Phytoplankton Ecologist

UK Research and Innovation; Hartford; Hybrid; GBP 30,000 - 45,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading research organization is seeking a Phytoplankton Ecologist to conduct analyses across multiple research projects in the polar regions, including the BIOPOLE expedition. The ideal candidate will have a PhD in relevant fields and skills in laboratory analysis, microscopy, and numerical interpretation. Responsibilities include identifying field samples and working with the science team to enhance knowledge of phytoplankton ecology. This position offers flexible working opportunities and a range of employee benefits.

Benefits

30 days annual leave

Civil Service pension

Employee assistance programme

Flexible working opportunities

Cycle to work scheme

Discounted shopping access

Qualifications

• PhD or equivalent experience in biology, biochemistry, marine sciences or phytoplankton ecology.
• Laboratory analytical skills and microscopy skills.
• Numerical analysis and interpretation, with good IT skills.

Responsibilities

• Microscopy identification and enumeration of Lugol's samples.
• Processing of pigment samples and particulate organic samples.
• Flow cytometry analysis of phytoplankton and bacteria.

Skills

Laboratory analytical skills

Microscopy skills

Numerical analysis and interpretation skills

Good range of scientific computing/IT skills

Proficient in written and spoken English

Ability to work independently

Ability to prioritise tasks

Education

PhD or equivalent experience in biology, biochemistry, or marine sciences

Job description

The British Antarctic Survey (BAS), part of the Natural Environment Research Council, delivers world‑leading interdisciplinary research in the polar regions. We are seeking a Phytoplankton Ecologist to analyse field samples across multiple research projects, including the BIOPOLE expedition and studies around South Georgia. The postholder will work independently and in partnership with the Ecosystems science team, helping to build knowledge of polar phytoplankton ecology.

Contact Amanda Burson ([e-mail]) for informal enquiries.

Responsibilities

• Microscopy identification and enumeration of Lugol's samples
• Processing of pigment samples (chlorophyll a and HPLC)
• Processing of particulate organic nitrogen, phosphorous and carbon samples
• Flow cytometry analysis of phytoplankton and bacteria
• Data processing and interpretation, working with the project lead and the wider science team

Qualifications

• PhD or equivalent experience in biology, biochemistry, marine sciences or phytoplankton ecology
• Laboratory analytical skills
• Experience working with chemicals
• Microscopy skills
• Numerical analysis and interpretation skills
• Good range of scientific computing/IT skills
• Proficient in written and spoken English
• Ability to work independently and with a small team
• Ability to prioritise tasks and manage time effectively

Desirable Skills

• Knowledge of phytoplankton taxonomy
• Experience in oceanography or limnology
• Familiarity with peer‑reviewed publication process
• Experience of software packages associated with lab equipment

Security Requirements

The role holder will be required to have the appropriate level of security screening/vetting required for the role. UKRI reserves the right to run or re‑run security clearance as required during the course of employment.

Benefits

• 30 days annual leave plus bank holidays and 2.5 privilege days
• Civil Service pension (with 26% or more employer contribution, depending on your band)
• 24 hours/365 days access to an employee assistance programme (including support with physical, mental, social, health and financial issues)
• Flexible and family‑friendly working opportunities
• Cycle to work scheme
• Access to discounted shopping on a range of retail, leisure and lifestyle categories

Full consideration will be given to requests for flexible and part‑time working such as reduced or compressed hours and job sharing. Hybrid working is also supported where the nature of the role permits.