Reference:
0363-26
Post-doctoral Research Associate – Coral Reef Ecology (Horizon Europe funded) Lancaster Environment Centre, Lancaster University.
An exciting opportunity exists for a coral reef scientist or marine community ecologist to contribute to a Horizon Europe funded project: The role of connectivity in safeguarding functioning coastal ecosystems under global change.
We are seeking a highly motivated and enthusiastic marine scientist to contribute to a project investigating the links between mangroves, seagrasses and coral reefs in the context of seabird nutrient inputs. This is a multi-institutional project, led by University of Bremen. Lancaster University is leading the ecology component focused on the Seychelles, with a particular focus on Aldabra Atoll and the inner islands marine parks. Fieldwork for the project will include long periods in remote locations, working in small teams, and experience of such working will be essential. The project will identify key sites where mangrove to coral reef connectivity can be mapped and investigated, assess species and nutrient connectivity across the seascape, and investigate outcomes for both ecosystem functioning and food security. Patterns of seabird densities in mangrove stands will be used as a study design to investigate the influence of seabird derived nutrient inputs on seascape connectivity. Co-mentoring of a PhD student on the same project will be part of the role. Applicants are encouraged to think through their own ideas about these linkages and how their area of expertise could be applied to this study design. You will work closely with Prof Nick Graham and Dr James Robinson on this project, and collaborate with partners at Seychelles Islands Foundation and Seychelles Parks and Gardens Authority, and with other universities in the consortium.
Preferred candidates will have a PhD in marine science, extensive experience of fieldwork in remote settings, and skills in statistical modelling, and writing publications. A proactive and enthusiastic approach and good interpersonal skills are essential.
Lancaster University is a research-intensive university, ranked in the top 15 of UK universities. The Lancaster Environment Centre (LEC) is a large and multidisciplinary department, tackling environmental challenges across the natural and social sciences. Within LEC, there is particular strength in high diversity tropical systems, including coral reefs and tropical rainforests. LEC offers a highly collegial and stimulating environment for career development based on departmental values and embedded Equality, Diversity and Inclusivity (EDI) considerations and actions. Applicants from diverse backgrounds are encouraged to apply.
We anticipate interviews will be held in June 2026. The contract is for 3.5 years.
What to include in each document of your application:
Cover Letter Please discuss why you are interested specifically in this position, and how it fits with your career goals. Please also describe any skills you have developed that are relevant to this post, and how you may seek to develop this area of research.
CV Please include a 2-page CV.
Supporting Statements: Please provide a supporting statement for each Personal Specification point that is listed as being scored via “Supporting Statements”. This should include examples that provide evidence of your experience and expertise. Aim for one paragraph per criteria (~50-200 words).
Referees: Contact information for at least two referees.
For more information, see the Further Information link below.