Postdoctoral Research Assistant

Full time, Fixed Term (2 years)

Applications are invited for the post of Postdoctoral Research Assistant in the Department of Biological Sciences

We are seeking a 2-year Postdoctoral Research Assistant, starting in January 2025 (or as soon as possible thereafter), to join a research project funded by UKRI-NERC. This project - a collaboration with Professor Phil Stevenson at the Royal Botanic Gardens Kew - will investigate the impact of plant secondary chemicals on wild bee health, specifically through the mitigation of parasitic disease. We hope that our results will make major contributions to habitat management for pollinator health in the UK and beyond. The postholder will be based within the research team of Professor Mark Brown, and will be responsible for developing laboratory, semi-field, and field experiments, including work with live bumble bees. They will work in close collaboration with a PDRA based at Kew in Professor Stevenson’s team. The post is an excellent opportunity for a postdoctoral scientist with a strong interest in wild pollinator conservation, the impacts of parasites and plant chemicals on pollinator health, and applied policy and practice. 

The successful candidate will have a PhD in a relevant subject area within the Biological Sciences (at or near completion), and a strong record of publication within their subject area as appropriate to career stage. A full clean driving licence that is valid in the UK is essential as the research will involve field studies across SE England. Experience of conducting laboratory experiments and ecological fieldwork is essential, as is experience of working with insects. Knowledge of GIS systems would be an advantage. Evidence of strong project management and collaborative skills will be important. We are seeking a researcher who will contribute actively to our departmental community through participation in research activity, research seminars, lab meetings, mentorship initiatives and outreach. The postholder must be available to complete fieldwork in SE England that may involve residential stays away from home and none-standard working hours (night work). 

In return we offer a highly competitive rewards and benefits package including:

• Generous annual leave entitlement 
• Training and Development opportunities
• Pension Scheme with generous employer contribution 
• Various schemes including Cycle to Work, Season Ticket Loans and help with the cost of Eyesight testing. 
• Free parking 

The post is based in Egham, Surrey where the College is situated in a beautiful, leafy campus near to Windsor Great Park and within commuting distance from London. It is not suitable for hybrid working.

For an informal discussion about the post, please contact Mark Brown (Mark.Brown@rhul.ac.uk).

Applicants are strongly advised to get in contact before submitting an application.

For queries on the application process the Human Resources Department can be contacted by email at: recruitment@rhul.ac.uk 

Please quote the reference: 1024-311

Interview Date: To be Confirmed

Further details:   Job Description & Person Specification  

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