access to cutting-edge research facilities and a supportive team, employees benefit from extensive professional development opportunities, including publication and conference participation. Located in the vibrant city of Oxford, the role provides a unique chance to contribute to impactful research while enjoying a generous benefits package that includes 38 days of annual leave and a contributory pension scheme.
