Description
Field Research Scientist
Billett Section - Edinburgh
We are looking for an experienced, enthusiastic and committed field research scientist to work at CEH Edinburgh with scientists involved in multi-disciplinary field research within the Billett Section.
The primary roles of this post will be to:
- Work within a team of field research scientists operating three major fixed field sites in the proximity of CEH Edinburgh.
- Routinely check/calibrate/repair/troubleshoot a wide range of atmospheric gas monitoring instrumentation.
- Make atmospheric greenhouse gas, plant and soil water related measurements at Whim Moss.
- Manage long-term data sets including a nalysis, quality control and interpretation of atmospheric gas monitoring and greenhouse gas flux data.
- Contribute to the production of reports and scientific papers.
Main Duties
The post will be with the Billett Section at CEH Edinburgh. The focus of the role is to deliver field-based research. This includes supporting the day to day operation of three major fixed, local field sites.
Specifically:
- Maintenance of instrumentation, data capture equipment and software;
- Routine instrument checks;
- Assistance with field sampling;
- Field related experiments;
- Installation of new sampling equipment and infrastructure;
- Data management of long-term experimental data sets.
- Chemical analysis of soil water and passive ammonia samplers using an Ion chromatograph and AMFIA instrumentation.
Appropriate on-going training will be provided in a number of areas to assist the appointed researcher to develop cutting edge and transferable research skills to support career progression. These include training in the operation of a range of atmospheric monitoring instrumentation, trace gas flux measurement techniques, and data acquisition and management of large long-term data sets.
Skills Required
- This is a research-based post focused on field instrumentation and measurements.
- Candidates will be expected to have a BSc. degree in Physical/Environmental Sciences and some project based experience of quantitative scientific work in a university or research environment with a strong field component.
- Existing knowledge of atmospheric gas monitoring instrumentation and techniques would be an advantage, as would data capture techniques and handling/management of large long-term instrument monitoring, experimental data sets. Experience in ion chromatography or AMFIA instrumentation would also be an advantage.
- The research-based nature of the post means the role would be ideally suited to someone with an aptitude for solving complex problems, self-motivated, enthusiasm for the subject and a willingness to take on responsibility.
- The ability to work alone and as an integrated member of the field research group is essential.
- The ability and willingness to work extensively in the field, often in adverse weather conditions and at field sites inaccessible by road and a full driving license is essential.
- The post will involve some heavy manual handling and periodic working at heights.
In addition to managing the experimental work, an important part of the job will be to maintain communications with senior staff and to work around any problems encountered. Therefore, the applicant is required to have excellent communication skills and the ability to work on their own initiative and troubleshoot. You will be working in collaboration with other scientists so will need a flexible attitude, a strong teamwork ethic and the ability to meet deadlines.
Applications are handled by the RCUK Shared Services Centre; to apply please visit our job board on our website and complete an online application. Applicants who would like to receive this advert in an alternative format (eg large print, Braille, audio or hard copy), or who are unable to apply online should contact us by telephone, Please quote reference number IRC80509.
Closing Date: 8 February 2013
Interview Date: 12 March 2013