Senior Research Associate-Scaling up restoration of tropical marine ecosystems

Senior Research Associate: Pioneering Large-Scale Tropical Marine Ecosystem Restoration

For environmental scientists passionate about impactful research and hands-on conservation, this Senior Research Associate position within the Lancaster REEFs group presents a compelling career opportunity. This role is at the forefront of scaling up restoration efforts for vital tropical marine ecosystems, including coral reefs, mangroves, and seagrasses. If you are driven to make a tangible difference in ecological conservation, this position offers a unique platform to shape the future of marine restoration.

Key Advantages for Aspiring Candidates:

• Impactful Research: Contribute to a UKRI-funded project (ENTERPRISE) focused on quantifying the ecological outcomes of large-scale marine restoration, particularly those involving private sector investment. Your work will directly inform and guide these crucial initiatives.
• Global Reach and Fieldwork: This role involves both analyzing existing global datasets and leading fieldwork expeditions to generate new data. You will have the opportunity to engage with diverse international partners and contribute to projects with a significant global footprint.
• Interdisciplinary Collaboration: Work closely with leading academics, PhD students, and partners from corporate accounting and business sustainability. This interdisciplinary approach will broaden your perspective and enhance your ability to translate ecological data into practical, high-impact solutions.
• Career Development and Training: Lancaster University is a globally recognized research institution committed to your professional growth. You will benefit from high-quality training, a supportive collegial environment, and dedicated resources to meet your training needs.
• Flexibility and Support: While the role is full-time, there's flexibility for part-time arrangements, and informal enquiries are welcomed. For international candidates, comprehensive support for visa application processes and costs is provided.
• Visionary Research: You are encouraged to bring your own innovative ideas to the table, exploring how to effectively upscale large-scale restoration and apply your expertise to this critical research area.
• Prestigious Institution: Join the Lancaster Environment Centre (LEC), a multidisciplinary hub renowned for its strengths in tropical systems and its commitment to Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI).

Key Considerations for Your Career Path:

• Essential Qualifications: A PhD in marine science, restoration ecology, or ecological modelling is preferred. Demonstrable experience in experimental design, ecological surveys, leading fieldwork, data management, statistical analysis, publication writing, and stakeholder engagement is crucial.
• Tropical Marine Expertise: While not strictly mandatory, prior experience in tropical marine restoration, especially in Southeast Asia, will be highly advantageous given the project's partner base.
• Proactive and Collaborative Mindset: Success in this role requires a proactive, enthusiastic approach, strong interpersonal and teamwork skills, and the ability to navigate cross-cultural and language differences. A clear vision for impact-driven science is essential.
• Contract Duration: The initial contract is for three years, with a strong emphasis on pursuing opportunities for extension through grant applications and collaborative projects.
• Location and Work Arrangements: The position is based in Lancaster, requiring at least three days per week in person, with travel for collaborations and fieldwork as needed.
• Application Process: Carefully review the application requirements, including the CV, publication list, cover letter, and supporting statements. Tailor your application to demonstrate how your experience and aspirations align with the role's objectives.

This Senior Research Associate position offers a profound opportunity to advance your career in ecological restoration. If you are a motivated scientist eager to contribute to significant, large-scale conservation initiatives and thrive in a dynamic, collaborative research environment, we encourage you to explore this exciting prospect.