Microplastic pollution laboratory assistant

jobs24.co.uk; Wallingford; On-site; GBP 28,000 - 30,000; Full time

Job summary

Join a pioneering team dedicated to tackling environmental challenges through cutting-edge research on microplastics. This role offers an exciting opportunity to contribute to significant projects that investigate the impact of microplastics on ecosystems. You will be involved in the preparation and analysis of environmental samples, utilizing advanced spectroscopic techniques to uncover vital data. As part of a collaborative environment, you will enhance your skills in sample management, data curation, and scientific communication. If you are passionate about the natural environment and eager to learn, this position is perfect for you.

Qualifications

• Experience in sample management and spectroscopic analysis is essential.
• Must be able to communicate effectively and work well in a team.

Responsibilities

• Manage and analyze environmental samples for microplastics.
• Conduct routine lab measurements and participate in fieldwork.

Skills

Sample management

Spectroscopic analysis

Data manipulation and curation

Fieldwork participation

Problem-solving

Time management

Communication skills

Teamwork

Education

Degree in Environmental Science or related field

Tools

Fourier-transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy

Laser Direct Infrared (LDIR) microscopy

Job description

This is an exciting opportunity to join our internationally recognised Ecotoxicology and Chemical Risk team to assist in the operation of our microplastics analytical facility. The role will support the delivery of projects that investigate the presence of microplastics in the environment and to understand their sources and possible effects. The role will be to deliver the preparation and processing of environmental samples as well as performing spectroscopic analysis.

Responsibilities

• Sample management, from coordination with field site managers, collection and transport to the laboratory, storage arrangements, sample processing, clean-up and data acquisition.
• Running microplastic sample analysis workflows (drying, weighing, wet sieving, vacuum filtration, chemical extractions) for a wide range of environmental samples.
• Spectroscopic analysis including Fourier-transform infrared (FTIR) and Laser Direct Infrared (LDIR) microscopy for the detection of microplastics in environmental samples.
• Data manipulation and curation to share at internal team meetings and for preparation of customer/funder reports and scientific papers.
• Routine lab measurements such as pH, water holding capacity of soils, acidification procedures, sample handling and preservation etc.
• Participating in fieldwork for sample collection.
• Managing laboratory spaces including equipment maintenance, stock control and purchasing of equipment and chemicals for the laboratory.
• Assist in running experiments into the effects of legacy and emerging chemical threats such as microplastics, nanomaterials, metals and pesticides on species and ecosystems.
• Active team member in coordinating and delivering multiple projects, primarily in the theme of microplastics, to research funders and commercial customers.

The role will contribute to multiple research projects. The successful candidate will be comfortable carrying out analyses on their own. You should have the confidence to attempt to resolve problems, but also know when to seek advice or instruction when necessary. You will be able to organise and manage your own time effectively and communicate well with other people about your work, contributing to the communication of the value of UKCEH's work both internally and externally. You will be a team player, working with others in your team and project partners across different projects.

Additional Accountabilities

• Proactively contribute suggestions or ideas for research or method development within your Group or project meetings.
• Communicating your work and science through written reports and presentations both at internal project meetings and external meetings/conferences.
• Participating in organisation-wide forums/schemes as required.

Key Behaviours

Key behaviours are linked to the UKCEH behavioural framework and include Excellence - Delivering world class science supporting global environmental challenges; valued by stakeholders, and meeting funder requirements, Integrity - Maintaining the highest standards of research and professional ethics and impartiality & Teamwork - Working together effectively with colleagues, partners and customers to achieve long-term success.

We are looking for someone who is motivated, has an interest in the natural environment and is eager to learn more about microplastic pollution and its effect on the natural world. In your role, you will be trained in microplastic detection and analysis in the environment as well as other laboratory methods and field work skills.

Job Details

• Salary: £28,125-29,636 per year
• Type: Permanent
• Hours: Full-time (37 hours per week)
• Closing date for applications: 10th February 2025

UKCEH is an independent, not-for-profit research institute. Home to over 600 scientists, supported by our experienced professional service teams, we provide the data and insights that researchers, governments, and businesses need to tackle some of the major environmental challenges we face today.