Post Doctoral Research Assistant (Fixed-Term) - CRISIS Project

Bournemouth University; England; Hybrid; GBP 34,000 - 42,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Salary with progression

Defined benefit pension

30 days leave + holidays

Hybrid working

Job summary

The European eel project at Bournemouth University’s Human Computer Interaction Research Group seeks a Postdoctoral Research Assistant to lead research on glass eels and elvers across southwest England as part of the CRISIS project.

You will conduct fieldwork and laboratory analyses, including otolith microstructure and stable isotope methods, and help coordinate project delivery with internal colleagues and external partners.

Qualifications

• PhD in fish ecology or related discipline.
• Experience with fieldwork in rivers and estuaries.
• Experience with otolith microstructure and stable isotope methods is desirable.
• Driving licence required.

Responsibilities

• Lead fieldwork and laboratory research on eel dispersal, ecology, age and growth, and parasitology.
• Coordinate research activities and project management with colleagues and external partners.

Skills

Fieldwork

Laboratory research

Otolith microstructure

Stable isotope analysis

Driving licence

Publication record

Organisational skills

Independent & collaborative work

Education

PhD in fish ecology or aquatic biology

Job description

About the role

The European eel is critically endangered, and generating new understandings on its continental life stages is crucial to the recovery of populations. As Postdoctoral Research Assistant on the externally funded CRISIS project, you will lead research uncovering the ecology and demography of glass eels and elvers in rivers across southwest England.

You will lead fieldwork and laboratory research investigating eel dispersal, trophic ecology, age and growth, and parasitology. Using otolith microstructure, you will assess age and growth rates, while stable isotope analysis will help reveal the trophic relationships and movements of glass eels and elvers entering these rivers. The role also offers opportunities to support project delivery, coordinating research and project management tasks with internal colleagues and external partners.

You will hold a PhD (or be close to completion) in fish ecology, aquatic biology or a closely related discipline. You will be capable of completing fieldwork in lowland rivers and upper estuaries, and detailed laboratory analyses, ideally with experience in otolith microstructure and stable isotope methods, and hold a driving licence. A strong publication record appropriate to your career stage is advantageous, alongside excellent organisational skills and the ability to work both independently and collaboratively.

This post is available on a fixed-term basis until 31/03/2029.

About the department

The Faculty of Health, Environment and Medical Sciences is a vibrant and innovative environment containing 3 academic Schools: the School of Health and Care; the School of Allied Health and Exercise Science; and the School of Life and Environmental Sciences.

This particular post sits within the School of Life and Environmental Sciences, which offers a broad range of hands-on, practical courses across Archaeology, Biology, Ecology, Environmental Science, Forensic Science, Geography, Biomedical and Medical Sciences, as well as the Physician Associate programme. Our broad spectrum of disciplines fosters collaboration and innovation, with cutting-edge research that delivers real-world impact across both environmental and health sectors. From uncovering insights about our past to protecting and preserving our planet for future generations, and advancing the frontiers of modern medicine.

About us

At Bournemouth University, our motto is Discere Mutari Est - To learn is to change. Guided by our BU2035 strategy, we are building a future-focused university that empowers people to thrive, embraces innovation, and creates lasting impact through education, research and partnerships.

Our success is driven by our people. We are committed to creating an inclusive and supportive environment where everyone feels they belong, can develop their potential and contribute to work that makes a difference. Whether through advancing knowledge, improving lives, strengthening communities or supporting economic growth, our staff play a vital role in shaping the future.

We are committed to attracting, developing and retaining talented people who share our values of being collaborative and inclusive, innovative and creative, empowering and ambitious, and responsible and transformative. Flexible working and job share arrangements will be considered to support a healthy work-life balance.

More than just a job, working at BU gives you the opportunity to make a meaningful impact, alongside access to a fantastic range of staff benefits.

Core Package

• PAY - a competitive salary with opportunities for pay progression
• PENSION - a valuable defined benefit pension with generous employer contributions
• HOLIDAY - Annual leave entitlement of 30 days plus bank holidays and winter closure (pro rata if part time)
• WORK LIFE BALANCE - flexible working arrangements including opportunities for hybrid working and flexitime (role dependant)

You will also have access to a wide range of voluntary benefits:

• Health & Wellbeing: Employee assistance programme, dental care scheme, health cash plan
• Financial & Discounts: Discounts including a reduction of fees for family members who study at BU
• Travel: Cycle to work scheme, secure bike stores, showers and lockers, free bus travel between campuses, discounted bus travel
• Sports & Activities: Sport BU has a wide range of activities which staff can access
• Family: Enhanced maternity, paternity and adoption leave, on-site nursery with discounts for BU staff
• Modern, vibrant campus locations: Bright and flexible work and meeting spaces, with on-site food outlets and coffee shops