Research Fellow in Technology for Water Pollution Monitoring

Full Time Fixed Term to 01/02/2026

Interview Date: To be confirmed

We are looking for an enthusiastic researcher to join an exciting new project funded by the Natural Environment Research Council to develop new technology for monitoring pollution in rivers and lakes.

You will work as part of an interdisciplinary team (including engineers, environmental scientists, and data scientists) developing samplers that will enable governmental bodies to monitor organic pollutants (pesticides, pharmaceuticals, industrial chemicals etc) at much lower cost and greater detail. You will be based at Southampton’s Highfield Campus as part of the School of Engineering - one of the country’s foremost centres for engineering research (ranked 4^th in the most recent REF). You will have access to a range of 3D printing facilities, traditional engineering workshops, electronics workshops, mechanical testing facilities, and water tanks for testing that support the development of cutting-edge new technology. In addition to the sampler development and lab-testing you will work closely with collaborators from the University of Portsmouth in the field-testing of the technology at existing test sites. You will be expected to disseminate the technology and results by preparing journal papers and by presenting at relevant international conferences.

You should have a PhD or equivalent professional experience in mechanical engineering (or a similar engineering discipline). Applicants with a PhD in a relevant science and appropriate practical engineering experience will also be considered. A practical background is essential and you should have good skills in computer aided design and mechanical fabrication techniques, as well as the ability to critically assess prototype designs based on testing results. Experience of systems design or working with electromechanical systems is desirable. You should be able to work and communicate efficiently with other researchers, including supervisors, students, technicians, and postdoctoral researchers who may have very different backgrounds to your own. You will have a good track record in conducting independent and original research and publishing in research journals. 

Applications for Research Fellow positions will be considered from candidates who are working towards or nearing completion of a relevant PhD qualification.  The title of Research Fellow will be applied upon successful completion of the PhD.  Prior to the qualification being awarded the title of Senior Research Assistant will be given.

Working at the University of Southampton gives you access to a wide range of benefits in addition to our competitive rates of pay. Our core benefits include pension scheme membership; a generous annual leave allowance (supplemented by University closure days and public holidays) and excellent family leave arrangements (including maternity, paternity, adoption and parental leave).

As a university we aim to create an environment where everyone can thrive and we believe we can only truly meet our objectives if we are reflective of society. We welcome applications from candidates who are committed to helping us create an inclusive work environment. We encourage applications from candidates from black, asian & minority ethnic communities, people identifying as LGBTQ+; & people with disabilities. We would particularly welcome applications from candidates from working class, first generation higher education, the global south and other underrepresented groups.  

If you wish to discuss the role in more detail, please email Dr Adrian Nightingale: a.nightingale@soton.ac.uk

Further details:

We are committed to equality, diversity & inclusion and welcome applicants who support our mission of inclusivity.

Apply by 11.59pm GMT on the closing date.

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