Lecturer in Marine Conservation

University of Plymouth; Plymouth; Hybrid; GBP 40,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading university in marine sciences in Plymouth is seeking a Lecturer in Marine Conservation. The role involves conducting teaching for new programs, developing research portfolios, and engaging in interdisciplinary studies. Candidates should have a relevant doctoral degree, experience in marine conservation, and strong quantitative skills. Flexible working arrangements available.

Benefits

35 Days Annual Leave

Generous pension scheme

Cycle to Work & Electric Car Scheme

Employee Assistance Programme

Development opportunities

Enhanced family leave

Flexible working

Retailer discounts

On-site nursery

Qualifications

• Experience at postdoctoral or equivalent level with a proven research track record.
• Active research in marine vertebrate/seabird ecology and conservation.
• Ability to obtain an ATAS Certificate if required.

Responsibilities

• Conduct teaching aligned to upcoming Marine Conservation programs.
• Develop a successful research portfolio within the Marine Conservation Research Group.
• Engage with policy and participate in interdisciplinary research.

Skills

Marine Conservation

Marine Biology

Spatial Ecology

Policy Engagement

Quantitative Skills

Education

Relevant doctoral degree

Job description

Overview

About the role. This is an exciting chance to be part of a progressive and cutting-edge University in a beautiful location, where you can really make a difference. The School of Biological and Marine Sciences at the University of Plymouth is seeking to appoint a new Lecturer in Marine Conservation. You will have expertise within the field of marine conservation and marine biology or policy, and be a highly motivated and dynamic academic who seeks the opportunity to build a career in a University with an international reputation in marine conservation. We are particularly interested in applicants with expertise in MPA management, spatial ecology, marine vertebrate/seabird conservation/ecology. You will be expected to develop a successful research portfolio within our Marine Conservation Research Group.

Based in the Faculty of Science and Engineering, the School of Biological and Marine Sciences connects research to real world problems to enable students to achieve their ambitions. The University benefits from world-class research facilities such as the Marine Station, a fleet of research vessels and the Scientific Diving Unit, and is located in the UK’s first National Marine Park.

The successful candidate may be required to obtain an ATAS Certificate prior to this research being undertaken.

Responsibilities

• Conduct teaching aligned to two new programmes planned for 2026: Marine Conservation BSc, and Marine Vertebrate Ecology and Conservation MSc, with additional teaching in the MSc in Marine Conservation and BSc in Ocean Science and Marine Conservation. There is also the opportunity to contribute to teaching across the school including overseas field courses.
• Develop and deliver high-quality teaching and supervision that complements the School’s research strengths.
• Develop a successful research portfolio within the Marine Conservation Research Group and contribute to research outputs and REF submission.
• Engage with policy and practice in marine conservation and participate in interdisciplinary research within the University’s strategic Institutes.
• Collaborate with colleagues across the University to deliver impactful, real-world research contributions.

Qualifications and Experience

• Relevant doctoral degree and experience at postdoctoral or equivalent level with a proven research track record demonstrated through high-quality outputs likely to contribute to the UK REF submission.
• Good quantitative skills and active research in areas such as marine vertebrate/seabird ecology and conservation, applied marine conservation ecology, spatial management and MPAs, fisheries ecology and management, marine conservation policy and practice, or society and sustainability in marine environments.
• Ability to obtain or already hold an ATAS Certificate if required.
• Willingness to be on site 3 days a week (with flexibility for some remote work).

Working Environment

The University of Plymouth has a Bronze Athena SWAN award and participates in a triple strategic Research Institute framework: the Marine Institute, the Sustainable Earth Institute, and the Plymouth Institute of Health and Care Research. You will contribute to the University’s internationally recognised research strengths and collaborate across disciplines to address today’s global challenges.

Application Process

Please apply online, demonstrating how you meet the essential criteria outlined in the knowledge, qualifications, training, and experience elements of the job description in your supporting statement. Following the closing date of the vacancy, you will be notified on the outcome of your application in due course.

Anticipated Interview Date: Monday 3 November 2025.

Our Offer

• Generous annual leave: 35 Days Annual Leave plus Bank Holidays & Closure Days
• Generous pension scheme
• Cycle to Work & Electric Car Scheme
• Employee Assistance Programme
• Development opportunities
• Enhanced family leave
• Flexible working
• Retailer discounts
• On-site nursery

A summary of our comprehensive benefits can be viewed here. A relocation package may be available to the successful candidate, conditions apply.