Research Project Support Officer in Marine Conservation Science

Applications are invited for a full-time, fixed-term Research Project Support Officer in Marine Conservation Science position with Bangor University, working as part of a small team providing independent science research and advice to the Isle of Man Government regarding sustainable management of their Territorial Seas.

The postholder will be based full-time in the Isle of Man at the Department of Environment, Food and Agriculture (DEFA). They will work within a small on-island team of Bangor University scientists, reporting directly to the scientific lead Dr Isobel Bloor, supported by the project lead Prof Stuart Jenkins and other academics based at Bangor University. The post-holder will contribute to the successful long-term relationship that has been forged between scientists, marine stakeholders and the Isle of Man Government since 2007.

The postholder will contribute to existing research and survey programmes focussed on the extensive network of Manx Marine Nature Reserves (https://www.gov.im/MNR). This network includes Port Erin Bay MNR which has been closed to mobile gear fishing since 1989 and Ramsey Bay MNR which features a designated Fisheries Management Zone. A primary focus of the role will be to support the establishment of a continuous marine benthic monitoring programme, both inside the MNRs and in the wider territorial sea as required, employing a range of methods which may include video mapping and benthic sampling. The post-holder will contribute to the generation of georeferenced habitat maps and species distribution data as well as investigating the distribution and ecology of key habitats including seagrass, maerl, Modiolus reefs and offshore mud. The role will also involve providing data and evidence-based advice for the development of MNR management plans and on the impacts of marine developments (e.g. wind farms) to support effective and sustainable marine conservation management. Where appropriate there may be an opportunity for the post-holder to register for a PhD to be undertaken alongside the responsibilities of the role.

The successful candidate will have a degree in the field of marine science or related area OR equivalent experience, and a desire to be part of a successful team delivering world class science research and advice to enable sustainable management of coastal seas.

Successful candidates must be capable of passing an ENG1 sea-going medical and Sea Survival course, be physically fit and able to work at sea on a variety of vessels including during potentially less favourable sea conditions. A current clean, valid driving licence is required.

The postholder will be an employee of Bangor University and hence have the support of a highly active research group within the School of Ocean Sciences but will be resident full-time in the Isle of Man and therefore qualify for Isle of Man tax rates.

The successful candidate will be expected to commence on 1 August 2026 or as soon as possible thereafter and the post is available up to the end of August 2030.

Please click 'Apply’ button above to be redirected to our application page. However, in cases of access issues due to disability, paper application forms are available by telephoning 01248 383865.

The closing date for applications is 5th June 2026. Shortlisted candidates must be available for interview at the end of June.

Informal enquiries can be made to Prof. Stuart Jenkins 00 44 (0) 1248 382896 or s.jenkins@bangor.ac.uk.

Committed To Equal Opportunities

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