Overview
We are looking to appoint a Research Assistant for a project in the Ecology and Evolutionary Biology research cluster in the School of Biosciences. Our group is interested in the dynamics of seabird populations and the impact of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza. The project will involve intensive monitoring of the survival and productivity of common guillemots on Skomer Island, Wales, during their breeding season. The project is funded by charitable donations and led by Professors Ben Hatchwell and Tim Birkhead.
Duties will include intensive observations of a colony of guillemots to identify colour-ringed birds, regular and systematic searches of other locations around the island for colour-ringed birds, and monitoring of productivity of a sample of pairs at the main study colony. Additional duties may arise according to unpredictable developments during the field season. The Research Assistant will be responsible for day-to-day organization of fieldwork tasks to fulfil these duties. The Research Assistant will maintain frequent contact with the PIs, liaising with them to ensure efficient and rigorous collection of field data.
Applicants must have a BSc or MSc (or equivalent experience) in a relevant biological discipline. Previous experience in field ornithology, experience of rigorous collection and handling of numerical data, the ability to work well in groups and independently, and knowledge, understanding and experience of safe fieldwork practice are essential.
Main Duties And Responsibilities
* Routinely work flexibly on weekdays and at weekends to carry out systematic monitoring activities.
* Re-sighting and recording of colour ringed birds at the main study colony and at other colonies on the island to enable an estimate of adult survival.
* Record timing of breeding and breeding success in a sample of breeding pairs at the main study colony.
* Count the number of adult guillemots at the main study colony on three equally spaced days during a specified census period.
* Record attendance at colonies following a systematic protocol.
* Record chick diet: fish species and size.
* Carry out other duties, commensurate with the grade and remit of the post
Person Specification
Our diverse community of staff and students recognises the unique abilities, backgrounds, and beliefs of all. We foster a culture where everyone feels they belong and is respected. Even if your past experience doesn\'t match perfectly with this role\'s criteria, your contribution is valuable, and we encourage you to apply. Please ensure that you reference the application criteria in the application statement when you apply.
Criteria
Essential Or Desirable
Stage(s) assessed at
BSc or MSc (or equivalent experience) in a relevant biological discipline
Application
Experience in field ornithology: observation of wild birds and ability to read and record accurately colour ring details.
Application / Interview
Experience of recording, managing and handling data to ensure rigorous entry into a database.
Application / Interview
Knowledge, understanding and willingness to follow guidelines in safe fieldwork practice.
Application / Interview
Effective written and verbal communication skills: report writing, developing relationships and working successfully with other researchers.
Application / Interview
Excellent organisational and planning skills with the ability to prioritise and plan own workload to agreed protocols and deadlines.
Application / Interview
Ability to develop creative approaches to problem solving and adapt own skills to new circumstances.
Application / Interview
Enthusiasm for biological research in a remote island setting.
Application / Interview
Prior experience of living in remote locations in a small community.
Application / Interview
Experience of working in rough terrain.
Further Information
Grade
6
Work arrangement
Full-time (35 hours per week)
Duration
Fixed term from 8 April 2026 to 8 August 2026
Line manager
Principal Investigator (Ben Hatchwell, Professor of Evolutionary Ecology)
Direct reports
None
Our website
School of Biosciences
For informal enquiries about this job contact Professor Ben Hatchwell (Professor of Evolutionary Ecology) at b.hatchwell@sheffield.ac.uk
Next steps in the recruitment process
It is anticipated that the selection process will take place in the weeks following the closing date. We plan to let candidates know if they have progressed to the selection stage within two weeks of the closing date. Contact bioscienceshradmin@sheffield.ac.uk if you are shortlisted for interview and require any reasonable adjustments.
Our vision and strategic plan
We are the University of Sheffield. This is our vision: sheffield.ac.uk/vision (opens in a new window).
What We Offer
* A minimum of 38 days annual leave including bank holiday and closure days (pro rata) with the ability to purchase more.
* Flexible working opportunities, including hybrid working for some roles.
* A wide range of discounts and rewards on shopping, eating out and travel.
* A variety of staff networks, providing opportunities for social interaction, peer support and personal development (for example, Race Equality, LGBT+, Women’s and Parent’s networks).
* Recognition Awards to reward staff who go above and beyond in their role.
* A range of generous family-friendly policies
* paid time off for parenting and caring emergencies
* support for those going through the menopause
* paid time off and support for fertility treatment
* and more
More details can be found on our benefits page: sheffield.ac.uk/jobs/benefits (opens in a new window).
We are a Disability Confident Employer. If you have a disability and meet the essential criteria for this job you will be invited to take part in the next stage of the selection process.
Closing Date : 18/02/2026
We are a research university with a global reputation for excellence. Our ideas and expertise change the world for the better, making a real difference to society. We know that when people come together with different views, approaches and insights it can lead to richer, more creative and innovative teaching and research and the highest levels of student experience. Our University Vision (www.sheffield.ac.uk/vision) outlines our commitment to building a diverse community of staff and students that recognises and values the abilities, backgrounds, beliefs and ways of living for everyone.
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