UK Centre for Ecology & Hydrology (UKCEH)
Laboratory and Field Research Scientist
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Lab and Field Research Scientist
Salary and Working Terms
- Salary: £33,284 to £35,322 (permanent)
- Location: Hybrid (70% lab, 20% fieldwork, office tasks)
- Fieldwork: Regular UK-based duties (Thames catchment), occasional overnight stays
- Requirements:
- Full UK manual driving licence
- Willingness for travel beyond UK with experience
About UKCEH
UK Centre for Ecology & Hydrology (UKCEH) is a leading independent research institute with over 600 scientists studying environmental processes. We bridge ecosystems—los, water, and air—to address real-world challenges, inform policy, and contribute to global environmental resilience.
About This Role
Join Water Quality & Catchment Processes, a well-established research group where your work will directly influence NERC-funded projects. This is your first step into a collaborative environment where you’ll transition from academia to impact-driven research.
Your Mission
Provide hands-on expertise in water chemistry, fieldwork, and data analysis, supporting projects addressing nutrient pollution, contaminant management, and freshwater ecology. Your work will contribute to societal impact, from river health monitoring to citizen science initiatives.
What You’ll Do
- Fieldwork & Sampling – Collect high-quality samples from waterways (rivers, lakes) and deploy/manage water-quality sensors, probes, and auto-samplers.
- Lab Analysis – Conduct nutrient/chemical assays (e.g., algal growth, mesocosm experiments).
- Data Handling – Process, visualise, and interpret data for project reports, papers, and datasets.
- Collaboration – Work as part of a multidisciplinary team with senior scientists, led by a Senior Environmental Chemist.
- Logistics – Assist in field planning, risk assessment, equipment prep, and office operations.
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Responsibilities
- Plan and conduct practical fieldwork (e.g., catchment sampling) with precision.
- Operate and maintain field equipment, ensuring accuracy in sensor calibrations.
- Process, check, and collate data for scientific reports, visualisations, and presentations.
- Support experimental research (e.g., mesocosms, algal studies).
- Prepare figures, tables, and summaries for stakeholder-facing outputs.
- Collaborate with teams to troubleshoot challenges and deliver findings efficiently.
Who You Are: Required Qualifications
- Degree (or equivalent experience) in: Environmental science Chemistry Biology Geography Hydrology
- Practical laboratory experience or fieldwork (e.g., sampling, environmental monitoring).
- Attention to detail in methodical tasks.
- Strong organisation—self-managed with commitment to deadlines.
- Working knowledge of Microsoft Office tools (Excel, Word) with a willingness to learn data analysis (e.g., R, Python).
- Clear communication for teamwork and stakeholder engagement.
Desirable Skills
- Expertise in water quality, algal, or microbiological analysis.
- Hands-on experience with water samplers, sondes, or sensors.
- Laboratory procedures under QA/QC frameworks, including calibration and hazardous waste handling.
- Proficient in data visualisation or tools (e.g., GIS, SQL, statistical software).
What to Expect
- Accelerated learning in a world-class research environment.
- Exposure to cutting-edge projects, such as:
- Micro-Cycle (aquatic microbial systems)
- SMARTWATER (innovative water management)
- BIOPOLE (sustainable land-use science)
- The River Thames Initiative (citizen science and lake health monitoring)
- Immediate support from a senior scientist to grow your independence.
- Geospatial opportunities—skills and fieldwork skills extend beyond UK borders with experience.
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Our Values
Intellectual excellence, integrity, collaboration. At UKCEH, science and teamwork create impact.
How to Apply
Applications due by closing date. Frequent early application due to likely surge in interest. Connect via our Workday portal—create an account and respond to short-answer prompts without a mandatory cover letter.
**Key Questions (Word Limit: 150)]
- Please describe a time when you collected, processed, or analysed water/environmental data—your role, accuracy measures, and the impact of your work.
- Share an example of organising technical tasks, adapting to challenges, or following procedure with precision.
- Highlight an example of successful teamwork. What did you contribute, and what did you learn?
Why Work at UKCEH?
✅ exceptional benefits package (27 days’ leave, life assurance, flexible working, travel discounts). ✅ fully funded training and career growth plans with mentorship. ✔ remote dialysis, redecorated campus, gym, and community initiatives. ❤ inclusive work culture (" valued by purpose, diverse perspectives, and shared progress").
Equality, Diversity, & Inclusion
We welcome candidates reflecting various backgrounds and identities. As a Disability Confident Employer, adjustments are available throughout recruitment.
Important Note
We cannot offer visa sponsorship for this position. Self-sponsorship via a UK Global Talent Visa should be noted when applying.
For aspiration and UKCEH culture—visit our website.
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