Post-Doctoral Research Assistant (RESCUE project) (Fixed Term)

Bournemouth University; England; On-site; GBP 37,000 - 48,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health & Wellbeing

Pension

Annual leave 30 days

Hybrid working

Employee assistance

Staff discounts

Cycle to work

Job summary

Bournemouth University is seeking a Postdoctoral Research Assistant to study the ecology, distribution and movements of diadromous fishes in the River Severn, including shad, sea lamprey and eel. You will lead fieldwork and laboratory research, mentor researchers, and collaborate with partners while developing your own research.

The role requires a PhD (or near completion) in fish ecology or related field, plus experience in fish sampling and acoustic telemetry.

Qualifications

• PhD (or near completion) in fish ecology, fisheries science or related discipline.
• Experience in fish sampling across species is preferred.
• Practical experience of acoustic telemetry is required.
• Familiarity with eDNA methods is advantageous.
• Driving licence is desirable.
• Strong organisational and communication skills and a publication record for career stage.

Responsibilities

• Lead fieldwork and laboratory research using acoustic telemetry and eDNA techniques.
• Supervise and mentor field and lab work for PhD researchers.
• Collaborate with internal colleagues and external project partners.
• Develop and pursue your own research interests within the project.

Skills

Fieldwork management

Lab supervision

Communication skills

Independent researcher

Team collaboration

Education

PhD in fish ecology or related field

Tools

Acoustic telemetry

eDNA methods

Job description

About the role

Bournemouth University is working to conserve some of Europe’s most vulnerable migratory fishes. As a Postdoctoral Research Assistant, you will play a key role in investigating the ecology, distribution and movements of diadromous fishes across all their life stages in the River Severn, including European shads, sea lamprey and European eel.

You will lead fieldwork and laboratory research, applying techniques including acoustic telemetry and stable isotope analysis, alongside contributing to environmental DNA (eDNA) surveys. Working closely with a team of PhD researchers, you will provide field and laboratory supervision and mentoring, as well as developing your own research interests within the project. You will also collaborate with internal colleagues and external project partners.

We are seeking an enthusiastic and motivated researcher with a PhD (or with one close to completion) in fish ecology, fisheries science or related discipline. You will have experience of fish sampling, ideally involving multiple species, and practical experience of acoustic telemetry. Familiarity with eDNA methods is advantageous, as is holding a driving licence. You will have strong organisational and communication skills, the ability to work independently and collaboratively, and a publication record appropriate to career stage.

For further and informal discussions, please contact the project’s Principal Investigator, Professor Robert Britton ([e-mail].).

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

About the department

The Faculty of Health, Environment and Medical Sciencesis a vibrant and innovative environmentcontaining3academicSchools:theSchool 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