Research Associate in Coastal Geomorphology

Ulster University; Derry/Londonderry; On-site; GBP 33,000 - 37,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading university in Northern Ireland seeks a Research Associate in Coastal Geomorphology. The candidate will lead research in monitoring coastal changes and employ various field techniques. A PhD in coastal geomorphology and relevant research experience are essential. This full-time, fixed-term position offers a salary range of £33,020 to £36,654. The successful applicant will also participate in public engagement and citizen science efforts, contributing to significant environmental projects.

Qualifications

• Understanding of physical processes of change on sandy coasts.
• Experience in coastal geomorphology research.
• Fieldwork and data analysis experience.

Responsibilities

• Measure and monitor coastal geomorphological change.
• Store and disseminate data for analysis.
• Participate in public engagement activities.

Skills

Knowledge of physical processes in coastal geomorphology

Fieldwork techniques

Data analysis and interpretation

Education

PhD or near completion in coastal geomorphology

Degree in physical geography, physical oceanography, geology or related

Job description

Job Title: Research Associate in Coastal Geomorphology

Department/School: School of Geography and Environmental Sciences

Campus: Coleraine

Salary: £33,020 - £36,654 per annum

Duration: Fixed-Term until 31st March 2029 / Full-time

Closing Date: 7th January 2026 at 23:30

Reference Number: 040306

About us

We are a university with a national and international reputation for excellence, innovation and regional engagement, making a major contribution to the economic, social and cultural development of Northern Ireland.

Our core business activities are teaching and learning, widening access to education, research and innovation and technology and knowledge transfer.

The role

The recently awarded £9M C-MAP project (Coastal Monitoring and Adaptation Planning) has an ambitious programme of work which aims to develop new and sustainable approaches to managing coastal and marine environments in Northern Ireland and the border counties of the Irish Republic. The primary focus of the work at Ulster University is in the monitoring and recording of coastal change on mobile (sandy) coasts.

Reporting to the PI, we are seeking an experienced researcher with a demonstrable understanding of physical processes of change on sandy coasts. As part of a dedicated team of field and lab workers, the post holder will be responsible for measuring and monitoring coastal geomorphological change using a variety of field techniques, storing and disseminating the data and analysing and interpreting patterns of change. They will also participate in public engagement activities, including citizen science training and dissemination of research findings.

We may create a 12-month waiting list for same or similar roles within the Department / Faculty. The University reserves the right to extend the waiting list across the University if required for certain posts.

About you

The postholder will be required to have:

• A degree or equivalent qualification in physical geography, physical oceanography, geology, or a related Earth science discipline.
• Hold a PhD (or near completion with thesis submitted) in coastal geomorphology of sandy coasts.
• Relevant postgraduate research experience in coastal geomorphology.

Please find our employee benefits here: Employee Services & Benefits (ulster.ac.uk)

Athena SWAN Statement

The School of Geography & Environmental Sciences holds a Bronze Athena SWAN Award in recognition of our commitment to advancing Gender equality. You can read more about what this means at www.ecu.ac.uk/equality-charters/athena-swan and on our University website https://www.ulster.ac.uk/peopleandculture/employee-benefits/equality-diversity/athena-swan. The University has a range of initiatives to support a family friendly working environment, including flexible working.

The University is an equal opportunities employer and welcomes applicants from all sections of the community, particularly from those with disabilities. Appointment will be made on merit.