Post-doctoral Research Assistant

University of the West of Scotland – School of Health & Life Sciences

Lanarkshire Campus

Full time: 35 hours per week

Fixed Term: 36 months

Applications are invited for a Postdoctoral Research Fellow at the University of the West of Scotland working in the research group led by Professor Kath Sloman. This position will support the aims of the interdisciplinary UKRI-funded project ‘Early intervention systems for sustainable aquaculture health in Viet Nam and Thailand’.

The project is funded by UKRI (UK Research and Innovation) as part of a collaborative interdisciplinary project with the University of Strathclyde, The James Hutton Institute, Can Tho University (Viet Nam) and The Vidyasirimedhi Institute of Science and Technology (Thailand).

The project will develop technologies for rapid identification of changes in pathogen load, water quality, animal behaviour and feeding that can be used as early warnings of adverse health outcomes in aquaculture (with particular reference to shrimp). How these parameters are influenced by wider climatic fluctuations will also be considered. The PDRA will be responsible for collection of behavioural and physiological data both during field work in Viet Nam and also using shrimp aquaculture systems at UWS. The successful candidate will work alongside other PDRAs within the UK, Viet Nam and Thailand in data analysis, generation of scientific reports and papers, and integrating research findings across disciplines.

The successful candidate should have the following:

• Ph.D. (awarded or close to completion) in relevant environmental science/zoology with strong relevant behaviour/physiology component.
• Experience of working in research or industry relevant to environmental science/aquaculture.
• Good project management and communication skills.
• Excellent practical laboratory/field experience and skills of behavioural/physiological analysis, particularly in relation to aquatic animals.
• Good awareness of Health & Safety requirements for both field and laboratory work within and external to the UK.
• Knowledge of aquatic animal husbandry/aquaculture.
• Must be flexible and be willing to work outside of normal working hours, as required.
• Must be willing to travel and visit other external partners, including internationally (Viet Nam, Thailand).

For further information about this position, please contact Professor Kath Sloman (katherine.sloman@uws.ac.uk)

About us

University of the West of Scotland is one of Scotland’s largest and most dynamic modern universities. Our reach across the country, together with our London campus, means that UWS is a significant force in global knowledge creation, innovation, and a leading provider of undergraduate, postgraduate and research degree education. Our degrees provide students with a transformational experience; equipping them with highly sought-after graduate skills that set them up for global success in world-leading sectors, industries and businesses.

With cutting-edge courses, modern pedagogy and practical knowledge, we enable our students and staff to experience the joy of learning, teaching, research and innovation, and apply their knowledge for the benefit of others. 

UWS is officially ranked by Times Higher Education in the top 200 universities worldwide under 50 years old (2023 Young University Rankings).

The School of Health & Life Sciences at UWS offers innovative teaching and research opportunities, firmly focused on the real-world challenges facing the healthcare and life sciences sectors. You will join a supportive and committed team, where you will play a key role in continuing to establish the University as a force for good. Our students benefit from studying in modern learning facilities – among the very best in the country – and the strong links we have with partner organisations across the private, public and third sectors.

We offer our staff a caring and supportive environment, across five campuses, and a competitive benefits package which includes:

• 35 days of annual leave, plus a further 12 days for public/university holidays
• An additional days leave on your birthday
• Defined benefit contribution pension scheme (currently 23%), including death in service benefits upon joining the scheme  
• A flexible approach to working pattern and work-life balance
• Employee discount scheme across 3,500 retailers
• Fitness facilities across our campuses
• Access to a range of health and wellbeing resources, including occupational health, physiotherapy and access to our Employee Assistance Programme
• Professional, career and research development opportunities.

Closing date: Wednesday 26^th February 2025

Interview date: Week commencing 10^th March 2025

The University reserves the right to shorten/extend the closing date of any position where a high/low volume of suitable applications are received. Therefore, if you are interested in this role, an early application would be encouraged.

You can find out more about how the University uses your personal data as part of the recruitment process by looking at the UWS HR Applicant Privacy Notice at www.uws.ac.uk

UWS is committed to equality and diversity and welcomes applications from underrepresented groups.

UWS is a “Disability Confident” employer.

University of the West of Scotland is a registered Scottish charity, no. SC002520.