Post Doctoral Research Associate

Salary Range £38,784 - £47,389 per annum (Incremental progression). Grade 7 

Fixed Term until 31^st March 2029 

The Opportunity

An exciting opportunity has arisen to join the School of Life Sciences as a Postdoctoral Research Associate on a project aimed at improving the evidence base for rare and understudied bat species. This role forms part of a collaborative, multi-partner research project involving Natural England, the Bat Conservation Trust, Vincent Wildlife Trust and local bat groups, as part of Natural England’s Species Recovery Programme. 

The successful candidate will play a central role in delivering field and analytical components of the project, including hibernation and maternity roost monitoring; acoustic data collection and processing; the integration of environmental and roost‑level datasets utilising GIS and earth observation data; and statistical modelling. They will work closely with the project’s lead researchers, external partners, and volunteer networks to coordinate fieldwork, manage data, and contribute to high-quality research outputs. 

The successful candidate will hold a PhD in ecology or related field, and have strong quantitative and analytical skills, with experience in some, but not necessarily all, of the following areas: acoustic monitoring, ecological fieldwork, spatial & statistical data analysis, bat ecology, or closely related area. The role would suit an ambitious early career researcher who is keen to develop expertise in applied conservation science, species recovery, and collaborative research. 

The Benefits

The University recognises that its success depends upon the contribution and dedication of its talented staff. In return, we have a competitive benefits package available, including:  

• Competitive rate of pay with annual increments within the grade (Keele Spine)
• Generous annual leave entitlement with opportunities to purchase additional leave  
• Excellent staff pension scheme   
• Access to continued personal, professional and career development   
• On site ‘outstanding’ nursery    
• Discounted health & fitness facilities on site  
• Cycle to work scheme (subject to eligibility)

Please note that the starting salary will typically be at the bottom of the pay scale shown above

The University is committed to operating flexible working practices wherever possible. 

The University

Keele University is renowned for its exciting approach to higher education, innovative research, beautiful campus, strong community spirit and excellent student experience. With a turnover in excess of £170 million, over 15,000 students and a total staff of approximately 2000, the University provides high quality teaching across a wide range of academic and vocational subjects and promotes world-class research. Further information can be found at https://www.keele.ac.uk/about/

Keele University values equity and diversity across our workforce and to ensuring our staff community is reflective of the diversity of our student population. In support of these commitments the University welcomes applications from individuals of Black, Asian and ethnic minority backgrounds for all roles.

Please note this appointment is subject to medical clearance by the University’s Occupational Health provider.

How to Apply

To apply online for this vacancy and for full post details and copies of job descriptions, please click on the 'Apply' button above. 

Keele University employees wishing to apply should login to Employee Self Service and click on the 'View current vacancies' link.

Informal enquiries may be addressed to Christian Devenish (c.devenish@keele.ac.uk). Applications to this address will not be accepted. 

Closing Date: 13^th September 2026

Interviews will be held on: 28^th September 2026

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