Research Technician/Senior Research Technician - Soil Sensors & Agri-tech

About the role

We are seeking a Research Technician/Senior Research Technician with experience in soil assessment and agri-tech to undertake soil sensor deployment, and soil sampling & analysis duties in the UKRI-funded LUNZ-funded project ‘OpenLAND: Open Evaluation of Climate-resilient Interventions for Land Management, Soil Health and Net Zero’. This is a research partnership with University of East Anglia (UEA, the lead research organisation) and other partners.

This role, working across soil assessment and agri-tech remits, focusses on advancing soil health assessment using sensor technology and autonomous platforms in collaboration with the agricultural sector. You will work closely with the research team at Plymouth and UEA to develop novel sensor-based approaches to soil data generation.

You will be based in the School of Geography, Earth and Environmental Sciences within the Faculty of Science and Engineering and affiliated to the Sustainable Earth Institute. The School hosts an interdisciplinary team of world-class academics undertaking teaching and research focused on challenges including climate change, natural hazards, social justice, pollution, energy transitions and the sensitive development of natural resources. Staff and students work and study in the stunning landscape of southwest England, which includes national parks, Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty, characterful towns and cities, and a 650 mile-long coastline.

What we’re looking for

You will have a HND (or equivalent in a relevant subject area) or M-Level qualification in a relevant subject (e.g. soil science, environmental sensor technology, or related research area). A track record of working with soil sensor technology, agri-robotic system deployment and farmer engagement through applied research and/or agri-business support will be an advantage.

Please note that this position may be subject to ATAS clearance if you require visa sponsorship.

For an informal discussion to find out more about the role then please contact Prof. Will Blake (william.blake@plymouth.ac.uk)

A current full driving licence (manual transmission) is essential as you will be driving University of Plymouth vehicles.This role is also subject to health surveillance with our Occupational Health team.

This is a full-time position working 37 hours per week on a fixed-term basis for a period of 24 months due to funding.

Due to the nature of the role, unfortunately we are unable to accommodate working from home.

For more information about the job and the person specification, please refer to the job description.

About us

The School of Geography Earth and Environmental Sciences holds a Bronze Athena SWAN award in recognition of our commitment to advance gender equality in higher education.

For more information on School of Geography Earth and Environmental Sciences please visit our dedicated webpage at https://www.plymouth.ac.uk/schools

Application Process

Please apply online, demonstrating how you meet the essential criteria outlined in the knowledge, qualifications, training, and experience elements of the job description in your supporting statement.

Appointment will be at Grade 5 or 6 level, subject to experience.  You should tailor your application towards the Job Description for which you meet the criteria, although the University reserves the right to make an offer at the appropriate level in relation to skills and experience. 

Anticipated Interview Date(s): w/c 24^th March 2025

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