Division: Department of Biology, MPLS

Job duration: 23 June – 6 July 2024 (2 weeks)

Application deadline: 17:00 on Monday 27 May 2024

Overview of the role

The postholder will assist with ecological fieldwork in the Scottish Highlands. The field assistant will work alongside a postdoctoral researcher, assisting with soil sampling,
invertebrate sampling, and plant and tree monitoring in remnant native woodland in the Scottish Highlands. This is part of a project exploring the impact of tree regeneration on soil carbon and belowground processes in remnant woodlands in the Scottish Highlands (more information on the broader project available here).

We are seeking a candidate with an interest in ecology and conservation in the UK. Experience of and enthusiasm for outdoor work are essential – we will be working outdoors
in a beautiful part of the Scottish Highlands in all weathers.

The post holder must be available for the period 23 June to 6 July. Accommodation will be provided for the job duration and travel expenses to the fieldwork site will be covered.

Contact emily.warner@biology.ox.ac.uk for further information. Please send a cover letter (one side A4) and a CV to emily.warner@biology.ox.ac.uk by 17:00 on 27 May 2024, interviews are anticipated to be held in w/c 3 June. Please also provide the contact details of a referee, who will be contacted if you are offered the post. You must also be able to provide proof of your right-to-work in the UK.

Responsibilities/duties

• Assisting with setting up sampling plots in the field
• Assisting with sample collection in the field and maintaining quality control
• Assisting with data recording
• Contributing to the smooth running of the fieldwork period e.g. by helping to prepare sampling equipment

Selection criteria

Essential

• Enthusiasm for outdoor working and a good level of fitness
• Interest in ecology, environmental science and UK conservation
• Educated to at least A-level or equivalent qualification in science
• Highly organised with strong attention to detail, with the ability to organise samples and record results in a clear and organised fashion
• A team-player with good communication skills

Desirable

• Hold or working towards a degree in ecology, biology, environmental science or a related discipline
• Experience of ecological data collection (particularly soil sampling, pitfall trapping, plant surveys)
• Taxonomic expertise in plant identification

Pre-employment screening

Standard checks

If you are offered the post, the offer will be subject to standard pre-employment checks. You will be asked to provide: proof of your right-to-work in the UK; proof of your identity; and (if we haven’t done so already) we will contact the referee you have nominated. You will also be asked to complete a health declaration so that you can tell us about any health conditions or disabilities for which you may need us to make appropriate adjustments.