Research Scientist - Marine Ecologist / Marine Habitat Mapper

National Oceanography Centre, Southampton

Permanent

Full time (37 hours per week)

£42,062

Who are we?

We are the National Oceanography Centre (NOC) - the UK’s leading institution for integrated coastal and deep ocean research. Through our ground-breaking research, collaboration, and game-changing innovation we work to gain a deeper understanding of our ocean, helping every living thing on our planet flourish.

We are made up of a dynamic and vibrant community focused on solving challenging long-term marine science problems, underpinning international and UK public policy, business and societal outcomes.

The ocean has the potential to provide the solutions to so many of the social, economic and environmental challenges we face worldwide. To truly harness the value of the ocean, we put ocean research, science and discovery at the heart of our culture.

Join us in shaping the future of oceanographic research and contribute your unique perspective to our organisation.

About the role

We are looking for a marine ecologist or marine habitat mapping/modelling scientist to join our dynamic Seafloor Ecosystems sub-group at the National Oceanography Centre. We carry out fundamental and applied research into the structure, spatial distribution, status and function of marine habitats, from shallow waters to the deep sea.

You will contribute your expertise to a number of national and international programmes that seek to either map marine habitats or use marine spatial data in novel and informative ways that inform science as well as marine management. We currently have a broad portfolio of active projects within the group (covering marine habitat mapping and modelling, marine spatial planning, blue carbon assessments and understanding climate change) and we therefore expect the successful candidate to have a broad interest in marine science, be flexible and be ready to contribute to multiple topics.

This role requires a broad set of skills that will include data collection at sea, analysis, interpretation, publication writing and the ability to communicate findings to both scientific and stakeholder audiences. You will contribute to, and will receive training in, spatial data collection and analysis. You will also be expected to contribute to the development of new research funding proposals for a wide range of funding stakeholders.

Through participation in various projects, you will have the opportunity to create a strong research profile and expand your international network. This is a unique opportunity for scientific career development, for which we will provide a formal support structure.

About you

You will have a PhD or equivalent experience in marine science, and an enthusiasm for marine ecology, spatial analysis and marine habitat mapping or spatial modelling. We are looking for candidates with data analysis skills, particularly applied to geostatistical modelling and spatial analysis. You will be familiar with the applications of Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and statistical analysis (), within a marine or habitat mapping context if possible.

You will demonstrate a track record in scientific publication appropriate for your career stage, and potential for the development of a coherent research portfolio that can attract funding. We are especially looking for candidates who can work across disciplines and are experienced generalists within marine ecology.

Why NOC?

We offer a generous set of benefits, including:

- 30 days contractual annual leave, plus 3.5 extra closure days and bank holidays

- a 10% employer contribution pension scheme

- access to our Employee Assistance Programme, offering free and anonymous support on mental, physical, emotional, health and financial issues

- access to a flexible benefits portal offering online discounts, cashback and eGift cards

- a Cycle2Work scheme allowing employees to acquire bikes and accessories

- a great working environment with a number of social events, including summer and Christmas celebrations

- we are proud to be aLiving Wage Employer

Location

This position will be based in Southampton. The centre is well connected by public transport and has ample cycle parking in addition to free onsite car-parking with over 40 EV charging points.

The NOC has a hybrid working approach where for most positions staff can work from home up to 2 days per week. If you are interested in this position, but require a more flexible working arrangement, please contact the recruitment team using the contact details below.    

We can support visa applications where required. We may be able to offer financial support for applicants who will need to relocate for this position.  

Submitting an application 

Please click ‘Apply for this job’ and submit an up-to-date CV and cover letter. If you are unable to apply online, please contact the NOC recruitment team atcareers@/ .

Before submitting your application please ensure you have reviewed the attached job description and person specification. 

We are committed to fostering diversity and inclusion in our workplace. We actively encourage qualified candidates from all backgrounds to apply for this position, as we strive to create a supportive and equitable environment where all voices are valued and heard.

Those seeking employment at NOC are considered solely on their qualifications, skills and experience, without regard to gender, gender identity, age, race, religion, disability, sex, sexual orientation, relationship status, family status (including pregnancy / maternity leave) or any other protected characteristic.

There is a guaranteed interview scheme for suitable candidates with a disability. The NOC is an Investors in People organisation.

Date advert posted: 12 August 2024.

Closing date: 9 September 2024. This vacancy may close earlier depending on the number of applicants. 

Please note we are not accepting applications via recruitment agencies for this position.