Postdoctoral Research Associate

We have an exciting opportunity for a postdoctoral researcher to join Professor Tagliabue’s research group at the University of Liverpool. The group combines models and observations to investigate how the cycling of resources in the sea affects biological activity and vice-versa. The group is particularly interested in cycling of both major (e.g. nitrogen and phosphorus) and micro (e.g. iron and manganese) nutrients and how they interact together to shape primary production, ecosystem structure and the global carbon cycle. 

This specific post is focussed on ocean primary production and better understanding its response to climate change and historical variability using state-of-the-art ocean biogeochemical models. The exact scope of the post can be defined with the successful candidate and potential ideas should be presented in the application. It may focus on the emerging new understanding and constraints from observations and experimental work to (i) uncover the role played by resource limitation and grazing, (ii) address changes in external nutrient supplies (e.g. linked to anthropogenic activity or fire), (iii) quantify feedback between changes in productivity and ocean biogeochemical cycles or (iv) develop new representations of phytoplankton physiology/productivity. 

The post will be based around using and/or developing the ocean model PISCES, which is a complex model representing the cycling of carbon, major- and micro-nutrients and phyto- and zoo-plankton in the global ocean. At Liverpool, we use this model to assess the role of key mechanisms and how they shape the response of net primary production using historical and future climate simulations. The candidate will be expected to be responsible for conducting model simulations, interrogating results and integrating new processes and mechanisms. Working across modelling and observational-experimental disciplines is a key component of how we do our research.

You will also be part of the Department of Earth Oceans and Ecological Science, and wider University. We provide a strongly supportive environment for postdoctoral researchers, and the university is a signatory to the Researcher Development Concordat, and provides networking and development opportunities through the successful Prosper portal. 

The School of Environmental Sciences is an Athena SWAN Gold Award holder. We particularly welcome applications from scholars who identify with groups who continue to be underrepresented and who face barriers to inclusion in higher education. We believe that a diverse and supportive environment, bringing different perspectives to our work and allowing people to blossom is the best platform. 

This post is fixed term for 36 months.  

If you are still awaiting your PhD to be awarded you will be appointed at Grade 6, spine point 30. Upon written confirmation that you have been awarded your PhD, your salary will be increased to Grade 7, spine point 31. 

Commitment to Diversity

The University of Liverpool is committed to enhancing workforce diversity. We actively seek to attract, develop, and retain colleagues with diverse backgrounds and perspectives. We welcome applications from all genders/gender identities, Black, Asian, or Minority Ethnic backgrounds, individuals living with a disability, and members of the LGBTQIA+ community.

Closing Date: 12 November 2025 

For full details and to apply online, please click 'Apply’ button above to be redirected to our website.

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