The Centre for Ecology & Hydrology (CEH) is part of the Natural Environment Research Council (NERC) and is the UK's Centre of Excellence for integrated research in terrestrial and freshwater ecosystems and their interaction with the atmosphere. Working in partnership with the research community, policy makers, industry and society, CEH undertakes cutting edge research to deliver world class solutions to the most complex environmental challenges facing humankind. CEH has an annual turnover of £35 million, and employs staff across four sites; the headquarters is at Wallingford with further sites at Bangor, Edinburgh and Lancaster.
About the role
The NERC Research Associates' Programme is an initiative which is intended to offer individuals the opportunity to gain practical experience of working within a Research Institute, whilst acquiring specialist and wider skills that will be valuable in a range of careers.
The programme is aimed particularly at those who have recently completed postgraduate studies, but is open to individuals from other backgrounds and of all ages. Individuals will work on highly topical research projects, both important for future research within the environmental research community and appropriate to their backgrounds. Research Associates are given specific, measurable objectives which will be intended to develop their skills as a researcher and to demonstrate their suitability for a research career.
The role is for an analyst to conduct chemical analysis in environmental samples in a wide range of matrices from water to soils, biota, etc. Duties include sample preparation and analysis of nutrients and organic compounds as well as method development. Initially the job will involve all aspects of the chemical analysis of environmental samples for the analysis of organic compounds using Gas Chromatography- Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS), such as old and new persistent organic pollutants OPs, phospholipid fatty acids pesticides, etc. You will also prepare and carry out analyses of nutrients, determination of physical properties (such as pH, conductivity), moisture content and loss on ignition and the operation of automated techniques: e.g. alkalinity, ion chromatography, automated colorimetry, carbon and nitrogen analyser and an elemental analyser. Furthermore, you will also be involved in the preparation and analyses of organic compounds by Liquid Chromatography- Mass Spectrometry.
About you
You will have a degree (2:1) in Environmental Chemistry and/or relevant experience. It is essential that you have some relevant skills/experience in analytical experience and competence in organic chemical analysis. As well as experience and competence in the use of GC-MS. Experience of working in a laboratory accredited to ISO 17025:2005 will be beneficial, however full training will be given in the quality system and laboratory safety. You must be able to work independently and manage own time effectively. You will be scientifically numerate with good mathematical skills and IT skills. You will be scientifically numerate and with good mathematical skills. You will have proven experience of producing high quality data. You will be expected to make active contributions and provide support to other team members.
What we can offer you
NERC offer a public sector pension scheme, 30 days’ annual leave and 10½ days’ public and privilege holiday per annum. We offer a flexible and supportive working environment and will encourage your continuing professional development as part of our career support.
Eligibility to apply
To work for CEH, you must be eligible to live and work in the UK without the requirement for a work permit. CEH can only apply for a work permit in cases where there are no suitably qualified or experienced resident workers; otherwise applicants should normally be resident in the UK or a national of the European Union.
Applications are handled by UK SBS; to apply please visit our job board at http://www.topcareer.jobs/Vacancy/irc240992_7125.aspx please ensure that you complete an application form as CVs will not be accepted as a standalone. The form should be uploaded via the "My Account" menu option on the "Jobs Home" page. Applicants who are unable to apply online should contact us by telephone on 01793 867000, please quote reference number IRC240992.
Closing Date: 9th June 2017
Interview Date: 4th July 2017
