Job Summary: The Research Assistant will conduct experimental work to investigate the impact of sediment on flow measurements and weir operation, with a focus on identifying and quantifying associated uncertainties. The role will involve laboratory experiments, field visits, and desk-based studies to collect, analyse, and interpret data, followed by report writing and documentation of findings. In addition, the Research Assistant will support the preparation and delivery of presentations for internal and external audiences, including academic and industry partners.
Key Deliverables
* Performance evaluation of flow measurement and weir operations under sediment‑influenced conditions.
* Development of guidance and technical documentation in alignment with European Committee for Standardisation (CEN) and International Standards Organisation (ISO) standards to address the global need for standardisation in this area.
* Undertake the collection of research data; this may be through a variety of research methods, such as scientific experimentation, literature reviews, and research interviews.
* Design, implement, test and document appropriate research methods associated with the particular area of research.
* Develop and maintain skills in relevant research methodologies.
* Ensure that full and accurate documentation is kept for all work and that all policies and processes, including quality assurance, are maintained and adhered to.
* Liaise with other researchers, both internal and external, and collaborate to execute project deliverables.
* Contribute to the analysis of research data as directed, liaise regularly with the principal investigator about study progress, and write progress reports as required.
* Assist in the preparation and submission of papers for presentation at regional, national or international conferences and for publication in peer‑review journals.
* Prepare papers for steering groups and other bodies. Present information on research progress and outcomes to bodies supervising research.
* Assist in the preparation of proposals and applications to external bodies for funding and contractual purposes.
* Provide guidance as required to support staff and any students who may be assisting with research.
* Carry out administrative tasks related to the delivery of the research, planning work to agreed specifications, time and quality standards.
* Deal with problems that may affect the achievement of research objectives and deadlines.
* Maintain high standards of academic and commercial confidentiality. Comply with relevant protocols regarding data confidentiality and security.
* Join external networks to share information and identify potential sources of funding.
* Attend and contribute to research/subject group meetings.
* Engage with and participate in the University's appraisal process.
* LJMU is committed to adhering to the Principles set out in the Researcher Development Concordat; in line with this all fixed‑term researchers will be supported to complete 10 days professional development activities per year (pro‑rata).
Teaching and Learning
* Assist in the development of student research skills.
Citizenship
* Contribute to a supportive working environment and develop productive working relationships with other team members.
* Attend and contribute to staff meetings.
* Act as an ambassador for the University in all interactions with current and prospective staff and students, visitors to the University, external partners, media and the general public.
* Promote the University's values of an inclusive and diverse community.
Post Specific Duties
* Conduct laboratory experiments to investigate the influence of sediment on flow measurements and weir operations and assist in the design, set‑up, calibration, and maintenance of experimental equipment and instrumentation.
* Undertake site visits to collect flow and sediment data, ensuring accurate recording and safe working practices.
* Conduct interviews and consultations with relevant stakeholders to gather insights on practical challenges and industry needs related to flow measurement and sediment management.
* Perform data processing, statistical analysis, and interpretation to evaluate measurement uncertainties and contribute to the preparation of technical reports, publications, and presentations summarising research findings.
* Support the development of performance evaluation methods and standards in accordance with ISO and CEN frameworks.
* Participate in regular team meetings, providing progress updates and contributing to discussions on research outcomes.
* Any other duties commensurate with the grade as deemed necessary by the line manager.
* A commitment to LJMU's values and regulations and Equality and Diversity Policy.
* Commitment to adhere to and promote the ethos of Respect Always as set out in the Respect Always Charter.
* Liverpool John Moores University recognises and is aware of its Social, Economic and Environmental responsibilities. The post holder is required to minimise the environmental impact in the performance of the role, contribute to (and supervise if applicable) the implementation of environmental improvement measures and actively contribute to the delivery of LJMU's Environmental Management and Sustainability Policy and the Climate Change Action Plan.
* The post-holder's mandatory Health and Safety responsibilities, which have been agreed by the University's Executive Leadership Team, are contained in Section 2 of the University's Safety Management Code of Practice (MCP1) Organisation for the Implementation of the Health and Safety Policy.
* The post-holder's mandatory Environmental Management responsibilities are contained in Section 2 of the University's Environmental Management Code of Practice (ECP1) Organisation for the Implementation of the Environmental Management and Sustainability Policy.
Financial Benefits
* Competitive salaries based on a low contractual 35 hour working week.
* 17.5% employer contributions to pensions for non‑academic staff enrolled into the Local Government Pension Scheme (LGPS).
* 28.68% employer contribution to pensions for teaching staff enrolled into the Teachers' Pension Scheme (TPS).
* Work life balance: Excellent annual leave provision – 30 days for support staff and 35 days for staff and senior managers grade 8 and above.
* 8 UK bank holidays and up to 5 University closure days between Christmas and New Year.
* Family friendly policies and a range of benefits to support including job‑shares, flexible working hours and part‑time roles where possible.
* Health and wellbeing: Regular wellbeing support initiatives throughout the year. Access to a trained counsellor via Employee Assistance Programme (EAP). Plus a programme of activities and range of support and resources to help look after your mental and physical wellbeing.
* Career Benefits: Continuous development opportunities to enhance your knowledge and meet your career ambitions, including LinkedIn Learning.
* Making a difference: LJMU Climate Action – be at the forefront of initiatives to tackle climate change. Share experiences and challenge unfair practices with our Diversity and Inclusion Staff Networks. Opportunity to volunteer at graduation ceremonies, clearing and open days.
* Discounts and other benefits: A reward and benefits platform, giving savings on day‑to‑day purchases across a range of retail outlets. Interest free loans repayable across twelve monthly instalments, including loans for annual travel season tickets and cycle to work scheme. Massively discounted gym and fitness classes at the University Sport Building.
Person Specification
The person specification describes the skills, experience, knowledge and aptitude required to perform the duties of this post effectively. The criteria order listed should not be taken to imply their relative importance.
* A good degree in Civil Engineering, Environmental Engineering, Applied Hydraulics, Water Resources, or a closely related discipline.
* Experience conducting laboratory and/or field‑based research on water engineering, hydraulics, or environmental systems.
* Strong analytical and problem‑solving skills, with attention to detail and data quality.
* Ability to work independently and as part of a multidisciplinary team.
* Able to organise own research activities to meet deadlines and quality standards.
* Experience preparing technical documentation, research reports, or experimental records.
* Able to write up research results for publication in leading peer‑review journals/conferences.
* Effective written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to present research findings clearly to technical and non‑technical audiences.
* Awareness of health and safety considerations in laboratory and field environments.
* Experience with hydraulic structures, including operation, maintenance, or performance assessment of weirs and flumes.
* Knowledge of uncertainty analysis and performance evaluation methods for flow measurement systems.
* Familiarity with CEN and ISO standards relevant to flow measurement and hydraulic testing.
* Experience in designing experimental setups or instrumentation calibration.
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