Postdoctoral Researcher in Freshwater Ecosystem Ecology

The role

We are seeking a Postdoctoral Researcher in Freshwater Ecosystem Ecology to join a multidisciplinary consortium of researchers working on the UKRI-funded REFRESH project, that will be Researching the role of dissolved organic matter as a nutrient resource in freshwater ecosystems. This offers an exciting prospect for you to develop understanding of how biota access and respond to dissolved organic matter in freshwaters, and its role in driving ecosystem health in freshwaters. Your research will break new ground in understanding the importance of dissolved organic matter as a nutrient source capable of structuring freshwater communities. You will undertake field observations and ecological experiments, and work with a range of organisms, including algae, invertebrates and fishes.

You will have prior research experience in freshwater ecology and/or biogeochemistry and you will be supported to enhance your skills in experimental ecology and in water chemistry analysis. If you are a passionate ecologically-focussed researcher eager to push the boundaries of environmental science and find solutions to what drives ecosystem change in freshwaters, then this role is for you.

What will you be doing?

You will be supported by our Specialist Technician in Biogeochemistry, and collaborate with the Principal Investigator and Co-Investigator teams at the University of Bristol, Bangor University and UKCEH to:

• design, set up and conduct a series of field-based ecological experiments a series of sites across the UK to evaluate how dissolved organic matter of varying character is accessed and utilised in freshwater ecosystems
• learn, fine tune and apply a suite of our novel biogeochemical ‘tracer’ techniques that will enable us to track the use of riverine dissolved organic matter through aquatic food webs
• Further details can be found in the job description and in the UoB job advertisement.

You should apply if

• A degree in a relevant field (e.g., ecology, environmental science, environmental biology, environmental chemistry, or related subjects).
• A PhD in ecology, environmental biology or environmental chemistry.
• An interest in field-based freshwater ecology, and an understanding of core principles of water chemistry analysis and mesocosm-based research.
• A willingness to develop skills in the use of isotope analyses for tracking nutrient transfer in the natural environment.
• Demonstrable skills in experimental design and data analysis.
• Strong publication record, with experience in writing articles for high-impact academic journals.
• Excellent written communication skills with a passion for publishing research outcomes. 
• Strong interpersonal and teamwork skills, with the ability to collaborate across the team, disciplines, institutions, and with key stakeholders involved in the REFRESH programme.
• Flexibility in working hours to adapt to the requirements of the role.
• A valid driving licence.

Additional information

For informal enquiries please contact:

Professor Penny Johnes, penny.johnes@bristol.ac.uk

Note: This Postdoctoral Researcher role is also referred to as Senior Research Associate role at the University of Bristol

Contract type: Open-ended with fixed funding until 30/09/2029

Interviews are anticipated to take place on 18/03/2025

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