Overview
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Research Associate in Applied Dairy Nutrition
Full Time (35 hours / week)
Fixed Term (2 years)
Reference: ASWF/DRC/009/25
Closing date for applications: 19 October 2025
About the Team
SRUC is unique in Scotland and one of the largest organisations of its kind in Europe. Our ambitious and exciting vision is to work at local, national and international levels, leading innovation and sustainable development in agriculture and rural sectors.
The Opportunity
SRUC (Scotland’s Rural College) is seeking a highly motivated Research Associate to join our Dairy Research & Innovation Centre at the Barony Campus. This is an exciting opportunity to contribute to cutting-edge research in dairy cow nutrition and environmental sustainability.
You will be responsible for leading the planning and day-to-day execution of feeding studies focused on dairy nutrition and greenhouse gas emissions. The role involves working with advanced equipment, including individual feed intake recording systems and GreenFeed methane measurement technology, to deliver high-impact research. Areas of study include feeding strategies, nutritional interventions, feed supplements, methane mitigation techniques, and nutrition aspects related to the Langhill genetic study.
In addition to managing trials, you will support the development of research proposals, contribute to knowledge exchange activities, and peer-reviewed publications. You will collaborate with internal and external stakeholders and play a key role in advancing SRUC’s research agenda.
You’ll be part of a dynamic team working on real-world challenges with access to state-of-the-art facilities and opportunities for professional development.
Responsibilities
* Lead planning and day-to-day execution of feeding studies focused on dairy nutrition and environmental sustainability.
* Work with advanced equipment, including feeding systems and methane measurement technology.
* Develop and implement feeding strategies, nutritional interventions, and methane mitigation techniques.
* Support the development of research proposals and contribute to knowledge exchange activities and publications.
* Collaborate with internal and external stakeholders to advance SRUC’s research agenda.
Qualifications
* Degree in animal science, agricultural science, or a related field; postgraduate qualification preferred.
* Experience in livestock research, particularly dairy nutrition, is desirable.
* Strong analytical and organisational skills, with excellent communication and teamwork abilities.
* Full details of duties and requirements are in the Job Particulars document to read before applying.
Eligibility
This role is not eligible for sponsorship under the Skilled Worker route.
Benefits
* Generous annual leave
* Enhanced pension contributions
* Cycle to work scheme
* Generous family leave
* Hybrid working solutions (in some areas)
* Tailored investment in learning and development
How to Apply
Please complete an online application form by pressing “apply”.
SRUC is committed to valuing Diversity, advancing Equality and respecting Human Rights throughout the organisation and encouraging applications from disabled people using the “Disability Confident Employer” symbol. SRUC is a member of the Athena SWAN charter.
SRUC. A Charitable company limited by guarantee, SC003712. Registered in Scotland No SC103046
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