Postdoctoral Research Assistant/Scientist (PDRA) Positions x 2 - Microplastics and Multistressors

Contract type: Fixed term 3 years (36 months), with the possibility of extension

Location: Plymouth, UK

Hours: 37 hours per week (Full time) 

About The Role

We are seeking to appoint two Postdoctoral Research Assistant/Scientists to join the new Microplastics and Marine Pollution group at the Marine Biological Association in Plymouth. These roles are funded by the UKRI project Microplastics and multistressor effects on marine ecosystems in the context of global change (MICROMIX), led by Dr Alice Horton. The two PDRAs will have relevant and complementary expertise and skills to support the project’s goals. The post-holders will undertake experimental design and execution, sample processing and analysis, data analysis and preparation of peer-reviewed scientific manuscripts for publication. The positions will also involve engagement with the wider scientific community, including presentation of research findings at workshops and conferences.

Microplastics are a global concern, contaminating every environment that has been studied: in air, land, rivers and the sea. There is now substantial evidence to suggest that microplastics are regularly entering the bodies of organisms that are exposed, with potentially long-term negative effects for ecosystems. However, microplastics are but one of many stressors with the potential to affect organisms. In this respect, when considering the effects of microplastics, it is essential that we also account for the wider stressors, and the interactive (‘multistressor’) effects that these will have when combined. This is increasingly important in the context of increasing environmental contamination and global environmental change.

This project will address various aspects of microplastics as a chronic multistressor to marine organisms including:

• Experimentally investigating the effects of microplastics alongside key stressors including chemicals of emerging concern (such as PFAS, tyre additives and UV stabilisers) and ocean warming on various invertebrate species
• Assessing the effects of microplastics on microbial and microbiome communities
• Analysis of archived time-series samples to investigate whether microplastic contamination and thus organism exposure has increased through the decades
• Use of predictive tools to determine likely future risk in a rapidly changing environment 

The MBA has excellent aquatic experimental facilities including the Seawater Hall Aquarium and multiple CT rooms. The Marine Microbiome Centre of Excellence at the MBA was opened in 2023 and includes the Mary Parke Bioimaging Centre.

Working at the MBA also provides unique access to the CPR Survey and associated expertise, enabling analysis of samples dating from the 1950s (corresponding with the inception of our ‘plastic age’). Experienced technician support is available across all facilities.

Salary and benefits

• Salary based on experience within the range above
• 30 days annual leave plus Bank Holidays
• 3 Privilege Days given by the MBA (used during festive closure week)
• Sick pay
• Pension scheme – the MBA will contribute 10% of basic salary into a defined contribution scheme with staff making a 3% minimum contribution. The MBA will match additional employee contributions up to an additional 5%
• Flexible and hybrid working arrangements
• Cycle to work scheme
• Low-cost bookable parking on site 

For more information on the role and person requirements please see the Job Description 

Equal Opportunities

We welcome applications from all suitably qualified candidates and seek talented people with diverse backgrounds and perspectives in order to enhance all that we do. 

How to apply

Please email via the 'Apply' button above (E:recruitment@mba.ac.uk) quoting reference 1225PDRASAH.  You will need to provide three things to apply:

1. Covering letter that outlines your previous and most relevant experience and explains how and why this makes you right for the role.
2. CV of education and employment history along with details of two referees (one must be your current employer). References for shortlisted candidates may be sought in advance of interview but only with the permission of the candidate.
3. Confirmation of your right to live and work in the UK. *Non UK applicants can apply. Where a share code is provided, please also include your date of birth to enable the online right to work check. 

* Sponsorship is available for non UK applicants for these positions. 

For further information, please contact Dr Alice Horton alihor@mba.ac.uk 

Interviews will take place the week commencing 2^nd March 2026. 

You will only be contacted if you are shortlisted for interview.