Research Associate - Ecosystem Modeller for VALMAS in Glasgow

Research Associate - Ecosystem Modeller for VALMAS in Glasgow

Glasgow Full-Time 37694 - 39906 £ / year (est.) No working from home possible
University of Strathclyde

At a Glance

  • Tasks: Model ecosystem effects of marine structures and climate change in the North Sea.
  • Company: Join a leading marine ecological modelling team at a top university.
  • Benefits: Competitive salary, professional development, and opportunities for research publication.
  • Other info: Collaborative environment with excellent networking and teaching opportunities.
  • Why this job: Make a real impact on marine conservation while advancing your career.
  • Qualifications: PhD or relevant experience in marine ecology and modelling required.

The predicted salary is between 37694 - 39906 £ per year.

Salary: £37,694 - £39,906 per annum

FTE: 1 (35 hours/week)

Term: Fixed to 31 July 2029

Closing: 8 June 2026

Do you have a passion for the oceans and marine conservation issues? Are you a proficient R-coder? Do you have a background in applied mathematics and statistics? Do you want to further your career in a leading marine ecological modelling team?

You could join the marine modelling group in the Department of Mathematics and Statistics to work on the UKRI funded VALMAS (VALuing Marine Artificial Structures) project. You will be responsible for modelling the ecosystem-scale effects of Marine Artificial Structures (MAS) alongside climate change and other human activities, especially fishing, in the North Sea. This project uses the StrathE2E marine ecosystem model.

As a Research Associate, under the general guidance of a research leader, you will:

  • Develop research objectives and proposals
  • Play a lead role in the ecosystem modelling under the VALMAS project
  • Conduct individual and/or collaborative research
  • Contribute to the development of new research methods
  • Identify sources of funding and contribute to securing funds for research, including drafting grant proposals and planning for future proposals
  • Write up research work for publication, individually or in collaboration with colleagues
  • Disseminate results via peer-reviewed journal publications and presentations at conferences
  • Join external networks to share information and ideas, inform the development of research objectives, and identify potential sources of funding
  • Collaborate with colleagues to ensure that research advances inform departmental teaching efforts
  • Supervise student projects, provide advice to students, and contribute to teaching as required
  • Contribute to developing capacity in Department/School, Faculty and/or University administrative and management functions and committees
  • Engage in continuous professional development

To be considered for the role, you will be educated to a minimum of PhD level in an appropriate discipline, or have significant relevant experience in addition to a relevant degree. You will have sufficient breadth or depth of knowledge in marine ecology and modelling and a developing ability to conduct individual research work, disseminate results, and prepare research proposals. You will have an ability to plan and organise your own workload effectively and an ability to work within a team environment. You will have excellent interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to listen, engage and persuade, and to present complex information in an accessible way to a range of audiences.

Whilst not essential for the role, applications are welcomed from candidates with relevant work experience, membership of relevant Chartered/professional bodies (including the Higher Education Academy), experience of relevant student supervision and teaching activities, and/or experience of knowledge exchange related activities.

Whilst a Post-Doctoral Research Associate is ideally sought for this position, applications from candidates who are close to PhD completion or whose award is pending are welcome. In such circumstances, the appointment will be made at Research Assistant level (grade 6) and duties will be adjusted to reflect the grade of the post. This will continue until the PhD award is confirmed, at which point the duties and grade will be revised accordingly.

Informal enquiries about the post can be directed to Dr Jack Laverick, Chancellor’s Fellow in Statistics and Data Science (jack.laverick@Strath.ac.uk).

Research Associate - Ecosystem Modeller for VALMAS in Glasgow employer: University of Strathclyde

Join a leading marine ecological modelling team at the forefront of marine conservation, where your passion for the oceans can thrive. With a supportive work culture that fosters collaboration and innovation, you will have ample opportunities for professional growth through research, teaching, and networking within the academic community. Located in a vibrant academic environment, this role offers a unique chance to contribute to impactful projects while developing your skills in a dynamic and engaging setting.

University of Strathclyde

Contact Details:

University of Strathclyde Recruitment Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫

We think this is how you could land Research Associate - Ecosystem Modeller for VALMAS in Glasgow

Tip Number 1

Network like a pro! Reach out to professionals in marine ecology and modelling on platforms like LinkedIn. Join relevant groups and engage in discussions to get your name out there.

Tip Number 2

Show off your skills! Create a portfolio showcasing your R-coding projects and any research you've done. This will give potential employers a taste of what you can bring to the table.

Tip Number 3

Prepare for interviews by brushing up on your knowledge of marine conservation and ecosystem modelling. Be ready to discuss how your background aligns with the VALMAS project and its goals.

Tip Number 4

Don't forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are proactive about their job search.

We think you need these skills to ace Research Associate - Ecosystem Modeller for VALMAS in Glasgow

R Programming
Applied Mathematics
Statistics
Ecosystem Modelling
Marine Ecology
Research Proposal Development
Grant Writing

Some tips for your application 🫡

Show Your Passion:Let us see your enthusiasm for marine conservation and ecosystem modelling right from the start. Mention any relevant projects or experiences that highlight your commitment to these issues.

Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to the role. Highlight your R-coding skills, applied mathematics background, and any experience with marine ecology. We want to see how you fit into our team!

Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter should tell us why you're the perfect fit for this position. Discuss your research interests, your approach to collaboration, and how you plan to contribute to the VALMAS project.

Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for the role. We can’t wait to hear from you!

How to prepare for a job interview at University of Strathclyde

Know Your Stuff

Make sure you brush up on your marine ecology and modelling knowledge. Familiarise yourself with the StrathE2E marine ecosystem model and be ready to discuss how it relates to the VALMAS project. Showing that you understand the project's goals will impress the interviewers.

Show Off Your R-Coding Skills

Since proficiency in R is a key requirement, prepare to demonstrate your coding skills. You might be asked to solve a problem or explain your previous projects involving R. Bring examples of your work that highlight your coding abilities and how they apply to ecosystem modelling.

Prepare for Collaboration Questions

This role involves a lot of teamwork, so expect questions about your collaborative experiences. Think of specific examples where you've worked with others to achieve research objectives or contributed to a project. Highlight your communication skills and how you engage with different audiences.

Have Your Research Ideas Ready

Be prepared to discuss your own research objectives and proposals. Think about how you can contribute to the VALMAS project and what new methods you could bring to the table. This shows initiative and a genuine interest in advancing the research team's goals.