Post Doctoral Research Assistant in Methods for Nature

Northumbria University; Belford; On-site; GBP 30,000 - 45,000; Part time

Job summary

A leading research institution in the UK seeks an experienced PDRA with specialized skills in computing and AI, particularly in R Shiny app design and development. This part-time role (0.5FTE) supports an EU project focused on the Methodological Infrastructure of the Future Science Service for Biodiversity over 13 months. Candidates are expected to have a PhD in an appropriate discipline and familiarity with knowledge synthesis techniques. The position promotes a harmonious work-life balance and offers a range of benefits.

Benefits

Excellent pension schemes

Flexible working

Generous holiday entitlement

Qualifications

• PhD in computing or environmental science or an allied discipline required.
• Experience in R Shiny app design and development is necessary.
• Familiarity with knowledge synthesis (systematic, rapid evidence, and scoping reviews) is preferred.

Responsibilities

• Support the Principal Investigator and Work Package leaders in research activities.
• Design and deliver the Methodological Infrastructure of the Future Science Service for Biodiversity.
• Collaborate with interdisciplinary EU teams and stakeholders.

Skills

Computing and AI

R Shiny app design and development

Knowledge synthesis

Participatory methods

Education

PhD in computing or environmental science or an allied discipline

Job description

Overview

Working as part of an interdisciplinary EU team, you will support the Principal Investigator and Work Package leaders in the design and delivery of research activity on designing the Methodological Infrastructure of the Future Science Service for Biodiversity (SSBD) (Methods 4 NATURE).

The part‑time post is for 13 months, working at 0.5FTE.

Project Context

M4Nature harnesses the expertise of the EKLIPSE Methods Expert Group (MEG) to co‑design, test and validate a framework and best‑practice guidance into an interactive user application (MAGICKS2) for determining best Knowledge Synthesis Methods (KSMs) to address environmental requests at the science‑policy society interface (SPSI). We use an applied Delphi method to co‑design, test and validate the framework and guidance in an inclusive and deliberative manner. The Delphi panel (n=12) draws from a Knowledge Exchange Network (KEN) on methods involving scientists, practitioners and policy makers with methods expertise (n=30). Ten selected KSMs are initially proposed and will be modified and validated through a combination of the results from a rapid evidence review, reviews of EKLIPSE requests undertaken since 2017, and the Delphi panel deliberations. The panel will co‑design draft guidance on each chosen method individually and then validate guidance on selecting combinations of methods and associated process pathways across a typology of requests (urgent‑standard‑thematic), with the help of AI‑supported decision frameworks. The approved single‑ and bundled‑method guidance will then be translated into a user application MAGICKS2 to be tested both internally (via the project team) and externally (via our KEN and wider publics) using a range of past and current Bioagora/EKLIPSE requests, together with one urgent request from the Knowledge Centre for Biodiversity. The outcome of the project will be a novel interactive tool that combines the robust EKLIPSE process, novel AI and improved methods guidance for a more effective and time‑saving science policy process.

This Research Project is being delivered within the School of Architecture and Built Environment. The team involves members from Stirling University (Scotland), Boku University (Austria), Kassel University (Germany), Bonn University (Germany) and Averio University (Portugal). Work is focused across most work packages but there is particular emphasis on the AI and R Shiny App development.

Location & Working Arrangements

Based in Newcastle upon Tyne and London, we are an on‑campus organisation and offer flexible hours and location where the role allows. We pride ourselves on diversity and inclusivity, holding numerous awards for gender and race equality, disability confidence, and research excellence. We also hold the HR Excellence in Research award for implementing the concordat supporting the career development of researchers and are members of the Euraxess initiative to deliver information and support to professional researchers. The University has implemented a range of flexible working arrangements, and we are happy to explore candidate requirements as part of the recruitment process.

Applicants & Qualifications

Applicants should hold a PhD in computing or environmental science or an allied discipline with specific skills in computing and AI, and experience of R Shiny app design and development. Ideally they should have had some experience as a research assistant and familiarity with knowledge synthesis (systematic, scoping and rapid evidence reviews) and participatory methods.

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Are you an experienced PDRA with specialist skills in computing and AI with experience of R Shiny App design and development with familiarity with knowledge synthesis (systematic, rapid evidence and scoping reviews) and participatory methods with an interest in working at the science policy interface? An exciting position has arisen over 13 months (0.5FTE) to support an EU project led by Bioagora on designing the Methodological Infrastructure of the Future Science Service for Biodiversity (SSBD).

About Northumbria University

Northumbria University is a research‑intensive institution unlocking potential and changing lives locally and globally. Named Times Higher Education’s University of the Year in 2022 and Modern University of the Year in 2025, we rank in the top 25 in the UK for research power. With over 37,000 students from 140+ countries, we offer world‑leading research, award‑winning partnerships, and an outstanding student experience. We empower our exceptional staff, promoting a positive work‑life balance and offering great benefits, including excellent pension schemes, flexible working, generous holiday entitlement and more.

Values & Culture

Our Northumbria Values, co‑created by our team, define who we are: Academic Excellence, Innovation, Inclusivity, Collaboration, and Ambition. Our Behaviours shape our work culture: We listen and learn, support one another, respect everyone, trust each other, and are bold.