Postdoctoral Research Assistant/Scientist (PDRA) x 2 positions

Spotted & Shared by Gradsouthwest; Plymouth; On-site; GBP 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

A research institution focused on marine science is seeking two Postdoctoral Research Assistants/Scientists to join their Microplastics and Marine Pollution group. The role involves investigating the effects of microplastics on marine ecosystems, including experimental design, data analysis, and publishing findings. Candidates should have experience in experimental design and data analysis. Providing flexible and hybrid working arrangements, the institution is committed to inclusivity and welcomes diverse applications.

Benefits

30 days annual leave plus Bank Holidays

Sick pay

10% pension contribution

Flexible working arrangements

Cycle to work scheme

Low-cost on-site parking

Qualifications

• Experience in experimental design and execution.
• Proven ability in sample processing and analysis.
• Strong skills in data analysis and manuscript preparation.

Responsibilities

• Investigate microplastic effects on marine organisms.
• Assess impacts on microbial communities.
• Analyse historical samples for microplastic contamination.
• Design and execute experiments, process samples, and prepare manuscripts.
• Present findings at workshops and conferences.

Skills

Experimental design

Sample processing

Data analysis

Preparation of peer-reviewed manuscripts

Engagement with scientific community

Education

Relevant expertise related to marine ecosystems

Job description

Overview

We are seeking to appoint two Postdoctoral Research Assistant/Scientists to join the Microplastics and Marine Pollution group at the Marine Biological Association in Plymouth. These roles are funded by the UKRI project Microplastics and multistressor effects on marine ecosystems in the context of global change (MICROMIX), led by Dr Alice Horton. The post-holders will undertake experimental design and execution, sample processing and analysis, data analysis and preparation of peer-reviewed scientific manuscripts for publication. The positions will also involve engagement with the wider scientific community, including presentation of research findings at workshops and conferences.

Microplastics are a global concern, present in air, land, rivers and the sea. The project will address microplastics as a chronic multistressor to marine organisms, including the wider stressors and interactive effects that occur when combined, in the context of environmental change.

Responsibilities

• Experimentally investigate the effects of microplastics alongside key stressors including chemicals of emerging concern (such as PFAS, tyre additives and UV stabilisers) and ocean warming on various invertebrate species
• Assess the effects of microplastics on microbial and microbiome communities
• Analyse archived time-series samples to investigate whether microplastic contamination and therefore organism exposure has increased through the decades
• Use predictive tools to determine likely future risk in a rapidly changing environment
• Design and execute experiments, process samples, analyse data, and prepare peer‑reviewed manuscripts for publication
• Engage with the broader scientific community and present findings at workshops and conferences

Project context and facilities

The MBA has excellent aquatic experimental facilities including the Seawater Hall Aquarium and multiple CT rooms. The Marine Microbiome Centre of Excellence at the MBA includes the Mary Parke Bioimaging Centre. Working at the MBA provides access to the CPR Survey and associated expertise, enabling analysis of samples dating from the 1950s. Experienced technician support is available across all facilities.

Salary and benefits

• Salary based on experience within the range above
• 30 days annual leave plus Bank Holidays
• 3 Privilege Days during festive closure week
• Sick pay
• Pension scheme – the MBA contributes 10% of basic salary into a defined contribution scheme with staff contributing a 3% minimum; MBA matches additional employee contributions up to 5%
• Flexible and hybrid working arrangements
• Cycle to work scheme
• Low-cost on-site parking

Qualifications and person specification

Applicants should have relevant and complementary expertise and skills to support the project goals. Experience in experimental design, sample processing and analysis, data analysis, and preparation of peer‑reviewed manuscripts is desirable. We welcome diverse backgrounds and perspectives.

How to apply

Please email [e-mail], quoting reference 1225PDRASAH. You will need to provide three items to apply:

1. Covering letter outlining your relevant experience and why you are right for the role
2. CV including education and employment history and details of two referees (one must be your current employer). References for shortlisted candidates may be sought in advance of interview but only with the candidate's permission
3. Confirmation of your right to live and work in the UK. Non-UK applicants can apply. If a share code is provided, include your date of birth to enable the online right to work check

* Sponsorship is available for non-UK applicants for these positions.

For further information, please contact Dr Alice Horton at [e-mail]

Interviews will take place the week commencing 2 March 2026. You will only be contacted if you are shortlisted for interview.

Equal Opportunities: We welcome applications from all suitably qualified candidates and seek talented people with diverse backgrounds and perspectives to enhance all that we do.