Research Associate in Portsmouth

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The University of Portsmouth is a global employer of choice where exceptional people create, share and apply knowledge that makes a difference. Experience the pride of being part of a select group – one of only four universities in the south-east of England to achieve a prestigious Gold rating in the Teaching Excellence Framework. Additionally, we proudly rank among the top 140 universities globally in the Times Higher Young University World Rankings. Ambition, Responsibility and Openness drive our every endeavour. Join our esteemed institution with a proven track record of success, and where dedication to excellence is key. We want people to make their mark in a professional community that truly values people, innovation, and achievement.

The Role:

We are seeking to recruit a Research Associate to work on the Catching Tope, species recovery fund project. Collecting conservation‑focussed data requires significant investment (time/money). Using existing minimal‑cost citizen science methods (e.g. CAST project https://castproject.co.uk/ ) this project will identify ecological ‘hotspots’ to inform regional protection supported by tagging. Together with the interrogation of commercial and angling records, this project will generate pressure‑reduction and spatial management strategies to identify remedial actions/recovery solutions for tope. The post holder will undertake all components of the data/experimental process (based in the Solent and southern England), working closely with the funder (Natural England), project partners (Cefas, Angling Spirit) as well as local stakeholders to deliver activities. You will have a postgraduate qualification in marine science and ecosystems/fisheries and elasmobranchs experience. This post is funded by Natural England’s species recovery fund. A driving licence valid for the UK and willingness to work flexible hours are essential. The post is based at the Institute of Marine Sciences (IMS), which is an internationally renowned marine centre providing research (Marine Environmental Science Research Group) supporting over 200 staff, undergraduates and postgraduates, but with strong interdisciplinary links across the University e.g. Centre for Blue Governance (Centre for Blue Governance). Portsmouth is a dynamic and innovative place to work and study, and the University is committed to delivering an excellent student experience in conjunction with world‑class research. Whilst there is a need to be in Portsmouth a few days a week, hybrid working is available for this role. The interviews are currently anticipated to be held on 24 September 2026. This appointment is offered on a fixed‑term basis for a maximum of 30 months and will end on or before 30 March 2029. The successful candidate will be working with Professor Gordon Watson (Principal Investigator). If you have any queries regarding this position, please contact Professor Watson at gordon.watson@port.ac.uk.

Discover the advantages of joining our university

We offer a range of attractive benefits and opportunities to enhance your work experience:

• Competitive salary, including incremental progression within your scale.
• Generous leave entitlement of 32–35 days a year, plus bank holidays, and an additional Christmas closure.
• Family‑friendly policies supporting flexible working.
• Staff discounts and loyalty schemes.
• Staff car parking and discounted public travel.
• Excellent training and development opportunities.
• Recreation facilities, including discounted gym membership, food on campus schemes, use of the Library and staff social activities.

Salary Information

New appointments will routinely be made to the entry spine point (minimum) for the advertised grade, from where the individual will (in addition to receiving annual cost-of-living-related increases) progress through the pay range to the maximum for the grade, within a reasonable timeframe. This ensures fairness, consistency and transparency in our pay structures. A higher starting salary or market supplement may be available for a truly exceptional candidate when circumstances fully justify a departure from our normal policy.

UKVI Statement

Prior to submitting your application, kindly ensure that you can either demonstrate or acquire the necessary right to work in the UK. If you currently do not possess the right to work in the UK, please be aware that our offer of employment is conditional upon you obtaining it.

ED&I Statement

We are committed to upholding the University’s values of being ambitious, open and responsible, in an inclusive working environment that promotes dignity and respect. Please note that this vacancy may be closed earlier than advertised, so early applications are advised.

University House, Winston Churchill Ave, Portsmouth PO1 2UP