IMPORTANT: This Advertiser has requested that applicants MUST be National Residents / Valid Work Permit-holders. Other applicants need not apply.
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. You will work on highly topical research projects, both important for future research within the environmental research community and appropriate to your backgrounds. As a Research Associate you are given specific, measurable objectives which will be intended to develop your skills as a researcher and to demonstrate your suitability for a research career.
You will research into the biogeochemistry of peatlands and other carbon-rich ecosystems, with a focus on greenhouse gas emissions, aquatic carbon cycling and land-management.
Specific task and skills to be gained:
We are seeking a Band 6 RA to work within the Peatland and Coastal Biogeochemistry group at Bangor. The successful applicant will be expected to participate, and to gain new expertise, in the following key areas:
1. Designing, implementing and operating field measurement and experimental programmes in terrestrial and freshwater/estuarine systems based on a range of techniques including eddy covariance and chamber-based gas flux measurements, the use of fixed and mobile water quality sensors and analysers, and a range of chemical, optical and isotopic characterisation techniques.
2. Integrating field measurements with spatial datasets (including the use of earth observation data) and GIS-based models to map assess condition and predict greenhouse gas emissions and aquatic carbon losses from peatlands and other managed ecosystems.
3. Managing and analysing large, complex datasets.
4. Developing, communicating and publishing novel research, building internal and external collaborations, working with policy makers, and supporting the development of future funded work both in the UK and overseas.
You will gain skills in the design and implementation of field-based research programmes; the application of a wide range of measurement techniques; the use of statistical, spatial analysis and modelling software; and the effective communication of scientific findings to a wide range of audiences including the research community, policymakers, conservation agencies, land-managers and commercial organisations.
About you:
A 2:1 degree and PhD (or equivalent skills or knowledge) in ecology/environmental science or another
closely related research field is essential. With existing knowledge of terrestrial and/or freshwater
biogeochemical processes in peatlands or similar ecosystems. A strong foundation in the use of statistical,
spatial and/or modelling software as well as excellent numeracy, written, oral communication
and teamwork skills. You will have the ability to work in a range of environments including field sites, consisting of possible rough terrain, and carrying of heavy equipment.
At the end of the three year training programme, as a Research Associate you will have gained in depth training in a broad spectrum of research skills from experimental design, data collection and analysis to the publication and communication of research findings for a range of audiences. You will have had the opportunity to participate in, contribute to and support the development of a wide range of projects supporting the delivery of CEH science objectives.
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 the UK SBS; to apply please visit our job board at
http://topcareer.jobs/Vacancy/irc230718_6686.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 would like to receive this advert in an alternative format (e.g. large print, Braille, audio or hard copy), or who are unable to apply online should contact us by telephone on 01793 867000, please quote reference number IRC230718.
Closing Date: 11th September 2016
Interview Date: 18th October 2016
