Research Associate in Marine Ecosystem Modelling

University of East Anglia; Norwich; On-site; GBP 31,000 - 38,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading university in the United Kingdom is seeking a Research Associate to support the PlankTOM ocean ecosystem model project. The successful candidate will run model simulations, manage datasets, and contribute to understanding marine biodiversity under climate change. A graduate qualification in a relevant field and data analysis experience are essential. This role is full-time, starting salary from £31,236, with various flexible working options available.

Benefits

44 days annual leave

Flexible working hours

Qualifications

• Graduate-level qualification or equivalent experience in marine science, environmental science, ecology, computational biology, or oceanography.
• Experience with data analysis is essential.
• Experience in computer modelling or environmental data analysis is advantageous.

Responsibilities

• Contribute to the development and evaluation of the PlankTOM global ocean ecosystem model.
• Assist in running and analysing model simulations.
• Compile and manage observational datasets.
• Produce figures to interpret and validate results.

Skills

Data analysis using Python or R

Strong organisational skills

Ability to handle large datasets

Collaborative teamwork

Education

Graduate-level qualification in marine science or related field

Job description

Position Overview

As a Research Associate, you will contribute to the development and evaluation of the PlankTOM global ocean ecosystem model, helping to improve understanding of how marine ecosystem processes, including viral interactions, influence biodiversity, productivity, and carbon export under climate change. You will assist in running and analysing model simulations, compiling and managing observational datasets, and producing figures to help interpret and validate results.

Qualifications

You will have a graduate-level qualification (or equivalent experience) in a relevant discipline such as marine science, environmental science, ecology, computational biology, or oceanography. You will have experience with data analysis (e.g. using Python or R), strong organisational skills, and the ability to handle and interpret large datasets. You should be confident working collaboratively as part of a multidisciplinary and international team, with experience in computer modelling or environmental data analysis considered an advantage.

University Commitment

The University holds an Athena Swan Silver Institutional Award in recognition of our advancement towards gender equality.

Employment Details

Starting salary from £31,236 per annum, dependent on skills and experience, with an annual increment up to £37,694 per annum., This full-time post is available from 19 January 2026 on a fixed term basis for up to 12 months.

Flexible Working Options

UEA offers a variety of flexible working options and although this role is advertised on a full-time basis, we encourage applications from individuals who would prefer a flexible working pattern including annualised hours, compressed working hours, part time, job share, term-time only and/or hybrid working. Details of preferred hours should be stated in the personal statement and will be discussed further at interview.

Benefits

Further information on our great benefits package, including 44 days annual leave inclusive of Bank Holidays and additional University Customary days (pro rata for part-time), can be found on our benefits page.