Research Assistant

University of Portsmouth
£27,511 - £30,046 per annum
Portsmouth
4 January 2021

For further information contact Gordon Watson or telephone 02392 845 798

The University of Portsmouth is a dynamic and ambitious institution with a track record of success. One of only four universities in the south east of England to achieve a Gold rating in the Teaching Excellence Framework and ranked in the top 150 in the Times Higher Young University World Rankings.

We are seeking to recruit a Research Associate to work on the RaNTrans (Rapid reduction of Nutrients in Transitional Waters) project investigating and testing interventions to reduce macroalgal cover and nutrient concentrations in coastal areas.  

Coastal eutrophication results in the growth of green algal mats on intertidal mudflats, which has ecological impacts, as well as economic and human health issues.  The RaNTrans project will be the first to develop and test innovative methods that will rapidly reduce algal mat coverage and reduce nutrients. These include i) mechanical removal of algal mats; ii) feeding algal mats to polychaete worms and converting these to aquaculture feed; establishing and optimising iii) seaweed culture and; iv) European oyster aquaculture. The post holder will undertake components of the experimental processes (based in the Solent) for work packages under guidance of Dr G Watson (PI) and the RanTrans team, but will also generate outputs and contribute to dissemination.  They will liaise with the project research team, eight project partners (French and UK) as well as local stakeholders. 

The successful candidate will have an appropriate BSc qualification and ideally, a postgraduate qualification.  They will have experience of marine ecology and research experience of benthic systems.  This post is funded by the Interreg Channel V programme for up to 12 months.  A driving licence valid for the UK and willingness to work flexible hours are desirable.

The post is based at the Institute of Marine Sciences which is an internationally renowned marine centre providing research, supporting over 200 staff, undergraduates and postgraduates, but with strong interdisciplinary links across the University.  Portsmouth is a dynamic and innovative place to work and study and the University is committed to delivering an excellent student experience in conjunction with world-class research.

It may be possible to apply for this role under the Secondment Policy . If you wish to apply as a secondee, you must have approval of your line manager in advance of submitting your application form. Please confirm in your application that your line manager has approved this.

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