Salary - £31,942 to £33,898
Fully site based
Based in Wallingford, Oxfordshire
We reserve the right to close this advert early if we find the right candidate, so we encourage you to apply early.
18-Month Fixed Term Contract and Full-Time (37 hours per week)
Closing date: 20th January 2026
UKCEH is looking for a Molecular Ecology Research Assistant to join our team of talented individuals, contributing to scientificdiscoveryand generating the data,insightsand solutions that researchers, industry and governments need to solve complex environmental challenges.
You’llbe joining our Molecular Ecology research group to provide laboratory and field support for a range of molecular and microbiologyresearchprojects. Our research focuses on applying genomics to study the composition and functions of biological communities in terrestrial and freshwater ecosystems.
Working across UKCEH, our research themes include using molecular analysis (DNA sequencing) to studyantimicrobial resistance,microbial ecology, biodiversity, and ecotoxicology.
This role gives you access to and training in using various techniques in our world-class molecular ecology laboratories in Wallingford, Oxfordshire, including DNA extraction, high-throughput sequencing, and single-cell imaging and sorting.
Your main responsibilities will include:
1. Preparation of sampling equipment
2. Culturing ofmicrobes fromenvironmental samples and isolates
3. Laboratory sample processingincluding but not limited tosample weighing, DNA extraction andassistingwith qPCR and metagenomic sequencing preparation
4. Disseminating information and results (supporting report writing for stakeholders/funders and academic publications)
5. Supporting project leads with stakeholder engagement
6. Assistingwith fieldwork in both aquatic and terrestrial environments
For the role of MolecularEcology Research Assistant,we’relooking for somebody who has:
7. A BSc (2:1 or above), an MSc or equivalent in microbiology, environmental sciences, molecular biology or similar
8. Laboratory experience, with an organised, methodical approach, and understands sample management and a good awareness of lab health and safety practices
9. Experience in microbiology techniques, such asaseptic transfers, media (broth and agar)preparationand microbialculturing
10. Excellent interpersonal and time management skills, with the ability to adapt to changing priorities and ensure an inclusive communication approach
11. An interestor experiencein relevant topics such asantimicrobial resistance,microbiology,environmentalresearchand environmentalpollution
Desirable:
12. Experience in molecular laboratory techniques (e.g., DNA extraction and quantitative PCR)
13. Is comfortable working in the field and with a range of samples – including wading in rivers and working with wastewater
14. Has a full UK driving licence –please confirm in your CV
You’llbe joining a leading independent, not-for-profit research institutethat’scommitted to recruiting talented people like you, progressing your career and giving you the support you need to thrive at UKCEH.
Working at UKCEH is rewarding. Our science makes a real difference, enabling people and the environment to prosper and enriching society. We are the custodians of a wealth of environmental data, collected by UKCEH and its predecessors over the course of more than 60 years.
As a valued member of our team,you’llget:
15. 27 days annual leave, plus 3 days for our Christmas closure
16. 10% employer pension contribution
17. Enhanced maternity and paternity leave (subject to qualifying requirements)
18. 24 hour, 365-day access to support with physical, mental, social, health or financial issuesplus access to our trained Welfare Officers
19. Flexible working opportunities
20. And much more...
Ifwe’vejust described you,we’dlove to meet you.Apply now.
Please send us your CV, accompanied by a covering letter which highlights any relevant skills and experience, together with what excites you most about the role and working for UKCEH.
Please note: Unfortunately, we are unable to offer visa sponsorship for this role and this does not qualify for endorsement to support a Global Talent Visa application. If you are considering pursuing self-sponsorship, please indicate this in your application so we can take it into account during the recruitment process.