Join us at the University of Plymouth in uncovering how the subsurface can help power a low-carbon future. We’re seeking a passionate geochemist to investigate groundwater interactions with ground source energy systems.
About the role
This opportunity is for a 26 month Research Fellow position working on the EPSRC project ‘Mitigating Risks of Mineralisation and biofilms in Open Loop thermal Energy Systems (MRMOLES). You will be based at the University of Plymouth, and collaborating with the microbiology unit at the British Geology Survey in Keyworth, Nottingham. The project will involve field visits to UK sites, developing laboratory flow through apparatus, geochemical and microbiological analyses and modelling to determine the nature of how problematic solid-phases are formed in these systems.
The role will require you to undertake research in aqueous geochemistry, including desk, lab and/or field-based activities, delivering high quality outputs on time and, working collaboratively and productively within the research team, University and wider community.
For more information on School of Geography Earth and Environmental Sciences please visit our dedicated webpage at
For this role, you will primarily be based at the University of Plymouth’s main campus. Although we can accommodate occasional remote working, flexibility to be on-site will be expected to conduct laboratory work.
We do expect you to join us for fieldwork and undertake a short placement at the BGS in Nottingham, however the details of this can be agreed once you are in position. An alternative plan will be set up if you are unable to travel easily. You would, however be required to work in the lab on main campus, and whilst averaged over the 26 months this would equate to around 2 days/week, there will busy times when you will be required to be on campus 5 days/week.
For an informal discussion to find out more about the role then please contact Matt Bailey Ross: by email at
Please note: We’re currently unable to sponsor this role under the Skilled Worker visa route. However, we welcome all applicants, as other visa options may be available.
What we’re looking for
You will:
* Have completed a PhD in aqueous geochemistry or related topic
* Be confident working in a collaborative team environment and delivering research objectives and outputs on time and to a high standard.
We will provide topic specific training on field data collection and sampling, in addition to geochemical modelling.
For more information about the job and the person specification, please refer to the job description.
About us
You will be joining a small team at the start of this exciting new project, joining a welcoming and collegiate School by the seaside! Your permanent base will be in Plymouth, with a short secondment to the British Geological Survey's geomicrobiology unit in Keyworth.
The School of Geography Earth and Environmental Sciences holds a Bronze Athena SWAN award in recognition of our commitment to advance gender equality in higher education.
The University of Plymouth has a strong interdisciplinary research ethos which is supported by our two strategic Research Institutes; the Marine Institute and the Sustainable Earth Institute. As a member of our academic community, you’ll be expected to contribute to our recognised research strengths. Working holistically across the University, you will be challenged to innovate, collaborate and deliver impactful research contributions as part of a systems thinking approach to addressing today’s global challenges.
Application Process
Please apply online, demonstrating how you meet the essential criteria outlined in the knowledge, qualifications, training, skills and experience elements of the job description in your supporting statement.
Following the closing date of the vacancy, you will be notified on the outcome of your application in due course.
Our Offer
We have a wide range of staff benefits available to employees, depending on eligibility:
* Generous annual leave: 35 Days Annual Leave plus Bank Holidays & Closure Days
* Generous pension scheme
* Cycle to Work & Electric Car Scheme
* Employee Assistance Programme
* Development opportunities
* Enhanced family leave
* Flexible working
* Retailer discounts
* On-site nursery
A summary of our comprehensive benefits can be viewed .
Additional Information
The University of Plymouth is an inclusive community where everyone is welcomed regardless of their background. To find out more about our inclusive community initiatives, such as Athena Swan and the Race Equality Charter, please visit our .