Environmental Scientist

Based at Bangor, Wales

We are looking for an enthusiastic, competent and committed laboratory and field research scientist to work at CEH’s Bangor site with scientists involved in multi-disciplinary research on soils and water quality.  The primary roles of this post will be to:

• Work within a team of laboratory/field research scientists.
• Prepare mineral and organic soil samples for physical, chemical and biological analysis.
• Conduct basic laboratory soil chemical and physical analysis.
• Conduct data input to spreadsheets and basic quality assurance checks.
• Collect soil and water samples from rugged upland environments, often through lone working.
• Contribute to the production of reports and scientific papers.

The post will be with the Biogeochemistry and Ecosystem Function Section.  The focus of the role is to deliver laboratory analysis and field sampling in support of research projects.  This includes supporting the day-to-day operation of laboratory and experimental facilities.

Main Duties

• Drying and grinding soils.
• Soil sub-sampling and preparation of soil pastes.
• Basic chemical analysis including measurements of pH, electrical conductivity, water content, cations, anions, organic matter content, carbon, nitrogen.
• Basic physical analysis including photography and measurement of water content, bulk density, loss on ignition.
• Routine instrument checks.
• Assistance with field sampling for soils and waters, and field related experiments.
• Occasional installation of new sampling equipment and infrastructure.
• Data input to Excel spreadsheets; data management.

Appropriate on-going training will be provided to assist the appointed researcher to develop the skills to support career progression.  This may include training in: soil and water analysis methods, first aid, off-road driving, data management, data analysis and statistical methods.

Skills required

• Candidates will be expected to have a degree in Physical/Environmental Sciences and project-based experience of quantitative scientific work in a university or research environment, with a strong laboratory and field component.
• A working knowledge of soil sample preparation and analysis techniques and demonstrated competence in handling water and/or biological samples would be an advantage, as would experience with analytical and field instruments.
• Experience in ion chromatography or AMFIA instrumentation would be an advantage.
• A working knowledge of word processing and spreadsheet packages is essential, and a more advanced knowledge of handling large data sets and databases would be helpful.
• The ability and willingness to work extensively in laboratories and sample preparation facilities, as well as in the field is essential.  Field activities may require lone working, often in adverse weather conditions, and at field sites inaccessible by road; therefore a level of fitness to walk to upland field sites and to collect soil auger samples involving some heavy manual handling is required.
• A full driving licence is required; training for off-road driving will be provided.
• Excellent communication skills and the ability to work independently and as part of a team are essential.  The applicant needs to be flexible and have the ability to meet deadlines.

Applications are handled by the RCUK Shared Services Centre. To apply, please visit their job board at http://www.topcareer.jobs/ searching for IRC93752.

Salary: £19,740 - £23,390
Band:  7
Contract Type: 3-year fixed term appointment
Hours:  Full Time
Closing Date: 24/5/2013
Interview Date: 1/7/2013
Reference: IRC93752