British Antarctic Survey
Reference: BAS 25/139
Contract type: Fixed-Term Appointment - 2 years
Location: Cambridge
Salary: £42,688 to £46,957 Band D S2
Closing date: 4 January 2026
Purpose
The British Antarctic Survey (BAS), part of the Natural Environment Research Council (NERC), delivers and enables world-leading interdisciplinary research in the polar regions. We are seeking a Phytoplankton Ecologist to work on field sample analysis across multiple research projects. The data gained from the analysis will fill gaps in knowledge in Arctic and Antarctic phytoplankton ecology. Much of the analysis will be focused on samples collected during field expeditions for the BIOPOLE project which aims to better understand biogeochemical processes and ecosystem function in the rapidly changing polar systems. Other samples will provide vital information on the primary production around the island of South Georgia, one of the most biologically productive regions in the Southern Ocean.
The postholder should have experience in laboratory analysis techniques used in marine ecology. This includes extensive knowledge of working safely with chemicals and experience with microscopy techniques. The postholder must be capable of working independently and be self-motivated to complete the work agreed in consultation with their line-manager.
This is an exciting opportunity to contribute to innovative research projects and expand the scientific knowledge of polar phytoplankton ecology. The postholder will be a member of the Ecosystems science team and have numerous opportunities to engage with a variety of research disciplines within BAS. Informal enquiries about the post are very welcome and should be addressed to Amanda Burson ( amburso@bas.ac.uk ).
You will be joining the Ecosystems team which aims to understand the combined impacts of global climate-driven change and commercial fishing on polar marine ecosystems.
You will analyse and help to interpret a suite of phytoplankton ecological samples including by microscopic identification, particulate organic nutrient content analysis, flow cytometry analysis and pigment profile analysis. Your research will contribute to the knowledge and understanding of phytoplankton community structure and dynamics in the polar regions.
Within the role, there will be opportunity to develop skills in phytoplankton taxonomy, laboratory analysis, and scientific synthesis. Within BAS there are multiple opportunities for staff to upskill, from technical abilities using scientific software and equipment to interpersonal and leadership training.
The Ecosystems science team you'll be joining has ongoing projects that span a broad spectrum of scientific fields and interest, from monitoring and modelling zooplankton, fish and higher predator populations in the Antarctic to deploying moorings to better understand carbon cycling in our oceans. You'll be joining a world-leading interdisciplinary research organisation that is committed to recruiting talented people like you, progressing your career and giving you the support you need to thrive at BAS.
Duties
* Microscopy identification and enumeration of Lugol's samples
* Processing of pigment samples (chlorophyll a and HPLC)
* Processing of particulate organic nitrogen, phosphorous and carbon samples
* Flow cytometry analysis of phytoplankton and bacteria
* Data processing and interpretation, working with the project lead and the wider science team
Skills, Qualifications, and Experience
Essential
* PhD or equivalent experience, in biology, biochemistry, marine sciences or phytoplankton ecology
* Laboratory analytical skills
* Experience working with chemicals
* Microscopy skills
* Numerical analysis and interpretation skills
* Good range of scientific computing/IT skills
* Proficient in written and spoken English language
* Ability to work independently and with a small team
* Ability to prioritise tasks when presented with a range of options and manage time effectively
Desirable
* Knowledge of phytoplankton taxonomy
* Experience in oceanography or limnology
* Familiarity with peer-reviewed publication process
* Experience of software packages associated with lab equipment
As a BAS employee, you'll be eligible for the following benefits:
* 30 days annual leave plus bank holidays and 2.5 privilege days
* Civil Service pension (with 26% or more employer contribution, depending on your band)
* 24 hours/365 days access to employee assistance programme (including support with physical, mental, social, health and financial issues)
* Flexible and family friendly working opportunities
* Cycle to work scheme
* Access to discounted shopping on a range of retail, leisure, and lifestyle categories and much more
We will give full consideration to requests for flexible and part time working, such as reduced hours, compressed hours or job sharing. We also offer hybrid working and recognise the many benefits this brings. The nature of the role will determine if flexible and hybrid working options are possible.
The pay band minimum is the normal starting pay for those new to a role. In exceptional circumstances, when relevant skills and experience can be identified, a higher starting salary may be considered.
UKRI - UK Research and Innovation
UKRI is an organisation that brings together the seven disciplinary research councils, Research England and Innovate UK. Together, we build an independent organisation with a strong voice and vision ensuring the UK maintains its world-leading position in research and innovation.
Supporting some of the world's most exciting and challenging research projects, we develop and operate some of the most remarkable scientific facilities in the world. We are pushing the frontiers of human knowledge through fundamental research and delivering benefits for UK society and the economy through world-class research, skills and business-led innovation.
More information can be found at www.ukri.org .
Choosing to come to work at UKRI means that you will have access to a whole host of benefits from a defined benefit pension scheme, excellent holiday entitlement, access to employee shopping/travel discounts and salary sacrifice cycle to work scheme. For more details, visit benefits of working for UKRI .
How we support EDI in the workforce
At UKRI, we believe that everyone has a right to be treated with dignity and respect, and to be provided with equal opportunities to thrive and succeed in an environment that enables them to do so. We also value diversity of thought and experience within inclusive groups, organisations and the wider community. For further information, please visit 'How we support EDI in the workforce'.
Disability Confident Employer
As users of the disability confident scheme, we guarantee to interview all applicants with a disability who opt into the disability confident scheme and meet the minimum criteria for the role. We will ensure that individuals with disabilities are provided reasonable accommodation to participate in the job application or interview process, to perform essential job functions, and to receive other benefits and privileges of employment. Please contact us to request accommodation.
How to apply
Online applications only preferred for this role. Please submit a CV and covering letter which clearly outlines how you fulfil the criteria specified along with your motivation for UKRI and the role. Ensure that the job reference number is included in the filename description of each document uploaded. Note that failure to address the above criteria or submit an application without a covering letter may result in the application not being considered. Assessment will only be based upon the content of your submitted covering letter and CV and not the 'experience' section of the application.
UKRI seeks to ensure it creates and maintains a system of openness, fairness and inclusion - a collaborative, trusted environment, which is attractive to and accessible to everyone who is interested in developing their career with us.
The role holder will be required to have the appropriate level of security screening/vetting required for the role. UKRI reserves the right to run or re-run security clearance as required during the course of employment.