Postdoctoral Research Assistant/Scientist (PDRA) x 2 positions
17 hours ago
Plymouth
Location The Marine Biological Association, Plymouth, PL1 2PB, UK Hours 37 hours per week (Full time) About The Role We are seeking to appoint two Postdoctoral Research Assistant/Scientists to join the new Microplastics and Marine Pollution group at the Marine Biological Association in Plymouth. These roles are funded by the UKRI project Microplastics and multistressor effects on marine ecosystems in the context of global change (MICROMIX), led by Dr Alice Horton. The two PDRAs will have relevant and complementary expertise and skills to support the project’s goals. The post-holders will undertake experimental design and execution, sample processing and analysis, data analysis and preparation of peer-reviewed scientific manuscripts for publication. The positions will also involve engagement with the wider scientific community, including presentation of research findings at workshops and conferences. Candidates must hold a PhD in ecotoxicology, invertebrate biology, microbiology, environmental science, chemistry or related field. Further, each candidate must be able to demonstrate proficiency across at least two of the following specific areas: • Working with live macroinvertebrate/zooplankton organisms, including handling, maintenance and culturing, • Experimental ecotoxicology testing (for example with microplastics, organic chemicals and/or metals), • Spectroscopy and analysis of spectroscopic data (e.g. µFTIR, Raman), • Molecular analysis (PCR extraction, DNA/RNA sequencing, metabarcoding, data analysis and interpretation), • Modelling approaches specific to risk assessment, ecology and/or ecotoxicology, for example environmental risk assessment (ERA), ecotoxicological modelling (SSD, DEBtox), or trait-based modelling., • Intermediate to advanced statistics using R (or equivalent) Additional essential criteria: • Experience working in a laboratory environment, • Experience and enthusiasm for writing research publications (including as lead author), • Highly motivated to do scientific research to a high standard, • Demonstrated ability to work independently and as part of a team, • Strong communication skills and ability to work effectively in a highly collaborative research environment, • Excellent English language skills (both oral and written) Desirable (although not essential) experience also includes: • Working with microplastics (experimentally/analytically), • Experience with lab method development and/or adaptation, • Experience with application or development of novel microscopy/spectroscopy/analytical chemistry techniques for analysis of materials, • First author publication(s), • Presenting at national or international conferences, • Public engagement and outreach To apply Please email quoting reference 1225PDRASAH. You will need to provide three things to apply: • Covering letter that outlines your previous and most relevant experience and explains how and why this makes you right for the role., • CV of education and employment history along with details of two referees (one must be your current employer). References for shortlisted candidates may be sought in advance of interview but only with the permission of the candidate., • Confirmation of your right to live and work in the UK. *Non UK applicants can apply. Where a share code is provided, please also include your date of birth to enable the online right to work check., • Sponsorship is available for non UK applicants for these positions. For further information, please contact Dr Alice Horton Interviews will take place the week commencing 2 March 2026. Closing date 1st February 2026