Research Associate

Contract type: Fixed term from 1^st November 2024 to 31^st October 2025

An exciting opportunity has arisen for a Research Associate specialising in plant-soil functional ecology. You will work on an international project investigating how rising atmospheric CO₂ concentrations impact on tropical savanna ecosystem structure and function. The project involves collaboration with UK and South African scientists.

You will run experiments to understand why some savanna tree species are more responsive to CO₂ than others, and to evaluate whether these responses are mediated through carbon-for-nutrient exchange with soil mutualists, especially rhizobia and mycorrhizal fungi. You will join a dynamic and thriving research environment, working with Professors Katie Field and Colin Osborne, and Dr Kim Simpson in a busy lab within a diverse group of researchers focusing on mycorrhizal function.

Applicants must have a PhD in plant or soil functional ecology, or a related field. Experience of running plant growth experiments in controlled environments and experience of processing and analysing biological samples using wet lab techniques are also essential.

We’re one of the best not-for-profit organisations to work for in the UK. The University’s Total Reward Package includes a competitive salary, a generous Pension Scheme and annual leave entitlement, as well as access to a range of learning and development courses to support your personal and professional development.

We build teams of people from different heritages and lifestyles from across the world, whose talent and contributions complement each other to greatest effect. We believe diversity in all its forms delivers greater impact through research, teaching and student experience.

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