Research Assistant

Location: Department of Biology, South Parks Road, Oxford, OX1 3RB 

About the role 

We are seeking a Research Assistant to join the HumBug research project team at the Department of Biology. This UKRI-funded position is part-time (20 hours per week) and fixed-term until 31st August 2026. 

Invasive insect species, such as the tiger mosquito (Aedes albopictus) and Asian hornet (Vespa velutina), have the potential to outcompete or predate native species and spread diseases. As mobile devices increasingly support biodiversity monitoring, the acoustic detection and identification of insects allow us to expand the coverage of biodiversity monitoring in the UK.

About you 

The selected candidate will collect acoustic data in the field for the tiger mosquito and Asian hornet. They will collaborate closely with software engineers developing a mobile acoustic sensor and biologists providing ecological expertise and field collection guidance. The selected candidate will also help to analyse the data obtained in the field. Our objective is to create a versatile acoustic sensing system that can be customised for specific invasive species, including the Asian tiger mosquito and Asian hornet.

This role will require travel within the UK. 

You should hold a degree in Biology before starting and sufficient specialist knowledge in the discipline to work within established research programmes. Experience in field data collection and in handling bees in a laboratory setting is essential.

How to apply

Informal enquiries may be addressed to Professor Kathy Willis (kathy.willis@biology.ox.ac.uk).

The University of Oxford is committed to equality and valuing diversity. All applicants will be judged on merit, according to the selection criteria.

This post is fixed term part time (0.53 FTE - 20 hrs./week) and will be available for a start ASAP. The closing date for applications is 12.00 noon on Friday 18th October 2024, interviews are likely to be scheduled for late October 2024. Applications for this vacancy are to be made online via our e-recruitment system, and you will be required to upload a supporting statement and CV as part of your online application.

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